By Dick Cagno

The church is a voluntary association of persons. Most congregations have only one person employed by the church for ministry – the pastor. Practically all congregations are totally dependent on volunteers to carry on the work of the Sunday school. Persons who teach in Sunday school represent one of the largest volunteer groups in the United States.

The process of getting and keeping good teachers is a five-step process, according to Dr. Roy H. Ryan, in his book entitled "Strong Sunday Schools – Strong Churches!"

The first step is to find good prospects. A list of qualities and experience you expect, standards and expectations you want from your prospects, and an adequate job description are necessary as you search.

Next, properly approaching the prospect and asking them to teach is a key to getting the right people. Emphasizing gifts of ministry, personal contact with prospects and adequate information about the job are all helpful in approaching those being called to teach.

Third, offering orientation to the teacher, as well as providing some hands-on experience will insure a successful beginning in the new job.

Fourth, providing some regular training opportunities for the entire teaching staff is vital to the on-going health of the staff and the Sunday school. Whether attending denominational training events, having someone come into the local church, viewing training videos or films, visiting laboratory schools, or guiding reading are all excellent ways to support your staff and teachers.

Fifth, direct support of the teachers is also essential. A wise pastor once shared that "when you enlist someone to do a job in the church, do all you can to see that they succeed." A solid support system might include regular teachers’ meetings, recognition of teachers within the congregation, providing good equipment and supplies, a good backup or substitute system and administrators who know how to say "thank you."

(This article appeared in the "Winter, 1994-95" issue of "The Herald.")