Recommended Reads for the Last Half of Summer

I’ve just come in from outside and I literally felt a slight change in the air. It’s now August, and half the summer is gone. We can resist it, but our thoughts start to turn to planning for fall, especially for those involved with children’s and youth ministry.

Whether or not you’re sliding into that mode, here are some treasures I’ve found that can help to recalibrate your approach to ministry with your kids. Hopefully they will inspire you to think in big picture terms about the journey you have the privilege of sharing with the younger people in your congregation. Happy reading!

100 Things Every Child Should Know before Confirmation by Rebecca Kirkpatrick
© 2015 Westminster John Knox Press
I came across this book by chance as I was preparing to lead a workshop on Confirmation in the Presbyterian Church in Canada. Rebecca is a minister in the PCUSA and has compiled a brilliant crib notes list of major stories and concepts that will lay the groundwork for young people to meaningfully participate in Confirmation. Filled to the brim with practical suggestions on how church programs and worship, as well as family, can help kids to learn and explore these important aspects of our faith.

Teaching – the sacred art: The Joy of Opening Minds & Hearts by Rev. Jane E. Vennard
© 2015 Skylight Paths Publishing (Walking Together, Finding the Way)
I stumbled across this book at a retreat in the bookstore (always a dangerous place for me) and as an educator was drawn to it immediately. We don’t always hold up the ministry of teaching as sacred, and as I continue to read it I’m enjoying hearing how others who teach in a variety of contexts reflect on their art. While many teachers included are working in secular environments, there is a deep spiritual undertone to the whole book. A great read to really contemplate the calling we have been given.

Helping our Children Grow in Faith by Robert J. Keeley
© 2008 Baker Books
I had the wonderful privilege of meeting Robert when he was the plenary speaker at a Synod meeting and then at the annual Worship Symposium a few years ago at Calvin College in Grand Rapids, MI. He has a wonderfully warm and gentle approach to children’s ministry that is also very practical and Spirit-filled. Chapter titles include Three-Dimensional Faith, the Church as Community, Jesus Values Children, Dwelling in the Mysteries, The Power of Story, Obedience and Faith, Worship and Creating a Child-Friendly Culture. Relevant topics for any church that are handled with wisdom and depth.

Listening to Children on the Spiritual Journey by Catherine Stonehouse & Scottie May
© 2010 Baker Academic
This book intrigued me and reminded me somewhat of Young Children in Worship in its focus on recognizing that children have a relationship with God from day one. They may not have the language to talk about it, but there is a purity to their faith that we can either nurture or stifle. Based in research carried out with children, it’s a fascinating read about how children’s faith is expressed and experienced and the role of teachers and leaders in the church to nurture what is already there. I need to re-read it soon.

God’s Big Table by Elizabeth F. Caldwell
© 2011 The Pilgrim Press
I’m a big Elizabeth Caldwell fan, having devoured her books Making a Home for Faith and Leaving Home with Faith. I have probably blogged about this one already, but it’s worth mentioning again because it is so relevant. We can not pretend that we live in a bubble of sameness. Our kids have friends of different faiths and abilities, who may have parents who follow different religions and/or who are of the same gender. As educators, we have the privilege and challenge of providing a theological framework that increases understanding and respect. Elizabeth has brilliant suggestions for how congregations can provide welcome and education so that everyone can find a place.

As we enjoy these last weeks of summer, I hope that you find refreshment and a sense of renewal to your calling as a teacher or leader. You are needed for this Holy work! May you find that space where you can recharge and hear God’s voice, drawing from the deep well of the Spirit to fill you up again, ready for whatever lies ahead.