Using Storytelling in Christian Formation and Education

Stories have always been central to how faith is formed, shared, and sustained across generations. In this interactive workshop, Paul Tillman, doctoral candidate in Spiritual Formation at Wesley Seminary, Indiana Wesleyan University, will explore how storytelling can enrich Christian education and discipleship. Participants will engage in participatory learning through storytelling, lectio divina, and the art of the St. John’s Bible while examining the theological, historical, and social-scientific foundations of storytelling as a formative practice. The workshop will also provide dedicated group time for catechists, educators and curriculum writers to develop/adapt a lesson of their choice using storytelling principles. Designed especially for Christian educators, this workshop offers practical tools for fostering deeper engagement, connection, and faith formation in learning communities.

• As this workshop is part of doctoral research, participants are required to sign a participation consent form, complete pre-workshop survey, and a post-workshop interview.
• Please bring a lesson (new or existing) that you would like to workshop as part of this experience.
• The suggested donation of $10 is to cover lunch.

Schedule

• Friday, Oct. 9
  • 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm – Introductions and Foundations
• Saturday, Oct. 10
  • 9:00 am – 11:15 – Experiencing Formation Through Storytelling and How To (Key Points for Building, Adapting, and Teaching with Storytelling)
  • 11:30 am – 12:30 pm – Prayer with the Benedictine Community and Lunch
  • 12:45 pm – 5:00 pm – Workshopping Lessons, Presentations, and Debrief