A new resource guide published yesterday by the Church of England suggests youth leaders should use the popular Harry Potter series of books and films as a launch pad for exploring Christian themes within church youth groups or Sunday schools.
The first six of J K Rowling’s Harry Potter books have sold more than 325 million copies in 200 countries. On the eve of the launch of the seventh book in the series, the resource – published by Church House Publishing - enables youth leaders to use extracts from the books and films to draw parallels with daily life and help young people discuss ‘big issues’.
By using scenes from the films in which the characters have to make tough decisions to prompt discussion within the group about moral choices, to extracts that demonstrate the power of words and their impact on others, the book is packed full of creative ideas for using the books as a basis for Christian teaching.
Other ideas in the book – written by Kent youth worker Owen Smith - include discussing stereotypes of what is ‘normal’ to examine how living a Christian life might cause a young person to stand out from their peers.
From theological concepts such as sacrifice and mercy, to everyday issues such as fears and boasting, each of the 12 sessions introduces a short clip from one of the Harry Potter films to provide a basis for that hour’s discussions and activities. The sessions include Bible verses that present the Christian perspective on the theme, and prayer activities drawing on the topic.
The Bishop of Oxford, the Rt Rev Bishop John Pritchard, commented: “The excitement and anticipation generated by the Harry Potter books show just what a great storyteller J K Rowling is.
