Faith & Folktales

  
Brenda was raised and continues to be active in the Lutheran tradition (ELCiC) of her family.  Bible stories and fairy tales were at the heart of stories read and told to her from an early age.  One of her best loved personal faith stories occurred at the tender age of 4 years, when the family was gathered together for Thanksgiving.  As the adults were busy cleaning up after the meal, Brenda was eager to help and it was suggested she could get her new broom and sweep up the kitchen floor.  The trouble was, the child-sized broom was in the bedroom closet…way at the back…in a dark corner.  She ventured over a couple of times mustering up the courage to step into the darkness and sidestep whatever closet creature lurked just waiting for a delicious little girl.  In tears, Brenda went back to the kitchen to enlist the help of an adult.  Her Aunt, taking her on her knee, patiently explained that dark corners are not to be feared because God is everywhere and God would protect her.  Brenda was sent back to the bedroom closet to face her fears, where they heard her exclaim as she opened the door, “God, hand me the broom!” 

 

 

Philip Pullman said in his 1996 Carnegie Medal acceptance speech, “‘Thou shalt not’ is soon forgotten, but ‘Once upon a time’ lasts forever.”  Inspired by Bible stories and lessons, Brenda links folktales and faith to discover inner truths at the heart of the story.  Journey with her to fire up your imagination and senses and come willing to participate by sharing your own opinions and personal faith stories.

Folktales and Faith is a one-hour story and study program suited to Women’s,  Men’s and Youth study groups, and may be adapted as needed.

The Hamilton Niagara ELW Conference and the Fellowship of the Least Coin Conference have been delighted with their programs, Walk by Faith and The Peacemakers.

 

 


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