By Rev. Donald C. McHenry

For over 80 years, the prophets of gloom have been reading the obituary of the Sunday school. "It’s a vestige of the past!" "It’s a dead institution." Yet in many places, Sunday schools are stronger than ever and experiencing tremendous growth. What has died are the outmoded programs and emphases. I am so grateful to be able to experience the thrill and excitement of Sunday school and what it has contributed to my years of ministry.

My involvement in county Sunday school work came about because a layman took me under his wing and showed me the work of the County Sunday School Association. That spark ignited a desire to seek more information as God exposed me to the "teaching ministry" of the church of Jesus Christ.

Let me tell you why I believe in Sunday school…

It meets the needs of babies, children, youth, singles, middle and older adults.

It provides an excellent channel for outreach. Sunday school is an excellent place for Christians to learn how to present the gospel to unbelievers.

It teaches how to discover the truth in God’s Word that produces changes in the actions and life-style of the learners.

It provides a wonderful place for biblical fellowship in small groups.

It is as much a part of the church as the worship in the sanctuary or pastoral care or any other mission of the church.

It provides growth to make intelligent Christians who then go out to share, to witness, and to live their Christianity wherever they are.

It is the unique organization within the church that can play a direct role in church growth.

The Sunday school has made a difference in my life. I saw that reflected in the lives of our three children as they grew and were exposed to the role of the Sunday school in our family circle. I would encourage you to take a step of faith and involve your life in this great enterprise. It will produce a life changing experience. Remember, someone said that the Christian faith has a marvelous retirement plan which is "out of this world!" May God bless!

(This article appeared in the "Spring, 1992" issue of "The Herald.")