The Promise of “Yes”!

As we begin another church and school year at St. Mary's, I am excited about the possibilities that lie ahead! There will be lots of changes to the Sunday School program with Nancy Clark's retirement and Rev. Elaina's new leadership. When Rev. Elaina asked me to help teach some classes for the 2nd through 5th graders, I was initially reluctant due to time constraints. But after prayerful consideration and wanting to help Rev. Elaina in her new role, I said "yes"!

Another reason I said "yes" is due to my experience teaching Sunday School at our previous church St. Mark's in Washington DC to a similar age group. I was also reluctant at first, but I allowed myself to trust the process and really settle in with the kids and get to know them. I am happy to say that the relationships we built back then have given back in so many wonderful ways!

I remember that on our first day just before class began, the young boys were spinning around in their wheeled chairs (which we of course eventually moved out of the classroom!) and the young girls were already rolling their eyes at the boys’ antics! But once we got started and gradually established a routine, the kids genuinely impressed me with how they engaged with me and each other. From listening and reading followed by Q and A sessions, to joining in with games and other creative activities, they participated fully, and much more than I had expected.

Another added bonus was that I got to know their parents when accompanying the kids back to their meeting point after class. The parents were naturally curious as to what had happened during Sunday School, and we had many interesting conversations as I got to know them too!

As the weeks flew by, I found myself looking forward to seeing their familiar faces each week, and when the school year was through, I felt a little wistful that our time together had drawn to a close. As the kids grew up, they always remembered that I was part of their Sunday School experience and would share a wave and a smile across the church.

And years later, I still get excited to hear about what those kids are doing today. I’m reminded that the word “church” means “community”. Looking ahead to this new school year at St. Mary's, I am certain that by saying “yes” to teaching Sunday School, I will deepen my relationships with the kids, their parents, the other teachers, and our broader church community. If you’ve thought even briefly about joining the Sunday School team, I am hopeful that you may also consider saying "yes"!

Ray Hahn
Vestry Member