Re Christian Education
Proverbs 1:2-6 For learning about wisdom and instruction, for understanding words of insight, for gaining instruction in wise dealing, righteousness, justice, and equity; to teach shrewdness to the simple, knowledge and prudence to the young-- Let the wise also hear and gain in learning, and the discerning acquire skill, to understand a proverb and a figure, the words of the wise and their riddles.
Think back with me: who was one of your Sunday school teachers? Why do you remember them? What did they teach you?
If you read the lead Tidings article for February, you may guess where I am going with this. The Christian Education Task Force is up and running, and wants you to dream, and look back, and think and dialogue with us. We are scratching our heads, because Sunday school attendance (and volunteers to teach - and that's for all ages!) is at an all-time low, and we recognize the REAL need for ALL of us to continue learning and growing as disciples of Christ.
Matthew 6:33 But strive first for the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.
So - we're sending out a link to a survey for all of you to fill out (it's at the end of this piece! Click on it, and it will take you to a Google survey created by the CE Task Force with MUCH help from Cailey Stancl!) For those without email, we'll mail a hard copy for you to fill out. Also, we'll be looking for conversations with lots of groups in our congregation: small groups, classes, teachers, with an eye to finding out what your needs are, and how best we can work together to continue nurturing all of us, from the cradle through our senior years!
Proverbs 22:6 Train children in the right way, and when old, they will not stray.
Also - be on the lookout for easel pads posted near the sanctuary, with questions, like the one above, for you to answer - and have conversations with others about!! Let's talk about this! Together, I know the Spirit will work through us to help us build a stronger community, nurtured by the Word of God through our relationships with one another! Tell us about you, and your needs... and also YOUR willingness to learn, and help others learn!
I continue serving in Christ,
Pastor Toby