Attitudes and assumptions of children's ministry experts concerning cultural relevancy

Abstract

Contributors to children's ministry produce many resources that are consumed by local congregations, determining the direction of their evangelism and discipleship with children. Chapter 1 describes the purpose of this research which was to investigate the attitudes and assumptions of significant contributors to children's ministry towards cultural relevancy as a determining factor for ministry development.

Chapter 2 addresses the theological, historical, and educational bases for children's ministry. This chapter also gives attention to the current trends in children's ministry philosophy and methodology.

Chapter 3 provides a description of the research design and experience. The qualitative process is described as well as the data collection and analysis of the interview process.

Chapter 4 describes the findings from the data collection. Specific attention is given to the categories discovered while utilizing elements of the grounded theory approach to research.

Chapter 5 provides a summary of the conclusions drawn from the findings in response to the research questions. General findings included a strong theological foundation and a passionate desire to be culturally relevant as motivators for the work of the recognized contributors to children's ministry. ministry

KEY WORDS: Children's ministry, Theology of children, Developmentalism, Culture, Postmodernism, Church and Children