The year-end school party is every child’s favourite celebration as they welcome the long holiday for the year. Handled correctly, it becomes a true celebration with a spirit of community where learners grew into a cohesive classroom team. On 15^th November 2015, children of St. Joseph’s Church, Sentul said goodbye to another Sunday School year and celebrated their year-end party with their respective class teachers. This year was somewhat different as the primary classes combined and executed a grand celebration with each of the child making an effort in contributing refreshments (food and drinks). There was a vast variety of food and drinks that was shared lovingly among the children and their teachers. Once again, this shows the support from parents that came together to make the event a success as a parish. We see love, care, sharing, joy and faith – which is what a parish community should be.

The year-end party maybe a time of fun for the children, but at the same time the purpose is to also acknowledge, appreciate and give thanks to the teachers who were so committed throughout the year. They are the real reason behind this fabulous year-end fellowship. The teachers who come to church and Sunday classes every single Sunday with a lesson prepared, and sit in a room full of students, to lead them through the intricacies of the Bible, teach them, raise them up, pray for them, and ultimately lead many of them to faith in Christ. The teachers are the ones who come back year after year full of passion and fire. Their true rewards will come. The Lord, Jesus Christ tells each of them “Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world.” Matthew 25:34.

Teachers even took the time to organize some fun-filled games for the children. The children in return illustrated and expressed their pure love through appreciative messages, wishes via cards, gifts and cakes for their beloved teachers. This act of pure kindness and true love from the children captured their teachers’ hearts, as teachers broadly smile, full of happiness and content knowing that their efforts are genuinely appreciated. This was indeed witnessing to the Good News as everyone came together selflessly and in unity with one another as in Christ.

There is no doubt that the teachers look forward to some time out and a good break from their weekly lessons. So do the children after week in and week out of early rising and faithful attendance. But it is all worth it as nothing can take the place of togetherness and solidarity. St Joseph’s Church wishes to give a huge thank you to all the Sunday School teachers and children who make Sunday mornings a time of pleasant joy. The teachers are also thankful and feel very blessed for the support of Parish Priest, Fr. George, for his continuous support and love.

Finally, the teachers wishes best of luck to all the form 5 students as they take on life’s next chapter. To all teachers, you are Christ’s workforce that keeps Sunday School up and running. Teachers, you are dedicated Saints of God, at least on this side of heaven. Peace be to all.

by Amanda Pumala

 

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