Melanie Cave interviews Anglican priest and family ministry consultant Gail Adcock about the theology and practice of play in church. They explore how play appears in scripture and Jesus’ interactions, the difference between being childlike and childish, and how play can be a spiritual discipline that fosters connection, emotional expression, and wonder.
The episode also covers practical ideas and barriers: sensory activities, storytelling, games and quizzes, intergenerational approaches, adapting church spaces, and leader training. Listeners are offered simple, tested ways to include play in gatherings and encouraged to trust the Spirit as play deepens faith and community.
Explore how play can transform church environments, making faith more accessible, participatory, and joyful for all ages. Gail Adcock shares practical and theological insights on weaving play into church life, discipleship, and intergenerational ministry.
highlights
- Why play belongs in Christian faith and formation
- The difference between being childish and being childlike
- How Jesus models joy, creativity, and openness
- Ways play can deepen teaching and learning
- Practical ideas for churches with limited space or traditional seating
- How playful environments build belonging across generations
- Why joy and laughter matter for spiritual health
Chapters
00:00 — Introduction: why play matters in church
00:32 — Meet Gail Adcock and the theme of play as a spiritual discipline 01:16 — Is there play in the Bible?
05:58 — Childish vs. childlike faith
10:24 — Why play helps adults learn
15:20 — Godly Play and open responses to scripture
20:28 — Holding structure and openness together
24:26 — Different kinds of play: stories, games, senses, and quizzes
29:23 — Bringing play into church buildings and traditional spaces
35:00 — Using games as a vehicle for deeper reflection
40:10 — Why theological training needs more play and interaction
44:43 — Adults play too: hobbies, Lego, and community
47:46 — Play, wellbeing, and church as a gathering place
50:26 — Final reflections: play more, embrace joy
Key takeaways
Play is not a distraction from faith formation — it can be a meaningful way to encounter God, ask questions, and build community. The episode argues that churches can become more welcoming and effective when they make room for play, reflection, and participation.
Resources
Roots for Churches: https://rootsforchurches.com
Gail Adcock’s article on the theology of play https://www.rootsontheweb.com/worship-and-learning-support/articles/playful-faith
Ministry Essentials Training https://childrensministrynetwork.org/ministry-essentials/
