Papers by Stephen Stoscher
For the past century, the evangelical church has cycled through many different models regarding t... more For the past century, the evangelical church has cycled through many different models regarding the spiritual formation of children. While many of these models have been well intentioned, they have proven to be deficient in various ways, unintentionally causing many children to misunderstand God, become shallow in their beliefs, or grow skeptical of Christian faith and practice. Without sufficient attention to best practices in the spiritual formation of children, the church runs the risk of continuing to lead children into counterfeit beliefs, such as Moralistic Therapeutic Deism. This project argues that the performing arts, specifically music and theater, can deepen spiritual formation when used intentionally in children's ministry. These art forms bring this depth first in the act of truth-telling through music, activating all parts of the mind and body in ways that are impactful and memorable. Second, the implementation of storytelling, specifically through theatrical means, helps deepen a more complete understanding of Scripture as a whole, not only through its happy, light "storybook" moments, but also through the dark and hard parts of biblical history and the seemingly contradictory parts of Scripture. Finally, through soft, quiet leadership, the process of spiritual formation-which entails a desire to love God, to know Him, and to follow Him-can be facilitated through slow care and connection. This kind of inquisitive storytelling, facilitated through soft leadership and full body engagement, encourages young believers of Christ to lean into their love for Him, press on in their walk with Him, and as a result grow in their knowledge of Him. Pastor Doni Lilo, for helping guide me into the roles of children's ministry at my local church. I also am grateful to my Mom, my siblings, Gail Lilo, and others who showed me in different tangible ways how the arts of music and theater impact spiritual growth. Without their input, I would not have had such a love and involvement in the arts as I do now, and I definitely would not have been able to land on such a project as this. I would like to particularly thank Scottie May. In our two or so hour interview, my concept for the crux of this project truly solidified. I had already been so blessed by your written work, but being able to meet with you, hear your perspective, and glean from some of the wisdom that the Lord has grown in you over the years was truly a blessing to me. I doubt that I will ever forget that conversation. My professors in each of my departments also deserve a huge thank you. First, the professors and staff of the theater, Mark Lewis, Andy Mangin, Kailey Bell, and Heidi Birkey Elliott, who walked alongside me and taught me the importance of 'acting as revealing,' diligence (though Andy can attest I still struggled with punctuality near the end). Mark, the braid is really a novel, yet true concept. I want to thank Dr. Trotter from the Music department, not only for agreeing to be a second reader for this project, but also for exemplifying the courage to take steps beyond societal expectations in order to follow God's lead in being faithful to Him and His story. I also will always remember his prayer, that he would say at the end of choir for years: "Lift from our shoulders every burden that is not ours to bear." May that be ever true.
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Papers by Stephen Stoscher