Archbishop Writes - Bridging the classroom to church divide

The second policy of our Mission talks about multiplying churches, congregations and fellowships.  We must include in this the commencement of all sorts of ministries.  One of the most heartening signs of Mission initiatives at the moment is the growth in children’s clubs. I am glad to say that almost every church does Special Religious Education.

However, I have often been concerned about the fact that SRE [Special Religious Education] does not necessarily turn into Christian commitment and church attendance. The kids club ministry model is a way of helping with this very problem.  These clubs are strategic in the transition of children and young people from the contact made with them in our schools to ongoing involvement in our church-based ministries. The time slot offered during the week may be more accessible to children from non-churched families and the structure may be less formal than the SRE classroom. This growth in kids clubs is being stimulated and helped by Kids Plus (GFS), CEBS and Anglican Youthworks.

The Rev Barry Costello has been appointed by Youthworks, in association with CEBS, to strengthen boys ministry and to begin new kids clubs. Barry is working alongside Mrs Janene Lewers from Kids Plus/GFS.  These clubs may consist of either boys or girls or be mixed. 

Mr Costello tells me that the need to build a bridge between Years Six and Seven, as far as church programs are concerned, is of vital importance.  There is often a catastrophic fall-out at this point.  Kids clubs help upper primary-aged kids to connect with us. We need to work hard at moving them into our youth ministries as they move into high school years.

Different churches are trying different ways to build this bridge. Some such as Dapto link Year Six groups to their youth ministry team rather than the children’s ministry team.  Others make this link part way through Year Six. Whatever the strategy, it is important that we try some new methods and communicate the successes and lessons learned with one another.

I know that it is not always easy to start a new church plant, but it may well be that a commitment of time and energy to children’s work is even more important.  There are, of course, other models and other opportunities. A music teacher has been using her teaching skills to run classes for children under the age of four, and even to use this as a contact point for parents. The children not only have a great time but learn Christian songs as well. 

Furthermore, they get used to coming to the church building and may well enter a Kids Club at a later point.

Sometimes we need to become intentional about beginning a new ministry. This means taking our resources and gathering them so that the needs of children are well served.  The next generation needs to hear about the Lord Jesus, and our work amongst children may well be one of the most significant things that we do.

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