Growing up in a Catholic home, Sunday school was the highlight of my week. Our teacher was a gentle old lady who taught us how to sing “Jesus Loves Me” and paint Easter eggs. We gathered around her at circle time and listened in awe as she described Joseph’s coat multi-colored coat and how Jesus turned water into wine.
I loved Sunday school as a child and now that I’m an adult, I still feel the same way. This is why it saddens me that attendance is on a steady decline. Not all churches offer catechism classes anymore, and the few that are running may soon stop. I’m glad, however, that the one where my kids go to have no plans of closing down. I believe Sunday school is important when raising little Catholic believers and here are some reasons:
It helps children make friends.
This is perhaps the best, safest place for a child to find a friend. It teaches God-centered values, which makes an ideal environment for nurturing friendships that stand the test of time. My twin daughters met their best friends at Sunday school, and I couldn’t wish for better company for them to hang out with.
It cultivates active participation in church traditions.
The gospel is taught in creative, age-appropriate ways so that children develop a deeper understanding for the Word of God and have fun at the same time. My friend proudly shared that his ten-year-old son initiated going to confession before Lent. A neighbor’s nine-year-old daughter happily sings along to the praises during mass.
It fosters a deeper relationship with Christ.
Songs taught in Sunday school are more than just children’s rhymes. They relay the message that God’s love is unconditional; it’s their refuge and solace when beset with troubles. When our kids commit mistakes and fall, they know they can rise again because God’s love doesn’t falter. As parents, there’s no greater comfort than knowing our children paths are rooted in God’s protection and favor.
Students are less likely to stray.
Studies from several universities and research groups show that regular attendance to a “faith community” yields adults who live longer, happier, and healthier lives. They’re less inclined to experiment with drugs, alcohol, or tobacco and have a higher tendency to value religion, education, and family.
Students are taught to live together harmoniously.
Sunday school is a melting pot of races, classes and cultures. Children are taught to respect and appreciate the differences in background and opinion, and live with them in peace and harmony.
For just an hour every week, you and your family get to enjoy a lifetime of benefits. If all families brought their children to Sunday school and supported the church and lay volunteers, children will grow up to be compassionate, God-centered adults.
It’s my fervent wish that these classes are made available to all kids around the globe so everyone will experience the wonderful things that we do. And who knows, maybe our dreams of a better world will finally come true.
Emmy is a freelance writer for Discount Catholic Products, an online retailer of scapulars, patron saint medals, first Communion gift sets, and many more. She never missed a day of Sunday school and has two pages full of stars in her old scrapbook to show for it.
