Shaffer, who has written four books on the topic, teaches concepts such as forgiveness in his clown costume by using a combination of silence and magic. He passes out paper hearts soiled by dirt. He motions for the congregation to crumple them and throw them into the aisle. The wadded up hearts are collected and tossed into a garbage can that erupts in smoke. Shaffer said the act works for multiple faiths.
Words are very divisive in society, in politics, in religion.
With this ministry, the children are involved. They're more open. They're going to comprehend. I felt like I belonged. When a preacher preaches, it just goes over my head.