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Mess Makes Meaning
Caring for young children's spirituality is a delicate balance and can often be made more difficult when we grown-ups don't care for ourselves. Struggling through religious or church related trauma or even feelings of inadequacy when it comes to answering our children's big questions. At Mess Makes Meaning we are here to equip the parents/caregivers to remind them and their children they are deeply loved by interviewing some guests who are professionals in this vital work. With relatable humor from hosts and guests alike, this podcast is for you and created by Godly Play®
Mess Makes Meaning
Play with Rev. Dr. Lakisha Lockhart
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In this joyful and thought-provoking episode of Mess Makes Meaning, we are joined by Rev. Dr. Lakisha R. Lockhart—mother, wife, educator, theologian, consultant, advocate, and self-proclaimed coolest auntie around. As Assistant Professor of Christian Education at Union Presbyterian Seminary and Executive Secretary of the Religious Education Association, Lakisha brings a vibrant perspective to faith formation that embraces creativity, movement, play, and the wisdom of the body.
Together, we explore the often-overlooked importance of play in the lives of children and adults alike. Lakisha invites us to reconsider play not as a luxury or distraction, but as an essential part of learning, growth, spiritual development, and human flourishing. Drawing from her work in Christian education, Womanist theology, and creative arts, she shares how play creates space for curiosity, imagination, connection, and deeper engagement with both faith and community.
Throughout our conversation, Lakisha challenges us to honor play as the important work of childhood while also recognizing our own need for joy, movement, and creativity as adults. She offers practical insights into how families, educators, and faith communities can create environments where wonder and exploration are welcomed and encouraged.
Whether you're a parent, caregiver, educator, or faith leader, this episode is a refreshing reminder that play is not something we outgrow—it is a vital part of what helps us learn, connect, heal, and thrive. Join us as we rediscover the sacred gift of play and its transformative role in nurturing the whole person.