Weekly Reflection - 5/7/24
St. Mary's Reflection: The Rev. Kira Austin-Young
Celebrating our Sunday School Teachers
Here at St. Mary’s, we are heading into the time of year where we recognize and celebrate many of our ministries. This Sunday, we acknowledge our Sunday School teachers. In celebrating Sunday School teachers and their ministry, it's essential to recognize the profound impact they have on the lives of our children. Their dedication, passion, and unwavering commitment to nurturing young souls are a testament to the transformative power of love and faith. We are so grateful for their invaluable contributions to the spiritual growth of our communities and the shaping of our future generations.
Last year, when we gathered at Nancy Clark’s home for the annual “Fishers of Kids” dinner, we tallied up multiple decades of experience between all of our Sunday School, confirmation, and youth leaders. We are truly blessed at St. Mary’s to have such dedicated, experienced, and passionate ministers to guide the spiritual growth of the youngest members of our congregation. Even today, I still remember my Sunday School teachers and the impact that they had on me, and I know our kids will as they grow up as well.
Our Sunday School teachers volunteer their time, energy, and talents to create a nurturing environment where children can learn about their faith in a meaningful and engaging way. Whether they're teaching Bible stories, leading discussions on moral values, or organizing fun activities, Sunday School teachers play a vital role in laying the foundation for a lifelong journey of faith. They also have the ability to connect with children on a personal level. They possess a unique gift for speaking the language of young hearts, making complex spiritual concepts accessible and relatable. Through their warmth, patience, and genuine love for their students, they create a safe space where children feel valued, understood, and accepted for who they are.
As I am fond of saying, no matter what our kids retain about the Bible, if they leave St. Mary’s knowing that they are safe here and loved for who they are rather than for what they accomplish, then we have done important work. If the children of St. Mary’s know that church is a place where they have adults who are not their parents who pray for them and care for them, then we have done important work. Our Sunday School teachers lead us in that work, and for that we are so grateful!
The Rev. Kira Austin-Young
