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The Christian Education Handbook
Each congregation and faith community is unique. There is a wide variation in size, setting, history, traditions, liturgical practices and theological viewpoints. What each has in common is a vision to share the Good News of Jesus Christ.

At its best, each congregation will be organized around its vision for making disciples in its particular location. This section of the Resource Room will offer ideas, downloadable resources and links for helping church leaders structure, plan and organize the educational ministries in a congregation. These will assist you with the "big picture" in putting together a holistic program.

These documents can be compiled to construct your own "Christian Education Handbook." Simply purchase a three-ring binder, slip in the cover, develop a Table of Contents or tab system, and fill as needed with content!

Here you will find:
- Job descriptions
- Registration forms
- Permission slips
- Organizational charts
- Budget templates
- Planning ideas
- and more added monthly . . .
Files:
  • Handbook Cover - A simple cover that can be printed out and slipped into the cover of a 3-ring-binder for making your own "Christian Education Director's Handbook."
  • Calendar for the 2009-2010 - This calendar can assist in the planning of your Christian Education programs. A chart with each Sunday (August 2009 - August 2010), the Sunday readings as well as the church season, special days and places to add your own events are listed.
  • Instructions - Sample instructions for putting together your own "Christian Educator's Handbook."
  • Church School Teacher Position Description - When inviting people to the ministry of serving as a teacher in the Church or Sunday School, whether it is with children, youth, or adults, it is helpful to have a description of what their responsibilities will be. It will assist them in discerning if they feel they have the gifts and skills (and heart) for this ministry.
  • Background Checks - While it is disheartening to do this, we are called to protect the children and youth that we serve as well as protect those who offer ministry. In today's world, obtaining background checks is important and is is grounded in theological principles.
  • Called to Teach - A great way to highlight the importance of the ministry of teaching.
  • The Supply Closet - Having a well stocked classroom shelf or supply closet in the church available for last minute and often used materials is a must. Get the congregation to donate the items through posting one item on an index card on a bulletin board for individuals or families to take and collect the item.
  • The Learning Space - Assessing the size of your classroom, types of furniture and what different age levels need for movement is an important function of program planning.
  • The Church Nursery - Our smallest members need our best care. That means making sure the environment in which they are cared for and the people who spend time with them deserve our utmost care and scrutiny.
  • Nursery Registration Cards - A suggestion for a Registration Form for the infants and toddlers who are cared for in the Church Nursery or Child Care on Sundays during worship (and other times.)
  • The Essential Library - Trying to construct a personal library of books that will support you in your ministry with children, youth, and/or adults? Looking for a comprehensive list of the latest titles and pedagogy? Here it is!
  • Planning Adult Christian Formation Programs - Tips regarding the topics that adults desire to learn more about. Also, how to plan a year-long program for adult education.
  • Education Planning Calendar - A chart of the Lectionary readings from June 2010 through August 2011 that offers space to add your educational events and other items for planning purpose. Print out, add your own items, make copies for your staff and volunteers.
  • Adult Curriculum Chart - An overview of many programs, resources and curricula that can be used in a variety of adult learning models.
  • Youth Curriculum Chart - An overview chart of a multitude of resources and curriculum that can be used with youth (ages 13-18).
  • Children's Curriculum Chart - An overview chart of a multitude of curricula, resources and programs for children's Christian education. Updated May 2010.
  • Getting Ready for a New Year - Here are some tips for getting ready for a new academic year from Laura Toepfer, Managing Director for Confirm not Conform.
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