It was the last place on earth that I expected to find myself, and not for the first time in that week I regretted my moment of weakness when I said "yes" to the nice lady that asked me. (Was it the half Nelson that finally persuaded me?) If I had stood my ground, everything would still be comfortable and normal and only as challenging in as far as I took notice of the sermon! As it turned out, here I was, teetering on the brink of my first Junior Church session as a leader. It wasn't fair, I thought as I did my preparation a few nights before – I haven't seen the inside of a Sunday School class for 25 years and I don't know what to talk about or how, and, anyway, have I got enough material for the session?
I don't think that there was any need to worry on that score – on my current (still limited) experience, I would be surprised if anybody got to the end of their prepared material with the 14 yr old plus group. As others have attested, once on a roll, it is a group whose discussions are likely to take their own course and range widely! That, however, is part of its interest and enjoyment.
All classes are different and some helpers will be suited to some groups and not others, but regardless of the age group the current Junior Church staff is helpful and supportive. The church also buys Scripture Union teaching packs / magazines which offer complete sessions to be adopted wholesale or adapted to suit the needs of those involved. There is, therefore, no shortage of experience or material to draw on.
My experience so far has not been traumatic, nor has the 4 sessions in 6 months been burdensome. It is true that I have found some of the preparation and sessions challenging and have at times been out of my "comfort zone", but I think that has been beneficial. It has been useful to reflect on my beliefs and understanding beforehand and to have them gently questioned. Like an athlete: the more you are tested or push yourself, the more you develop! In that way both teacher and class benefit from the experience.
The Junior Church is always on the lookout for new helpers. It scared me, but I survived so why not have a quiet word with one of the existing staff or contact Denise Fisher? – Come on in, the water's lovely!
by Neville (see following item)
