Welcoming Children: A Practical Theology of Childhood (Paperback) (ISBN-13: 9780827242517)

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 claims: 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.

Author: Joyce A. Mercer
ISBN-10: 0827242514
ISBN-13: 9780827242517
Publisher: Chalice Press
Language: English
Published: 11/01/2005
Pages: 308
Format: Paperback
Weight: 0.95lbs
Size: 6.00h x 8.90w x 0.80d

Review Citation(s):
Christian Century 03/07/2006 pg. 41