Holy Work with Children: Making Meaning Together (Horizons in Religious Education)

Children are theologians with the ability to recognize and respond to God's presence in their lives. Listening to the stories of children helps us to understand how children make meaning out of God's presence and reveals tools that children use as they claim their faith. With this knowledge, adults can then better promote and encourage children's spiritual growth. Offering a theology of childhood, Holy Work with Children values the child's role in the Body of Christ and God's transformative work. Dr. Campen invites readers to consider: -How does listening to children teach us about God and faith formation? -What wisdom and insight do children offer to all of us by how they seek understanding of God and God's presence in their lives? -How can we guide and support the children in our communities in this work? Drawing on direct research with children as they think theologically, this book extends both theological and educational research. Holy Work with Children offers practical examples for how congregational leaders, parents, and those who journey with children can encourage and guide them as they make theological meaning and discover ways to respond to God's grace and love making a difference in their communities and the world.

Rev. Dr. Tanya Marie Eustace Campen is an ordained deacon and currently serves as the Director of Intergenerational Discipleship for the Rio Texas Conference.

Tanya holds a doctorate of philosophy in Christian education and congregational studies from Garrett Evangelical Theological Seminary. Her research focus is children's spirituality. She has over 20 years of ministry and 10 years of teaching experience including previous appointments in the local church and at Discipleship Ministries (an agency of the UMC).

Tanya writes regularly on topics concerning children, families, and intergenerational ministry. Grounded in United Methodist theology, Tanya's ministry seeks to help all persons discover and live in response to God's grace and love.

When Tanya is not at work, she can be found spending time with her husband Ryan. their son (who they lovingly call "Thumper"), and their Portuguese Water Dog, Bela Esperanca (beautiful hope).

Tanya also spends a lot of her free time outside- experiencing God's beautiful creation. Running, cycling, and yoga help keep Tanya connected to God as well as personal meditation, prayer, and her time with beloved friends and family. Tanya has completed three marathons and a Bike MS 150 mile ride. Tanya believes that God is actively present in the lives of all people and enjoys discovering God in every life moment.