Fall 2023 Sunday School begins August 28
This fall, we plan to offer Sunday School both in-person and online every week. As the beginning of the Sunday School year gets closer, we will make decisions about our exact formats and Covid procedures depending on the conditions at the time.
There is no Sunday School during the summer, but you are welcome to join us for Family Service Sundays on June 26, July 17, July 31, August 14 from 10- 10:45.
How Do We Participate in Sunday School?
- Advance registration is required for all children even if they have been enrolled before, so please complete the enrollment form. Registration will open in July.
- Stay informed about all activities and changes by joining the Children & Family Ministries’ Email List. Click HERE to join.
Common Questions about Sunday School
Q. If I’m new or visiting, do I have to register our children to attend Sunday School?
A. Visitors and new participants are always welcome and your child can join a class any time during the school year. However, registration is required. For the 22-23 school year, advance registration is required whether you are participating online or in person. You can fill out the registration form (above) any time, and we will be happy to see you in class the following Sunday. Registrations on Sunday mornings will be honored for the following Sunday. This allows us to maintain safe classrooms; thank you for understanding.
Q. What if my child has special needs?
A. Children with special needs are warmly welcomed in our Sunday School classes. Please speak to Deacon Mary about how we can create the best possible experience for your child. Also, check out our Rejoicing Spirits service – it’s a spirit-filled, special worship experience designed for special needs children and their families!
Q. What should I do while my child is in Sunday School?
A. Parents are welcome but not required to help in Sunday School classrooms (see more on volunteering below). You are welcome to attend an adult Sunday School class, Redeemer Choir practice, or enjoy coffee and fellowship in Sims Atrium.
Q. When is Sunday School?
A. Currently, Sunday School for children is 10-10:45 am. The pandemic has caused some changes in our Sunday schedule, and we are currently working to finalize what our worship and faith formation schedule will be going forward. Watch for announcements about the worship and Sunday School schedule in August. Sunday School begins the Sunday after Labor Day and continues, with some breaks, until May. See the current year’s Sunday School Calendar for more details.
Q. What is the sign-in process for Sunday School?
A. Students 2nd grade and under are signed in and out by a parent at the door of their classroom. Students in 3rd – 5th grade are allowed to come and go on their own, unless arrangements have been made to accommodate a student’s special needs.
Q. Who are the adults in my child’s classroom?
A. Good question! We’re glad you asked. All our teachers are established members of the congregation who have been background checked and have undergone training according to our Child Protection Policy. They have also been trained on the curriculum, classroom management, health and safety, and emergency procedures. They are parents, grandparents, teachers, and people who simply take seriously the promises made by the faith community to every child at baptism to raise them in the faith. There are two adults scheduled for each classroom each week- a lead teacher and an assistant.
Q. I have more questions, who can help me?
A. Deacon Mary Houck, our Children and Family Ministries Director, is happy to answer more questions and get to know you and your family as you decide whether Redeemer is the right place for your family or as you start participating in Sunday School for the first time.
Helping out
Our Sunday School teachers and assistants are volunteers who give their time and energy because they love kids and are devoted to helping them grow in faith. While parents of participants are not required to help in our classrooms, you are welcome to do so! New volunteers usually start as teacher assistants, meaning someone else plans and leads the class and you get to just show up, help as needed, and have fun with the kids!
Both teachers and assistants rotate in our classrooms, and our basic expectation is that they serve one Sunday per month (many volunteer for more than one per month, but that is optional). We also have some that wish to serve occasionally and act as substitutes- also an essential role! Once you volunteer you will be supported by the Sunday School leadership staff and the teacher/assistant team for your grade level.
Our volunteer training and approval process includes the following steps:
- Background check
- Child Protection Training
- Teacher/Assistant Training
- Discussion with our Sunday School leadership staff about what role, age group, and schedule work best for you.
If you or someone you know has a gift for teaching kids about God’s word and God’s love, please prayerfully consider sharing that gift with the Sunday School program.
