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.

• 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?

Rev. Dr. Tanya Campen has over 20 years of experience as a Christian Educator, Youth Director, and Minister to Children and Families in the local church. She has taught courses, webinars, and workshops for ministry leaders in Christian Education, Faith Formation, Intergenerational Ministries, Children’s Spirituality, and Youth Faith Development. She writes regularly on ways church leaders can help individuals in their communities recognize and respond to God’s grace and love, making a difference in the world around them. Tanya’s gifts of curiosity and wondering help her ask big questions as those she is coaching discern their best possibilities and next steps. Tanya has served churches large and small, rural and urban. She has also worked for Discipleship Ministries, an agency of the United Methodist Church.