I'm not that convinced by top down change, even if it is initiated by local clergy who could perhaps be seen as working from the bottom up: meristemweb.wordpress.com/2022/10/04/t...

This is Out of the Box which is a spin off from Godly Play but more portable. There are more Christian stories than those shown as there are several in development: outofthebox.org

Have you come across Godly Play and Out of the Box?

It's important to be critical of your own denomination materials as well. I do a lot of adaptation for my own context. Some publications advocate for this.

Prayer is action

Does layout affect this? I currently worship in a small church that often sits in a semicircle and chat before the service doesn't bother me (mostly happens at the door though). But if I am sitting in pews or rows I feel really irritated by people chatting or gossiping.

Really enjoyed reading it 😊

Sung evensong at Ely cathedral. I am not very musical so sat there absorbing the atmosphere and looking at the archways of infinite possibilities.

Intercessions (lay led) were very thoughtful and prayerful. I thanked her and she said she reads all the Bible readings very carefully then looks at different sets of intercessions before adapting. I just read the Bible readings and adapt David Adam! Interesting sermon about what is victory?

I told the Emmaus story using Out of the Box at two tiny rural churches. Very interesting discussions, especially when I asked "how would you symbolise Easter?"

A bit off the wall but would you consider Godly Play or Out of the Box? I find this works with all ages/backgrounds and people can respond to the open questions without judgement.

Thanks Jan

Thanks Lindsay. Planning to have a look at your blog when I have a moment 😊

I can see that... But feel there is sometimes a sub text that runs "if only this congregation were more Christian, this church would be transformed" which puts congregations on the defensive as they feel the new incumbent thinks they are totally responsible for the decline