Categories: uncategorized
Date: 19 September 2005 17:23:59
Over the last 3 weeks, since Sunday School restarted after the summer break, I've seen a 100% increase in attendance. The only problem is that they haven't been there together. Yes, my Sunday School class increased from 1 to 2, unfortunately the one member was off ill this sunday when the second one came!
Before the summer I was very cheerful as my class numbered 7, at least 4 of whom attended every week. Eveything seemed to be progressing. All of these kids were related to church members and attended the youth group. A feeling of joy and a job well done were beginning to appear.
Admittedly there were problems as I was undergoing some minor upheavels in my private life that led to me having to miss the odd week here and there. Then, of course, we had the dreaded summer break.
I hate this as it always seems like a good idea until you struggle to get them back. And I've found that you always struggle. Then you have additional problems with them being at the age where they have other commitments to fit in, such as dancing, gymnastics and guide gangshows. In addition you have family crisis' such as divorce or the death of relatives.
This sunday was also the return of youth group. A new year and an opportunity to begin building on the finish before summer.
The youth group started late last year. We have 4 leaders and up to 12 kids attending. Since the beginning we have encountered the problems associated with anything organised by Pastor Chugabug. Disorganisation seems to be her middle name.
Do we have a thought out programme or aim for the group? Are we there for something other than a way to get the kids out of the house? Are we just a childminding service for her children?
I expect you can guess the answer too he above.
With regards to Christian teaching I was told that we shouldn't press this yet as the aim was to get the kids into the church before trying to indoctrinate them. Makes us sound like the Moonies or the Scientology crowd!
Now I've read up on the youth stuff and found that everyone agrees that you should challenge the kids with Christ. They won't run but they will listen and respect you. I also see it as a way to challenge their outlook on life in general. Too teach them about justice, fairness and respect for others. Yet I've found that we can spare an hour for games, 30-45 minutes for food but only 15 minutes to talk to them about anything else.
Now your hero is not known for taking things lying down. As such Tired has taken the opportunity to state that this year things will be different. They can play/vegetate for 30 minutes; have 30 minutes for food but the rest will be spent exploring Christ and how we can live as disciples for him.
The funny thing is that a lot of the kids we have already attend other churches. Therefore why be afraid the connect on a Christian level? Why is a minister concerned about not sharing the word with them?
So this sunday we began again. Expected attendance, based on replies received.... 8. Actually attendance 3. This included the girl who was too ill to attend Sunday School that morning.