Backyard to the Universe
Small Group Ministries
Spiritual Development
Opening Words/Lighting the candle/chalice
Pets and children often sense whether we are calm and approachable, or irritated and unapproachable, even without our speaking. This relates to our sense of spiritual well-being and places the responsibility on us to be attentive to our own spiritual needs. How and the degree to which these needs are addressed will have an impact on those around us.
Check-in:How are things going for you?
Topic/Activity
Just as adults and children are at different developmental stages for cognitive, physical and social development, adults and children are at differing levels in faith development. Spiritual development is a lifelong process – lifespan faith development.
Select a ‘sacred topic’ -- like god. Complete the statements:
When I was a child, I believed that God ……… Now my concept of God …………………
Share a talk that you had with a child about a ‘sacred topic’ – like god, prayer, death, beginnings. How much information about our own beliefs do we include in talking with children?
Spiritual practices enhance spiritual growth. What are your spiritual practices?
How do you use spiritual practices with children? Or do you include children in your practices
Have your children developed spiritual practices of their own?
Closing: “How Can We Know What God Is?” Suggestion: multiple voices.
| I have seen a rainbow arching against a stormy sky | so I know what promise is |
| I have held a newborn baby | so I know what a miracle is |
| I have seen a sunrise over the desert | so I know what glory is |
| I have heard the ocean waves crash on a rocky shore | so I know what power is |
| I have suffered the death of loved ones | so I know what mystery is |
| I have seen a flame-colored autumn hillside | so I know what beauty is |
| My children have brought me breakfast in bed | so I know what love is |
| I have looked out into the starry night sky | so I know what infinity is |
| I have broken a promise and been forgiven | so I know what compassion is |
| I have felt my heart flooded with peace, when anger | |
| has drained away | so I know what grace is |
| I have known all these things | so I think I know what God is. |
| Author unknown, From We Believe, p.73 | |
Likes and Wishes: How was the session for you?
Zidowecki, January 2006