Welcoming Children: A Practical Theology of Childhood

by Joyce Ann Mercer

Welcoming Children develops a theology of childhood both from a theological perspective and from practical experience in children and youth ministry. The author draws insights from classic and modern feminist theologians, pastoral theologians, and contemporary cultural criticism to offer strategies for educational and liturgical practices in congregations that welcome children and contribute to their flourishing. Mercer outlines a feminist practical theology of childhood exploring five basic theological 1) children as gifts and parenting as a religious practice of stewardship; 2) welcoming those who care for children; 3) children as fully human; 4) children as part of God's purposes; and 5) acknowledging and transforming the sufferings of children. Her compelling argument reframes ministries with children as processes through which the church can become the foundation for children forming identities that resist consumerist culture and instead walk in the ways of Jesus.

Paperback

First published January 1, 2005

Reviews

[Kyle Riley]

Very thorough practical theology of children in the church. Went through the current problems of how we approach children’s ministry versus adult ministry, the history of such practices, and ways that our wisdom resources invite us to do it differently. Gave me a lot to think about. Would be interested to have an updated edition that talks about the changes in society and the church since 2004.

[Kari]

Read for my independent study. Would love for an update - think about how childhood and churches have changed since 2005!

[Carol]

A very challenging book about children and the church. I read it for my professional book group. Unfortunately, I was the only one who had finished it (it was Sept., a busy time for church educators), so I have a precis of each chapter. Much to think about, especially about the consumer culture in which we are raising and nurturing children today.

[Sharolyn]

So far, so good.