Login

Each congregation and faith community is unique. There is a wide variation in size, setting, history, traditions, liturgical practices and theological viewpoints. What each has in common is a vision to share the Good News of Jesus Christ.

At its best, each congregation will be organized around its vision for making disciples in its particular location. Within this page are ideas, downloadable resources and links for helping church leaders structure, plan and organize the educational ministries in a congregation. These will assist you with the “big picture” in putting together a holistic program.

These documents can be compiled to construct your own “Christian Education Handbook.” Simply purchase a three-ring binder, slip in the cover, develop a Table of Contents or tab system, and fill as needed with content!

• Handbook Cover - A simple cover that can be printed out and slipped into the cover of a 3-ring-binder for making your own “Christian Education Handbook.”
• Instructions – Download these sample instructions for putting together your own “handbook.”
• The Supply Closet - Every classroom needs ready-to-find materials from time to time for projects and activities. Make sure your closet or shelves have all of these items on hand.
• The Learning Space – Assessing the size of your classroom, types of furniture and what different age levels need for movement is an important function of program planning.
• The Church Nursery - Our smallest members need our best care. That means making sure the environment in which they are cared for and the people who spend time with them deserve our utmost care and scrutiny.
• Nursery Registration Cards - A suggestion for a Registration Form for the infants and toddlers who are cared for in the Church Nursery or Child Care on Sundays during worship (and other times.)
• Church School Teacher Position Description - When inviting people to the ministry of serving as a teacher in the Church or Sunday School, whether it is with children, youth, or adults, it is helpful to have a description of what their responsibilities will be. It will assist them in discerning if they feel they have the gifts and skills (and heart) for this ministry.
• Background Checks - While it is disheartening to do this, we are called to protect the children and youth that we serve as well as protect those who offer ministry. In today’s world, obtaining background checks is important and is is grounded in theological principles.
• Planning Adult Education Programs - Tips regarding the topics that adults desire to learn more about. Also, how to plan a year-long program for adult education.
• Education Planning Calendar- (UPDATED on 6/20/11!) A chart of the Lectionary readings from June 2011 through August 2012 that offers space to add your educational events and other items for planning purpose. Print out, add your own items, make copies for your staff and volunteers.
• Understanding the Lectionary - explains how Years A, B, and C tell the story of God’s people through the Sunday readings of the Revised Common Lectionary.
• Teaching with the Prayer Book – A listing of websites and books for the Episcopal Church and teaching with the Book of Common Prayer.
• Teacher Commissioning Service – Taken from “Awake My Soul” edited by Julia Huttar Bailey and Ernesto Medina, this offers a way for a congregation (including children) to be involved in the commissioning of Church School teachers. Or you may choose a number of prayers or simpler commissioning and dedication services here.
• Calling Teachers to Ministry - Having a theology of “call” instead of “recruiting” is modeled after Jesus. Here are some ideas and tips for calling volunteers to an educational ministry in your church.
• Teaching with Movies – Many churches use movies and movie clips for teaching and entertainment. Did you know there are restrictions and laws regarding such uses in public places, including churches? Here is a legal explanation of the law regarding licensing and permissions.
• Lesson Recipe – A simple process to help you plan your lessons without the rush of Saturday night or on your way to church!
• Books for Christian Educators- Looking for great resources for your personal, professional library or your office to support you in your ministry? Check some of these out:
  • Sharon’s Top Ten and other listings from the Resource Recommendations on her blog Rows of Sharon
  • The Essential Library
• The Charter for Lifelong Christian Formation is an excellent document for helping develop your educational ministries in your congregation. It is available in English and Spanish.
• The Bible- The core book for all ministry, there are many translations and ways to engage learners in exploring this library-of-God-in-one-volume.
  • Overview of Bible translations
  • Bible Study Playing Cards
  • Bible Study Treasure Hunt