Rector's Rambling - September 12, 2010 - Christian Education

Today we get back into the swing of the education program at St. John’s.
A few years ago there was a public service announcement that ended with the tag-line, “never stop learning”. This is certainly true when it comes to our life of faith!
Most of us know that Sunday School is an important element of a parish church. All children in the parish should be participating in Sunday School! We certainly would be shocked if a parent decided not to have their child educated by not sending them to school, or arranging to school them at home. And yet, some in the body of Christ, who faithfully do the secular requirements of education, do not have the same vigilance to have their children educated in the things that have eternal consequences. In Sunday School, the children not only learn the facts of the scriptures, but also learn to love them, because they point us to Jesus. As they grow, they need this foundation of faith to fight against the temptations of the world, the flesh, and the devil. What are we saying to our children when we make a great effort to get them to school Monday through Friday, but Sunday School (or, God forbid, Sunday Worship) can be put aside for other matters? Children absorb their parents’/grandparents’/guardians’ priorities.
What is true for the children in Sunday School is also true for adults. We also need to continue to learn more and more about our Lord and His Church. Reading and studying the Scriptures at home is a great start! Being involved in Adult Education at St. John’s is another great place to be! The Alpha Course is yet another great opportunity, as are other programs put on in this parish. And in the coming months, as a result of the Faith Alive Weekend, we hope to branch out into small group ministry where people can gather together during the week to study the Word of God together.
Children and adults alike are called to keep learning! Let us do so to His greater honor and glory!