We the Storytellers provides examples and techniques for expressing deeply held beliefs through the oldest form of communication--stories. This book can be used as a resource on narrative theology for preachers, teachers, and storytellers.
Narrative theology is about peeling back the known to discover the unknown. Rather than pronouncing facts, it gives an opportunity for an "ah ha" experience. In a sermon it allows the hearer to grasp an element of truth through fiction or personal story--Jesus's method. And narrative theology is about revealing the relationship between God and God's people. What better way to look at relationships than through stories?
The book is written in two parts. Part 1 asks what is a sacred story and offers a number of possibilities. Part 2 is a workshop on acting, writing, and presentation skills aimed at those who are drawn to expressing themselves through stories.
The stories here are from Sally's own life experiences--the monologues from her imagination. Each story is related to a theme and is humorous, poignant, and human.
We the Storytellers will inspire and equip its readers to develop and perform their own sacred stories.
Sally Armour Wotton teaches courses on storytelling and story writing in the faculty of Trinity College, School of Divinity, University of Toronto, and is the author of Staging The Story.
"Wotton is the consumate storyteller. She offers us the gift of experience, grace, and compassion in this book. Sally has never shied away from imagination and courage, and this book opens doors to a future filled with hope that the stories will never die. We do, but they live on, giving future generations the royal jelly that will keep us from wars and small-mindedness. It is through stories that we have and will survive as human."
--Kelly Walker, Author, Growing Somewhere
"With an 'actor's toolkit' in hand, Sally sets the stage for all of us, opening up endless possibilities, leading us toward more vivid and meaningful contributions to our worship experience."
--Mark W. Ruhnke, Director of Music and Coordinator of Faith Formation at St. Andrew's United Church, Toronto
"Sally's book opens up the world of narrative theology, where story and Scripture intersect. Sally's stories will make you smile, weep, laugh, and groan. Above all, they will make you glad to be alive. And you will want to dance, act, shout, proclaim, and preach--for which she gives very practical guidelines. I look forward to applying her unique approach to narrative theology in the classroom and the pulpit."
--Maylanne Maybee, Principal, Centre for Christian Studies, Winnipeg
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