Sunday School
We've never done it that way before!
A guide for assessing and strengthening your Sunday school ministry
Is Sunday school dead? Hardly! Though some may claim it is dying. It can be argued that
what began in 1870 in England as a way to educate poor and orphaned children on their one
day away from factory work is now in serious need of resuscitation and revitalization!
Before we prematurely plan the memorial service, a careful review of Sunday school's
purpose will be helpful.
The gospel calls us to teach and learn! While Jesus didn't take
attendance as children and adults gathered around him or call such gatherings "Sunday
school", his words and actions clearly teach that learning and faithfulness are
intertwined. Through baptism we are named and claimed as God's own. Our daily return to
baptism is a "post-it-note" reminder of who we are and how God wants us to live.
Sunday school is a place for children, youth and adults to hear the Bible story and to be
reminded of their baptismal identity. It is a place for us to sense our belonging as God's
children and to grow in the knowledge of God's love. It is a place where we use and
discover our gifts as we learn how to be Christian disciples.
There will likely be much about your current Sunday school program to
affirm and celebrate. The goal of this discernment process is not to reinvent what you
already do well. It is to strengthen your ministry offerings in a way that works best for
your context and needs.
This resource is designed to help you and your Christian
education planning team:
Logistics, Environment and Personnel
Content and Structure
Planning, Training and Evaluation
Steps to using this guide
Work through these steps as a planning team to breath new life into your existing
programming and to counter the notion that Sunday school is a dying ministry that has
outlived its usefulness for today's time and context.
How do we measure up?
A Tool to Assess Present Strengths and New
Opportunities
We're doing this well
We could do this better
We COULD do this!!!
Below are twenty statements you can use to evaluate your present Sunday School program. Complete this worksheet individually and share answers as a group.
Eight Approaches to Sunday School
A review of present Sunday school practice in congregations of the Evangelical Lutheran
Church in America reveals there are at least eight primary approaches to the way Sunday
school is structured. The defining lines for these approaches are not hard and fast and
congregations may draw from several models as they shape their program. It is helpful to
think of the approaches as a framework around which a variety of elements are used to
build a Sunday school that meets the needs of the individual, the congregation and the
community in which they live.
Traditional Approach
A healthy percentage of ELCA congregations offer what might be described as a
"tradional Sunday school program." However, traditional does not imply a program
that is archaic, boring or lacking in faith-shaping experiences. It refers to a basic
framework and content which, by its nature, is wide open to innovation. A traditional
Sunday school typically meets on Sunday morning for 45 minutes to one hour. Many
congregations set the tone for the day by beginning with a large group "gathering
time" that includes singing, prayer, announcements, and an activity related to a
particular theme (either tied to the lectionary or a special congregational emphasis such
as Global Mission or Hunger). Classes are closely group graded with one or two teachers.
Learning opportunities are usually also provided for junior and senior high youth as well
as for adults. With this basic picture in mind, add pieces like computer learning,
intergenerational learning events, special projects, inter-class friendly competitions,
innovative multi-sensory activities, and clear connections with worship and other
congregational activities, and soon this snapshot of a traditional approach does not look
so conventional.
Bethlehem Lutheran in Fairport, New York builds their thriving Sunday school around the traditional approach but several innovations have given this program a look of it's own. Each class is staffed with three teachers. While this means an added recruitment effort in the beginning, the elimination of "scrambling for last-minute substitutes" has been a much appreciated benefit. A class for the 2 1/2 year old begins in January of each year and there is a class for each age group including two adult learning options. One of the highlights of Bethlehem's program is the 30+ Senior High youth that come consistently on Sunday mornings. After a large group opening youth self-select from two learning offerings: a Bible study led by parents and a discussion group exploring current issues.
Lectionary-Based Approach
Congregations are utilizing a "lectionary based" approach to learning when all
of the children, youth and adults are experiencing age appropriate learning built on the
use of the same Bible story on the same day and when there are intentional connections
made with worship and ministry in daily life. The Revised Common Lectionary (RCL) is a
uniform 3-year cycle of scripture texts laid out to guide ELCA congregations and other
Christian denominations in the use of designated Old and New Testament lessons for weekly
worship and daily devotions. Use of the RCL provides a holistic approach to faith
formation that strongly connects the experience of the learning environment with the
worshiping community, other gatherings of Christians, the home and other contexts of daily
life. Usually this approach includes: an age-appropriate, interactive learning experience
based on a particular Biblical story; the intentional connection of this story and its
theme in worship; and the provision of materials to encourage personal reflection or home-
based faith conversation on the story and theme during the week. Limitations to this
approach include use of some Biblical texts that are difficult to teach small children (a
good curriculum will substitute an alternative text) and the reality that a number of
"favorite" old testament stories aren't a part of the three year cycle (a good
curriculum finds ways to incorporate these standard favorites). Note: this approach refers
more to content than structure; in other words, a lectionary based approach can work well
within the more traditional approach highlighted earlier.
Good Shepherd, Plover, WI chose the lectionary approach because of a desire to find "continuity between worship, learning and the liturgy of life." They wanted families to worship and to find a connecting theme that would feed conversations on the way home and through the week. Because of space limitations, adults hold their Sunday school classes in the Plover library and youth meet midweek. Primary grade classes begin each Sunday with a general assembly featuring music and storytelling led by mentors who model faith sharing. The storytelling sets the stage for what the children will explore in the classroom and hear again in worship. The Lords' Prayer, the Creed or some other part of the liturgy completes the large group time after which children move to their individual class settings. On occasion, just prior to reading the lessons, the worship leader will remind parents of the ways the children heard the Word in Sunday school and will encourage families to make the weekday connections.
Intergenerational Approach
Educational leaders from small-membership congregations sometimes share that
intergenerational learning is rarely an option for them. It's a way of life. For others,
however, intergenerational ministry takes a little more intentionality. America is an
age-segregated society in which extended families often live far away from each other,
parents sometimes spend more time in their daily commute than they do with their children,
and adults generally work with people of the same generation. These realities impel some
congregations to move from a segmented "silo" mentality to an appreciation for
generations learning, teaching and growing in faith together. Congregations incorporate
intergenerational learning in a variety of ways. The Total Family Sunday School developed
by Faith Inkubators (see resource listing on page xx) brings generations together weekly.
Other congregations have found that the rhythms of the church year provide a natural
opportunity for a cross generational monthly learning event. During the summer months when
attendance fluctuates, intergenerational learning can also be an effective and fun way to
avoid the Sunday school slump.
Trinity Lutheran Church, Vermillion, SD uses an innovative approach to intergenerational learning that includes age specific activities. One Sunday a month everyone involved in Christian education gathers for "Family Sunday School." The pastor sets the theme with a short engaging drama. The youngest children are invited up for a "children's sermon" where the theme is presented in ways they can understand. Then the total group divides into small groups with the stipulation that at least three generations must be represented in each group. One simple theme-based question is presented with sensitivity to the comprehension levels of the youngest children. Then the young children are dismissed for music and crafts. The remaining participants engage a new question with sensitivity to elementary age children. Following discussion these children leave for choir, leaving the adults for further discussion.
The rotational approach is based on the "learning center" concept popularized in the 70's, with 90's-style attention to multiple intelligences and faith development.
Rotational Approach
The rotational approach is based on the "learning center" concept popularized in
the 70's, with 90's-style attention to multiple intelligences and faith development.
Typically, six to eight Bible stories or themes are explored in depth each year. The same
Bible story is taught for several weeks depending on the number of "learning
centers"or "workshops" offered. The children rotate through a different
workshop each week; the teachers stay in the same workshop and teach the same lesson each
week of the rotation. Popular workshops include: drama, puppets, computers, music, Bible
skills and games, writing, cooking, crafts, global activities, and service projects. This
approach models a shift from a single format presentation to multi-sensory, multi-media
presentations as a way to speak relevantly to an audience that has been shaped by media.
It celebrates the unique and special gifts each workshop leader brings, eliminates
teacher-burn out, and the fitful panic of "Saturday night lesson planning" by
inviting workshop leaders to sign on for one rotation at a time and to plan one lesson
with only minor adjustments and improvements each subsequent week.
The people of St.Luke's, Park Ridge, IL rave about their rotational "Funday School" approach: "children want to come to Sunday school, adults are eager to provide leadership and everyone is learning about the Bible!" They offer six workshop modules that reinforce their educational goals: a) Drama which includes puppets, costumes, props and videos. b) King Solomon's Temple, a theme room in which children learn to use their Bibles through Bible games and other activities. c) A computer workshop using Bible software and a writing program. d) An art workshop for creating theme related crafts, and e) Lutherland, where children meet heroes of the faith such as Martin Luther, and f) A movie room complete with theater seats and a popcorn machine. St. Luke's uses three types of educational staff: coordinators who write the materials, teachers who agree to a six week commitment and shepherds who rotate with the children and provide one-on-one nurture and support.
Home and Family Approach
For a variety of reasons some congregations are just not able to offer a viable Sunday
school program. In places like these, several have adopted "home-schooling"
models by putting the privilege and responsibility of faith nurture back into the hands of
parents. Other congregations with viable Sunday school programs also find creative ways to
build "at home" components for learning and faith conversation. Congregations
support families in a variety of ways. Some churches prepare "take home" packs
from existing curriculum for various ages. Others simply provide a syllabus suggesting
core concepts parents may want to teach their child at a particular age. It is then up to
the parents to select books and other resources that will best match their family's style
of learning. Home-based Sunday school can also be done by clusters of families meeting in
the home for scripture, prayer and intergenerational learning activities. The term
"home-based" rarely implies that learning takes place independent of others. On
the contrary, a congregation using this approach needs to provide regular opportunities
for learners to gather.
At Holy Redeemer, San Jose, CA things had gotten to the point that Sunday school just wasn't working anymore. A parent meeting was held during which all the possible solutions to the struggles of this small membership congregation were considered. Would a mid-week option make a difference? Would clustering with other area Lutheran congregations be the answer? When they asked themselves "Whose job is it to bring children to faith?", the answer clearly came from the service of baptism. The congregation expressed a willingness to support their families by providing whatever materials were needed. One person agreed to be the coordinator and to put together a "home packet" geared to the individual child. Parents accept the responsibility of sitting down with their child for a minimum of one hour per week. A quarterly outing is planned for families to gather socially or to engage in a outreach project.
Concentrated Approach
Many congregations, faced with the reality that people are not willing or able to spend a
full Sunday morning at church, find they need to adjust their schedules. There is a
growing expectation for dynamic worship, quality Christian education, and invigorating
fellowship opportunities all packaged in a concentrated time frame. Congregations that use
a concentrated approach to Sunday school have carefully and prayerfully evaluated their
context-the lifestyle of their congregation and community and their mission as a people of
God. Elements of the concentrated approach typically include a "family centered"
worship service which lasts no longer than 30 minutes. Children and youth often take
active roles as worship leaders. What follows is a time for fellowship with shortened
Sunday school classes for all ages taking place afterwards. Congregations using this
format report that adults seem more willing to engage in adult learning because of this
concentrated approach. A traditional worship service usually follows. With only 30 minutes
to present a lesson, Sunday school teachers must be prompt, well prepared and willing to
streamline learning activities so key concepts rise to the top.
St. James Lutheran, San Leandro CA has been using this approach for several years as a way to serve a rapidly changing community comprised of young families with both parents working outside the home. The 9:00 am family worship service is geared toward the children but always holds elements to help parents in their role as faith nurturers. The style of this thirty minute service is informal utilizing a simple litany, joyful and easily sung songs, a short sermon delivered from the aisle, prayers around the font, and communion for all the baptized. Following the service, children and youth move to a thirty minute Sunday school class. Adults gather for informal conversation on current topics, the scripture lessons or parenting issues. St. James builds in an intentional time for fellowship following Sunday school to encourage connections with worshipers who gather for the second, more traditional service.
Midweek Approach
After exploring the needs of the congregation and community, many congregations are
turning to midweek ministry to augment, or in a few cases substitute for Sunday school.
Many children spend weekends with non-custodial parents making it difficult to participate
consistently in Sunday school. For some families, Sunday is the only time they are able to
spend time together. What makes this approach appealing is that the expanded time frame
used in a midweek format usually allows for recreation, a family meal and adult mentoring
through tutoring or skill-sharing. This holistic approach to Christian education is having
a far reaching effect on families and even in public schools. Anecdotal reports indicate
that teachers note a profound difference in children who consistently participate in
midweek ministry. Behavior, attitude and study skills often improve dramatically. Midweek
ministry is also proving to be one of the most strategic entry points for unchurched
families. Furthermore, as adults participate in leadership, meal preparation and tutoring,
children receive the rich blessing of a healthy intergenerational experience.
St. Paul Lutheran, Wilmington, NC considers their midweek program "Wednesdays Together" a supplement to Sunday school. They are finding some families worship on Sunday but choose instead to learn on Wednesdays to experience the more expanded format.
Winifred American Lutheran Church is a small rural congregation in Winifred, MT dealing with time and travel issues in a different way. Instead of a school on Sunday, an ecumenical after-school learning opportunity is offered Wednesday afternoons. This approach is reaching children who are not necessarily involved on Sunday and works well for ranch families traveling long distances.
Montessori Approach*
This approach is used by some congregations primarily in their pre-school and lower
elementary Sunday school classes. The classroom is set up to be a sacred space in which
the Bible story is shared with children in a way that invokes awe and wonder and is less
concerned with imparting Biblical knowledge. Children respond to the story through play
using simple figures to discover for themselves the lesson's meaning. This approach
reverses the traditional method where an active teacher instructs a passive class. From
the time the child leaves the parent, a pattern of activities based on structure of
worship are followed each week: preparation, the Word, response to the Word, preparation
for the Feast, the Feast, blessing and departure. Two adults are recommended for each
classroom, each with carefully defined responsibilities. Freedom is exemplified through
the choices a child makes during play.
Godly Play provides an important component for the Sunday school at Christ Lutheran, Blaine, MN. On Sunday morning, all ages between 3 years and 5th grade, gather for an opening patterned after the worship service that is happening simultaneously in the sanctuary. From there, the children disperse to their age specific classes where each room is set with an altar as focal point, a Christ candle, figures of the Holy family and materials for the lesson. Leaders say this approach works well because it is concrete and founded on repetition. The children learn that worship is a special time. Parents are invited to visit the classroom and on several occasions throughout the year, children attend worship as a class. Although the 4th and 5th grade classes do not use approach, the children, parents and teachers have asked that some elements be carried into the older classes such as the lighting of the Christ candle and the time of sharing and preparation for the meal.
In the Montessori Approach, the
classroom is set up as a sacred place in which the Bible story is shared with in a way
that involves awe and wonder and is less concerned
with imparting Biblical knowledge.
*Maria Montessori was an Italian educator and physician who pioneered a method of education for young children that promotes self motivation and auto-education. It suggests that a child will learn naturally in an environment containing materials such as "learning games" suited to a child's abilities and interests. The typical classroom in a Montessori school is filled with games, toys, household utensils, child size furniture, plants and animals cared for by the children. Godly Play developed by Jerome Berryman and The Catechesis of The Good Shepherd developed by Sofia Cavalletti are two innovative approaches to Christian education based on Montessori principals.
Nine Elements for Sunday School
Under each of the previously named approaches lies common elements that further shape a Sunday school ministry in a particular setting. The practice of ELCA congregations reveals a variety of elements that have been effective in enhancing faith formation through Sunday school. This listing is not exhaustive, but offers a helpful start focused on the basics. A brief description of each element follows with an illustration of how one congregation incorporates that particular element within its educational ministry.
Rally Day
Many congregations kick-off the beginning of their education year with
Rally Day. While the term seems old-fashioned, the way we commonly use it parallels the
church's mission: a time to celebrate (a congregational fair); to reach out and welcome
(special neighborhood invitational efforts); to renew relationships (a picnic or
breakfast); to commission (teacher installation); to learn and worship (an
intergenerational faith-stories event); and to orient and invite all on a faith journey
(commissioning during worship). There are countless ideas for making this
"kick-off" time memorable, meaningful and fun, but it doesn't all have to happen
on one day. Some congregations hold mini-Rally days throughout the year such as a winter
mid-year rejuvenation event, a spring fling or a Reformation Rally.
__________________________________________________
In Hickory, NC, St. Andrew's Lutheran rallied their small Sunday school together
under the theme "Baptism....making disciples." The entire congregation was
involved in some way: small children shared their favorite Bible stories, Confirmation
youth told stories about their baptism, Adults joined in singing songs from VBS, and the
newly baptized were introduced and celebrated.
Special events
Some congregations offer occasional or regularly scheduled "special events" as a
way to enhance their Sunday school ministry. They find that the rhythms of the church
year, secular holidays made sacred or celebrations prompted by other congregational events
are perfect times to create cross-generational faith shaping opportunities. Special events
usually allow for multi-sensory activities that often are not feasible within the regular
Sunday school schedule. They need to be carefully planned, coordinated and promoted to
maximize involvement and they become a great way to use the gifts of those eager to be
involved in one-time, short term commitments.
__________________________________________________
Once a month, teachers are free to attend the adult class while parents and other
leaders create an interactive, hands-on learning opportunity for "Something Special
Sundays" at Holy Cross Lutheran, Wheatridge, CO. The story, "A tale of Three
Trees", provided the foundation for a four-session special event for 3 year olds
through 6th graders. Each session included hearing the story, a craft activity,
refreshments and prayer. A huge paper tree in the hallway reminded the children of the
story as each month their crafts were added to the montage.
Worship and Prayer
Most congregations understand that Sunday school is not merely a time to educate. It's a
time for each learner to be drawn into a closer relationship with God through prayer,
praise and learning in the company of others in the faith community. Many Sunday school
sessions begin with a total group gathering that imitates the gather, hear, celebrate and
send pattern found in Lutheran worship. Openings become an opportunity to sing, pray,
practice giving, learn about the seasons of the church year and liturgy, and engage in
total group activities. For a variety of reasons, this may be a child's only exposure to
worship and corporate prayer. Congregations find creative ways to make connections between
Sunday school and worship by inviting learners into worship leadership, by writing special
prayers or offering special music. Creative congregations also find helpful ways to teach
the importance of personal prayer through use of devotionals, prayer partners, prayer
chains and prayer journals.
__________________________________________________
At St. Mark Lutheran, Springfield, VA leaders found young people could not name a
favorite hymn. The solution was a special program called "Singing your faith."
Once a month a pair of musicians visit with the classes to introduce a hymn or song and to
teach a little background on it. An audiocassette is left with the Sunday school teachers
to use throughout the rest of the month. With each song learned, the children have their
"musical passport" stamped. Recognition of these songs is enhanced through their
use in worship.
On Rally day, at St. John Lutheran, Mendota, IL
Sunday school children and youth are paired with an adult prayer partner. Together, they
work on a craft such as a prayer magnet to exchange as a daily reminder to pray for each
other.
Social Ministry and Stewardship
Many congregations encourage social ministry projects and teach faithful stewardship as a
way to encourage an active expression of discipleship. Service learning activities such as
collecting school supplies for a shelter, birthday pennies for world hunger, supporting a
resettled refugee, putting up a mitten tree in winter and a sock tree in summer for the
homeless or writing thank you notes to disaster relief workers become wonderful ways to
educate about servant ministry. Creative ways to teach stewardship and care of creation
help reinforce an understanding that all of life is a gift from God.
__________________________________________________
Each Sunday during "Faith Place" (a term used instead of Sunday school at
Christ Lutheran, San Antonio, TX) a story is presented in a way that encourages the
children to carry the message into their daily life. The Good Samaritan story prompted a
walk to the home of a shut in to help with simple chores. The image of Baby Jesus provided
a perfect opportunity to collect baby food and diapers for the local food pantry.
University Lutheran, Seattle, WA views stewardship as a
key component of their Sunday school program. Over the years Sunday school offerings have
gone to local projects such as adopt-a-family, homeless shelters, World Hunger and the
Heifer Project. One year the Sunday school purchased a motorcycle for a missionary in
Africa. Young stewards are taught that their gifts of time and talent are just as
important. During Sunday school and worship, children and youth are invited to read
lessons, participate in dramas, assist in banner making and deliver the sermon.
Global Education
Many congregations incorporate global education into their Sunday school as a way to teach
that God's family reaches around the world. Options have included: a special emphasis
during Sunday school opening times; a mission festival or fair, special offerings,
adoption of a missionary or mission project. Learning about the church around the world is
inherently multi-sensory and interactive. Experiencing the food, costumes, customs, games,
language, family life and geographic trivia offers incredible opportunities for creative
learning about others around the world.
__________________________________________________
The huge mission bulletin board in the hallway of Servant of Christ Lutheran,
Indianapolis, is a constant reminder of the ways the congregation is connected with the
wider church through prayer, financial support and other service projects. An annual
mission fest, a global mission adult Sunday school class, projects for Global Heath
Ministries and global guests are just a few ways this congregation is infected with
"global fever."
Parents as Partners
Studies show that the most significant influence on a child's faith formation is a parent
who models Christian values. Discipling congregation summon parents to take seriously
God's call to be witnesses to their children and to grow in faith maturity along side of
them. Many congregations remind parents of their baptismal promises and equip them for the
task by inviting them into Sunday school leadership roles, calling on their gifts for
special events, providing home devotional materials and family time ideas, and by offering
adult Christian education opportunities.
__________________________________________________
St. Paul's, Grand Island, NE makes the church-family connection by inviting youth
and adults into leadership as Sunday school teachers, puppeteers, and actors. In the two
year old class, the teacher facilitates while parents present the lesson as a way to
practice effective parenting skills. A "Mommy and Me" Bible study for
preschoolers and parents encourages faith nurture in other creative ways.
Year-Around Sunday School
Some congregations, guided by an understanding that short respites throughout the year are
far more beneficial to consistent learning than a long summer break, are moving to
year-round Sunday school programs. Special events interspersed throughout the year give
variety to the Sunday school program and allow for more expanded and elaborate special
activities in the summer. Typically a summer staff plans, coordinates and implements an
intergenerational or broadly graded Sunday school giving the primary staff a break. Many
congregations find this a creative way to avoid the summer slump and encourage visits by
new neighbors.
__________________________________________________
The people at St Luke, Summerville, SC said YES to summer Sunday school. This
congregation in suburban Charleston feels that we often send the message "quit
coming" when we stop congregational activities for the summer. They also found that
this is the time of year when church is least likely to be in competitions with sports,
school events or other activites. As families filter in and out of town on vacations, the
consistency of having an educational opportunity along with worship on Sunday morning is
valued by all. In fact the youth and adult summer Sunday school classes at St. Luke are
the best attended of all.
Technology
While computers will never substitute for the spiritual formation that grows through
relationships, the church is challenged to embrace the technology and realities of
computer age learning. Computers have been instrumental in engaging children, youth and
adults in Biblical learning through games, quizzes and reinforcement materials. Some
congregations have found creative ways to use the gifts of computer literate youth to
design flyers or to create a Sunday school newsletter. Supervised use of the Internet can
be a great way to learn about Christianity, the church and world mission. Many sites offer
discussion questions, craft ideas and interactive games that can be downloaded and used
individually or in group settings.
__________________________________________________
St. Mark's, Wapakoneta, OH thought they could never budget for computers in Sunday
school. One donation started the ball rolling and now this congregation has a computer lab
with four stations that is regularly used as part of their rotational approach to Sunday
school.
Salem Evangelical Lutheran, Houston, is setting a high-tech pace
with satellite teleconference capabilities. Through their facilities they are able to tap
into numerous national learning opportunities without even leaving their church building.
Memory Work
Memory work is a valuable component in Christian education for many congregations. They
see memorizing books of the Bible, selected scripture passages, the catechism, and parts
of the liturgy as an important way to build a firm foundation for lifelong discipleship.
Memory work by way of songs, games, cooperative contests, interactive learning activities
and even the computer can be effective if the end result is not simply gold stars but a
strengthened Christian identity.
__________________________________________________
Trinity Lutheran, Stevens Point, WI uses memory work to strengthen the church-home
connection through "the language of the faith." On Rally day parents are given a
Sunday school handbook which outlines goals for Sunday school, procedures, the calendar of
events, a syllabus explaining what each class will be learning, and ways parents can
provide faith nurture at home. The handbook also suggests memory work for each age level
(e.g. The Lord's prayer for three year olds, etc.).
Congregations find creative ways to make connections between Sunday school and worship by inviting learners into worship leadership, by writing special prayers or offering special music.
Sunday School Planning Steps
If you have followed the process outlined on page xx of this resource you should be at the point of reflecting on implications and possible options for future consideration. Use the following activities and questions as a place to begin your Sunday school planning. Be sure to expand on this process in ways that work best for your setting. More than anything, work to implement your plans and suggestions so that they will truly make a difference into your future.
FIRST STEP: Complete a Sunday school vision statement
Revisit or write for the first time a vision statement for Sunday school in your setting.
Include rationale, focus, program description and hoped for outcomes. Make sure your
Sunday school vision is congruent with the mission statement of the congregation and
includes reference to other learning ministry options. Be sure to share your vision in a
way that increases ownership among key leaders in the congregation.
SECOND STEP: Identify present strengths
As you review your present Sunday school program, what elements or parts of the format
excite you the most? What pieces are "keepers?" What might be unique to your
context and setting? List as many as you can.
THIRD STEP: Identify your present "approach"
and "elements"
Based on the information provided in this guide, what is your present "approach"
to Sunday school? Is there more that one approach being used? Which of the elements do you
use in your setting? Are there unique elements to your setting that haven't been named?
FOURTH STEP: Consider new options
Reflect on your setting, the unique needs of your children, youth and adults and the
realities of your congregation's resources. Is there room to consider a new or different
approach? What elements might add value to your Sunday school program? Make a list of the
possibilities.
FIFTH STEP: Plan your strategy for accomplishing your
objectives
Decide on the number of pieces you wish to pursue. Devise a plan that is realistic,
achievable, and anchored to a time line. Review the listing of resources suggested on the
next page. Consider what new elements or curriculum you might consider to strengthen your
new plan.
Sunday School Resources
Consider the following resource and curriculum optoins as you evaluate your Sunday school ministry programs. Resources are listed by category and often may be used in many of the approaches to Sunday school programming. Except when indicated, all resources may be ordered by calling Augsburg Fortress Publishers at 800/328-4648. For more information, check your Education Resources catalog, the Augsburg Fortress web site at www.augsburgfortress.org, or call 800/328-4648.
Equipping LeadersPracticing Faith
Faith Curriculum
Writer: Diane Monroe
Editors: David Poling-Goldenne
Design: Sharon Schuster
Copyright ©1999 by the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, 8765 W. Higgins Road, Chicago, IL 60631.
Permission is granted for congregations of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America to reproduce this resource for local use. Multiple copies can be ordered by calling 800/328-4648, utilizing the code listed on this page.