•  
  •  
 

Abstract

This field note explores the use of Godly Play in a short-term mission context in Kitale, Kenya. It focuses on the author’s experience using this method to limit the temptation to impose one’s own theological and cultural interpretation when teaching Bible stories. While Godly Play emphasizes open-ended wondering, participants often hesitated to respond, reflecting familiarity with didactic learning environments. The study highlights how prior knowledge, language, and adult mediation influence theological engagement. It argues that pedagogy itself is culturally embedded and offers practical implications for cross-cultural ministry, including the need for cultural awareness, translator preparation, and realistic expectations for short-term formation.

Author Bio

Shannon Clarkson Rains, DMin – Shannon served in congregational children and family ministry for more than a decade before joining the faculty of Lubbock Christian University to teach a variety of courses in ministry and general education Bible. She is now an Associate Professor of Children’s Ministry and the Chair of Academic Affairs in the Smith College of Biblical Studies. In 2023, Shannon fulfilled a lifelong dream to visit Kenya to learn about missions and fell in love with East Africa. Each summer since, she has returned, often speaking on children’s ministry topics. Shannon earned a Doctor of Ministry degree from Abilene Christian University, focusing on spiritual formation. She lives in Lubbock, TX, with her husband, David, and her teenage and adult children.

Creative Commons License

Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.

Download

Share

COinS