By Rodney L. Pry

Several months ago I was at a meeting in western Pennsylvania. Following the meeting, a woman came up to me and said, "I thought you might be interested in hearing about something new that we’re doing in our church." She went on to tell me that her church had just installed six computers in the youth Sunday school department. And, since the computers went into use, their youth attendance had grown from seven kids to 22 kids!

What an exciting idea! Since that time, I’ve been doing some exploring to see exactly what is available to help churches use computers in their teaching ministries.

Bible learning games seem to be the best and most effective software to use with computers to teach children and youth. "Christian Book Distributors" list over 30 different learning games.

Companies such as "Logos" and "Abingdon Press" offer a variety of computer software, from word games and interactive simulation games to teaching resources and references. One of the newer items available is a computer CD-ROM that allows the student to take a virtual tour of the Holy Land. There are even complete Bible lesson study courses available. Check with your local Christian bookstore for more information.

If your church cannot afford to install computers in your Sunday school, you might at least add several of the Bible learning games to your church library for the kids to borrow.

If you are looking for help and resources as a Sunday school teacher, the Internet offers a lot of help. Check out the P.S.S.S.A. web-site for more information and resources that are available.

(This article appeared in the "Summer, 1999" issue of "The Herald.")