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Hey everyone! I'm Chris Hooton, thrilled to be attending the Children’s Spirituality Summit. I’ve missed attending since I presented a paper on parents as spiritual directors in 2012. I continue to mull over ways to turn that into a research project exploring how spiritual formation happens intergenerationally across cultures.

I'm all about nurturing young hearts in the ways of the Kingdom, whether it's through writing about spiritual formation or brewing up a mean cup of coffee as a barista for over 20 years. You might have heard of my podcast, Sydney Sloth's Bedtime Stories, where we dive into the magic of lectio divina for kids. And if you're into Godly Play, we're on the same wavelength! Let's chat about all things spiritual formation, and maybe sneak in a coffee talk too. Looking forward to connecting with you all!

I am ordained with the Assemblies of God and serve in a Charismatic Episcopal Church. My wife, Elaine is an administrative assistant at various churches. My daughter, Ella is an aspiring chef and my son, Foster is studying mechanical engineering at Michigan Tech.


I have a BA in Children's Ministry from North Central University and a Master's in Spiritual Formation and Leadership from Spring Arbor University.