Best practices for Welcoming God’s Children in the new school year . . .

I’ve been on the road a lot this year, enjoying a variety of podcasts. The Splendid Table

had a recent episode about how to throw a successful dinner party. I anticipated

descriptions of complex recipes and elaborate table decor. The secret? Plan a simple

menu and share it with guests ahead of time. The Mel Robbins Podcast had a recent

episode about skincare. I anticipated expensive products and exhausting procedures.

The secret? Wash your face and moisturize every night. In today’s oversaturated world

of how-to videos, curated images and endless marketing, the advice is liberating–

thoughtful planning and consistent practices lead to fun parties and healthy skin. How

does this refreshing news relate to formation ministries? As a long-time formation

leader, I can affirm that thoughtful planning and consistent practices lead to vitality in

Christian formation. In theological language—faithful planning and practices allow the

Holy Spirit to move in and enliven a church community.

Introducing . . . Welcome Every Sunday! (welcomeeverysunday.org)

Christ Episcopal Church in Savannah, Georgia

As a child and adolescent, I experienced the spiritual enrichment of art-infused liturgy

and playing with parables. Until recently, I didn’t realize that I may have grown up during

a formation renaissance in the Episcopal Church. Now I recognize that many thought

leaders during the 1970s, 80s and early 90s were deeply committed to creative

formation endeavors rooted in our liturgical tradition.

As a priest and educator, I have naturally brought this love of creative and dynamic

formation to the parishes I have served. Involving all ages in liturgical experiences and

connecting the generations in creative programs were vital experiences in my own faith

formation and to my leadership over the years. The positive impact has been

undeniable– participation, vitality and growth in attendance for all ages, no matter the

size of the congregation. So how do thoughtful planning and consistent practices

present in a parish context?

● Careful study of the calendar (including school schedules, community events,

holidays, etc.)

● Careful study of present participants (ages, interests, participation patterns)

● Confident and courageous planning with an eye toward newcomers and growth

● Focused energy, mindful of limitations (in staff, money, physical plant, volunteers)

● Inclusion all ages (as volunteers and participants)

● Supportive curricula

● Strong, continuous pastoral relationships (with volunteers and participants)

● Energetic and clear communication

● Continuous listening, observing and praying

All equally important.I have created a website to share with anyone on this path. This website is especially

helpful for volunteer leaders who are working with children in smaller churches or those

who are new to leadership, no matter the size of the congregation.

Welcomeeverysunday.org includes detailed, varied lesson plans for ministry with

children; I prefer to call them “gathering plans.” The resources reflect the church

seasons, creating a sacred experience for the organic gathering of children that is

natural to churches. The activities and materials are varied to engage different

participants and contexts. Most of the games and crafts are curated from free internet

sources– the offerings of other thoughtful formation leaders. However, I have done the

theological legwork of tying the activities to a story and season, including the entire

script for the gathering.

I will continue to add to the website, hoping to reinforce the understanding that every

Sunday is an opportunity to host an amazing party for the Holy Spirit. So wash those

faces, plan those menus and welcome God’s children (of all ages), every Sunday.