Chaplain’s Corner, September Issue

Dear Parents,

It is a blessing indeed to serve as your child’s school chaplain at St. Mark’s. I’ve been an Episcopal priest for 21 years, with most of my ministry placements involving children’s formation at the heart. I met and married my husband, Nathan, also a priest, while at seminary. We’re just about empty-nesters, and have raised two children who miraculously still like church!

I have been formed in two children’s formation programs in particular: Catechesis of the Good Shepherd and Godly Play. Both have an emphasis on the Holy Spirit being the teacher, with the lead adult mindful of her role as the one who lifts up each holy story, and helps the child fall more in love with God.

Weekly school chapel for the pre-K’s and 3’s will begin on Wednesday, September 10, at 9:30am, in the main church sanctuary (two big doors, first building on left as you drive into the parking lot). I encourage you to attend, either sitting with your child (give your child’s teacher a heads up), or keeping out of sight from your child (just creep in). You know best what will work.

The last Sunday of the month, we will invite to the front all children who are celebrating a birthday that month for a special prayer and blessing.

If you have children younger than those age groups, I will be leading the younger ages for a very brief, weekly visit with quiet Godly time in Grace Chapel (at the end of the church/adult bathroom hallway). Please confirm with your child’s teacher about the day and time.

Finally, extended care Godly Play will also begin that same week on Thursdays at 2:15pm. It’s a chance to think more about the Bible story and respond with art or further work (Godly play) with the material. It might be hard for the child to say “what they learned.” Think of it more like a child’s spiritual retreat. They will offer reflections on their Godly play often at the most unexpected times.

If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact me at kelly@stmarksaustin.org.