Story-Shaped Faith: Reimagining Discipleship Through Story and Play

Discipling a multigenerational church, especially helping young people engage meaningfully in theology, has long concerned me. I want them not only to learn theological truths but also to be transformed as they understand God and deepen their relationship with Him. This has led me to consider how theology can become a lived process of spiritual formation, beyond knowledge transfer, in a church whose generations learn, communicate, and practice faith differently. I have also reconsidered storytelling’s role in theological reflection. Stories can do more than communicate established truths: they can help people encounter God, interpret their experiences, and deepen their understanding of Him. To bring this into disciple-ship, I began developing a game that makes biblical narratives accessible, engaging, and less intimidating to the next generation. This article explores how narratives can foster theological reflection and discipleship, particularly among young people. It shows how stories, when approached intentionally and creatively, can open new ways to engage biblical narratives and support an engaging, transformative discipleship process.

Jerome S. Cepeda is the lead pastor of a Lighthouse Christian Community church in Sta. Rosa, faithfully shepherding a growing and diverse congregation. Before entering full-time ministry, he worked as a registered nurse, an experience that shaped his compassion and care for people. He later earned a Master’s Degree in Biblical Studies from SUM Bible College and Theological Seminary in California and is currently pursuing a PhD in Orality at AGST. Passionate about discipleship and community, Jerome dedicates his life to guiding families, equipping believers, and fostering a church environment where transformation and genuine relationships thrive.

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