Mary and Joseph found Jesus (age 12) in the temple,
sitting among the teachers, listening to them, and asking them questions. And all who heard him were amazed at his understanding and his answers.
–Luke 2:46-47
REMEMBER THOSE PROMISES? HELP IS COMING!
In the Baptisms of children at CTL parents, sponsors, and the whole congregation promised to “provide for their instruction in the Christian faith”. Remember?
- Good news: It looks like 2022-23 will allow CTL to return to a ‘normal’ schedule for instruction in the Christian faith”. That has not happened since 2018-19, because of Covid.
- More Good news: Changes are being made to improve the education wing at CTL. Classrooms are being repainted, closets are being cleaned out, and the air hockey table has been moved into a new area. Children’s Sunday School and Faith Formation classes will be in the education wing this school year.
HOW WAS JESUS EDUCATED?
In Jesus’ time, Jewish boys at the age of 5 were brought to their local synagogue to begin their education. Daily classes were taught by a rabbi (teacher). The synagogue’s elementary school had only five textbooks: Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy. From them, children learned Israel’s law, history, and ethics. Formal education for most Jewish children was completed by 18.
LUTHERANS HAVE A HERITAGE OF QUALITY CHRISTIAN EDUCATION
When Martin Luther began working to reform the church, the vast majority of people were illiterate. Luther insisted: Children must learn to read—not just boys, girls too. Why was that so important? When the children could read, they could read God’s word in the Bible. To facilitate that, Luther translated the Bible into German. Imagine places where school children were reading the Bible to their illiterate parents!
OUR CHILDREN ARE A GIFT FROM GOD!
THEY NEED CHRISTIAN EDUCATION!
As young Jesus learned in the synagogue, our young disciples have the privilege of learning in Sunday School and Faith Formation classes. Parents can set an example and grow in their faith at the same time by attending the adult class. I love leading the adult class. This Fall we are planning to use more of the seating space in the Fellowship Hall. There is room for you. Try it. You’ll like it.
Grace and peace,
Pastor Scott Peterson |