5-4-3-2-1 . . . Blast Off!
by Raney K. Good

Here we go into another Sunday School year! How will you plan for this year's flight on the Sunday school rocket?

Many churches have a day when they welcome people of their congregations back from summer vacations. They may name this day Rally Day, Homecoming Sunday, Sunday School Kick-Off, or another name that signifies a time when Sunday school is celebrated and when all ages are encouraged to begin or renew their relationships in classes at church.

Here is a checklist for your flight plan:

1. Determine a date for your special day. Check your church's calendar and the school calendars in your area for school start dates.
2. Prepare the flight crew and support team. The teachers and leaders in your Sunday school will need curriculum materials and an understanding of how to use the materials. A meeting for all teachers is a good way for new teachers and experienced teachers to share their ideas. It is a good way for new teachers to become acquainted with the curriculum and procedures in your Sunday school.
3. Prepare the rocket for launch. Do you have adequate supplies and equipment for each classroom? Are the classrooms clean and ready for learning? Are the rooms comfortable and inviting? Clearly mark the class name outside the door. Include the names of teachers on the sign. Prepare classrooms so that students know they have been expected.
4. Publicize the date for your take-off. Let everyone know about this special event. Have updated class lists with names, addresses, and phone numbers. Teachers can send a personal note or make a phone call to introduce themselves to students in their classes and to invite those students to attend. Put information in the church bulletin or newsletter and the local paper about your special day.
5. Plan for festivities on the day of the launch.

   • Have Sunday school greeters at entryways, stairs, and hallways to help people find the right classes.
   • Will you have an assembly or gathering of all the classes? Sing songs and cheers, share Scripture stories and prayers, introduce teachers.
   • How will new students register their information in your program? Have a table with cards for students or their parents to fill in names, addresses, phone numbers, and birthdays. The classroom teachers could gather this information as well.
   • Invite parents to attend part or all of the class time, or hold an open house before or after the class session.
   • If your church will recognize teachers and leaders for your Christian education program, use the materials for Christian Education Sunday.

Enjoy the flight! Rejoice in another year of learning and growing as your church explores the stories of God and God's love through Jesus Christ.

Raney K. Good is a Christian education consultant from Sugar Grove, Illinois

Originally posted September 8, 1999


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