Storytelling

Jane Butcher

Are you sitting comfortably? Then I’ll begin. Many adults at some point in their adult life will have embarked upon the world of storytelling, maybe to their own children, nieces, nephews or Godchildren. Many children love to listen to stories and long to hear their favourites over and over again—correcting the reader if a word is missed out or a sentence or two skipped in the interest of time.

Children are able to take themselves right into a story seemingly with great ease. As adults, we can help bring the story to life. We may be slightly more reserved but maybe just occasionally (if no one else is around!) we may do the character voices, sing the little songs. Children revel in the chance to be transported into the story in every detail.

But are we able to bring the Bible stories to life in the same way? Having been involved in church-based children’s ministry for a number of years, I have had the opportunity to spend time talking first hand with children about their thoughts and opinions. Recently, talking to a group of older primary aged children, I asked how often they would say they read their Bible. After a long pause, the responses ranged from ‘quite often’ to ‘it doesn’t really grab me’ and more in between. In response to the follow-up question ‘What is your favourite story in the Bible’, there was no delay—in fact the volume level raised significantly as they began to shout out their favourites: David and Goliath, Noah, Jonah and many others. Suddenly the book that ‘didn’t grab them’ seemed to leap to life. They then took the conversation on to another level: ‘I love the bit about…’

The level of excitement became apparent about the stories they had heard that had a special place in their heart. Many times I have had the privilege of seeing a child’s eyes light up as the title of the Bible story for that day is read out. Many times I have heard the precious sounds of pre-school voices calling out, ’I know this one, I know this one.’

As children’s leaders, teachers, crèche leaders, clergy, anyone working with children, we have an amazing opportunity to share with children the stories from the Bible. These stories are such ‘treasures’ that will not only interest children but offer so much more. These stories are captivating, inspiring, create a sense of awe and wonder… stories that can make a difference in their lives. What a privilege to be the people who can invest into the lives of children in this way.

To give more ideas for doing this, do take a look at the ‘Story Book’ section at www.barnabasforchildren.org.uk.

Or take a look at the range of Barnabas books on offer...
Stories to Read Aloud by Patrick Coghlan
Parable Fun for Little Ones by Renita Boyle
And many more found by clicking on the ‘books and resources’ tab at www.barnabasinchurches.org.uk (or see here).

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