Spiritual Formation of Children
Frankfurter and Firefly Party. The article headlines caught my eye in the religion section of my local newspaper. A local church was hosting a party for children that included grilled hotdogs, s'mores, games until dark and then a firefly-catching contest. The idea amused me as a creative and child-friendly activity. As I read on, my interest turned to disappointment. The article continued, "The event will be included in a second of three one-day Christian formation experiences. Children may attend the entire program or just the supper and contest, space is limited."1
The assumption that Christian formation can be summed up in a three-day experience or that any formation is as simple as food and games is a delusion. Suggesting that children need not attend all of the day's events gives question to the purpose and importance of each activity planned for the day. The very thought that Christian formation for children has a limited space is startling.
Spiritual formation has become a millennial buzzword in church ministry. As this newspaper article illustrates, words can be easily misused and misinterpreted without clear understanding of meaning and significance. Although spiritual formation is a ministry phrase of our day, the implication of spiritual formation is found in the Old Testament in God's law to Moses for the family and community structure for the Israelites.