I’m excited to bring you updates on the Faith-Filled Families: Christian Practices for Abundant Parenting (FfF) initiative. We are committed to enrich religious education in church preschools and congregations by equipping teachers and parents/guardians with Christian practices for faithful living in daily life.
In the early spring, I embarked on a mission to visit churches interested in partnering with us on this grant. I traveled from Havrede Grace, Maryland to Alexandria, Virginia, engaging with preschool program directors and clergy to share the vision of FfF.
- In April, we hosted a luncheon for preschool directors and clergy. We presented
the initiative goals, fostered connections, and explored potential collaborations. Every visiting team said, “Yes!” - To date, eleven diverse church-school locations have committed to join FfF.
- Thanks to the expertise of our Research Consultant, Dr. Cory Irwin (MDiv ‘24) we have developed instruments for site visit data collection.
- Videographer, RJ Stevenson, is documenting the project’s 5-year journey. He began by interviewing Seminary families about nurturing their children’s faith, and our faculty advisors Dr. Lisa Kimball and Dr. Rode Molla.
- Dr. Missiouri McPhee, our Project Coordinator, and I submitted a proposal for supplemental funding to the Lilly Endowment Inc. I am thrilled that we have been awarded an additional $250,000 to implement FfF.
Looking ahead, on August 29th preschool directors will gather for the inaugural FfF Directors’ Cohort meeting. These cohorts will serve as safe spaces for directors to exchange experiences, receive resources for nurturing children’s spirituality, and offer mutual support to each other on this journey. We are committed to creating an environment where knowledge and support can flourish.
– Donna Sweeting (MA ‘22)
Project Director, Faith-filled Families