Planning Tips for April C. E. Ministry Team

1. Checking In

Make this a regular part of your meeting. Even in the smallest of congregations, it is helpful to give opportunity for personal updating. Sometimes we assume that we know people well and may be tempted to skip this item; however, we all need to feel the support of persons and to be able to share our joys and concerns with trusted friends.

2. Devotional Thoughts and Prayer

3. Reviewing Agenda

           Give everyone an opportunity to add items to the agenda.

4. Updating on Ongoing Ministries

You probably did this in more depth last month at the midway mark of the church school year. However, it is always a good idea to keep these ongoing ministries before your

C. E. Ministry. In fact, your discussion last month may have resulted in some interim activity that will need attention in this meeting.

           Sunday School

Children/Jr. High/Sr. High Youth Groups

Small Groups/Other Classes

5. VBS

Hopefully you have set the date and have called a director.

Have you selected your curriculum?

The Board of C. E. has circulated a VBS chart. You can also see it at http://www.cumberland.org/bce/vbs2007.pdf

           It’s time to think about how you will promote VBS to your congreration and community.

6. Confirmation or Church Membership Class

You are probably in the midst of this. However, if you have not planned for one, do you need to consider doing so? The Making of Disciples Called Cumberland Presbyterian is a resource that you might consider. It is available from Resources - Board of Christian Education, 901/276-4572, extension 252 - Matt Gore.

7. Presbyterial Rallies/Retreats/ Camps

Report on any presbyterial rallies or retreats. These are extensions of your congregation’s ministry.

8. Youth Conference Experiences

Keep these opportunities before your church. CPYC is scheduled for July 7 -12. The Presbyterian Youth Triennium is scheduled for July 17-22. Information has been sent to your congregation. Check also at http://www.cumberland.org/bce/youth.html.

9. Getting Started on a New C. E. Year

Sunday School

As you begin this task, it is a good idea to have the names of the children and

youth in your congregation listed according to age. (See the chart under The New Church School Year on this web site.)

Groupings - children, youth

It is helpful then to think of how to group children.

                       Birth - 2, Ages 3-4, K, Grades 1-2, Grades 3-4, Grades 5-6, Grades 7-8,

                                   Grades 9-12 or

                       Birth - 2, Ages 3-5, Grades 1-3, Grades 4-6, Grades 7-12 or

                       Birth - 2, Ages 3-4, Kindergarten - Grade 6, Grades 7-12 or

                       What best fits your situation.

It is helpful to list possible attendance and probable attendance. (See the chart under The New Church School Year on this web site.)

           Groupings - adults

Are there enough classes?

                       Is there enough variety in what is offered so that adults have a choice?

                       Are there gaps?

           Curriculum

                        Are changes needed anywhere?

           Additional offerings for children, youth, adults?

These are just some hints for an agenda. Make it yours!