| Current anthropological and theological conversation presents adulthood as the normative understanding of humanity, placing children as "other." History, theology, and praxis often ignore the presence, voice, and experience of children, sending the message to children that they do not matter and that their spiritual experiences will become informing, important, and noteworthy, when they grow up. This normative theological framework presents a negative and oppressive narrative that silences children and prohibits them from participating fully in creation. In response, this dissertation seeks an inclusive practical theology for ministry with children that creates a space where God and children together can provide insight that will shape the praxis of the future church and lead to transformative change in the faith community and the world.;Working through a hermeneutical method that moves from reflection to praxis via critical reflection, active listening, and interpretation for meaning and value, Experiencing God Together affirms every child's participation in the body of Christ and provides new insight for the church as we seek to be in ministry with children. This dissertation engages in critical conversation with theology, Scripture, social sciences, and religious education revealing children as meaning makers who are equipped and called to respond to God's active presence in their lives.;An extensive Qualitative Research study with twenty-eight children at two different sites provided much of the insight and wisdom revealed in this dissertation. Their narratives serve as the foundation for an intentional and transformational research methodology and faithful pedagogy that uncovered how the church can support children as they engage, recognize, claim, and respond to God's presence in their lives. The data collected in this project reveal eight essential tools for children as they make meaning in response to their experiences with the Holy. |
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