GABBY BRANDNER
Gabby Brandner serves as the Children’s Minister at Central Church of Christ in Amarillo, Texas. She has a heart for helping children hear the voice of God and experience the transformative power of the Holy Spirit. Her areas of interest include spiritual formation, children’s spirituality, and strengthening the unity of the global Church. She aspires to advocate for the spiritual capabilities of children and the role they play in the faith congregation, as well as aid ministers and leaders in how to best engage children spiritually.
Her current research topics include the intersection of children’s spirituality and trauma, the implications of the imago Dei on children’s role in the congregation, and the adaption of various spiritual disciplines and practices to meet the various developmental needs of children.
Gabby was born and raised in Cincinnati, OH. She attended Lipscomb University in Nashville, TN, where she double majored in Children's Ministry and Theology & Ministry, with minors in Greek and Missions. She has a heart for travel and loves exploring new places, both internationally and locally. She enjoys baking, roller skating, reading, and trying to find the best coffee shops in her area.
A FAVORITE INTERGENERATIONAL MEMORY/EXPERIENCE: I had the privilege of leading an intergenerational group through the practice of praying in color. During this time, I was able to witness each age learning from those around them and growing in the practice together. The children learned new names of God and intricate patterns and designs from the adults, and the adults learned the art of playfulness and simplicity from the children. Although I did not guide them to, many of the participants began to color together, initiating conversations about the names of God they were praying over, what the names indicated to them, and why various artistic elements were chosen. This was a clear example to me of the beauty of each generation learning and growing together through community and shared practices.
WHY DO YOU BELIEVE INTERGENERATIONAL MINISTRY IS VITAL TO THE LIFE OF THE CHURCH?: Intergenerational ministry fosters relationships that demonstrate the Kingdom of God. Because we are all made in the image of God, our intergenerational relationships teach us more about the character of God that we see through those around us. Intergenerational relationships are also vital to learning new ways to connect with our Creator.