Welcoming Children: A Practical Theology of Childhood

by Joyce Ann Mercer

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...

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0827242514
• ISBN13: 9780827242517
• Release Date: November 2005
• Publisher: Chalice Press
• Length: 308 Pages
• Weight: 1.10 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.8" x 8.9" x 6.0"

Customer Reviews

Welcoming Children

This is an excellant book offering new ways of thinking about children in the world and in our worship. It is a great study of the factors children face in a consumer driven world and how the church has fallen prey to the same issues. It is an excellant critical look at how we include children in church and what we can do better.

Theological discussion of children.

Joyce Ann Mercer has done a great job integrating practical theology with the church's ministry to children. The church needs more books that integrates theology with children. I know that many of principles and critiques that Mercer has presented in this book I have taken to heart. I think that she has presented herself and her material very well. Although I do not necessarily agree with everything in the book, I do agree with the principles calling for the church to purposefully examine their approach to children as being valuable in God's sight. I recommend this book for anyone who is working in children's ministry to be able to evaluate their understanding of theology in light of children's ministry.