Hello,
My name is Bob Pfeiffer, and I am one of the Sunday School teachers at United Methodist Church in Sturgeon Bay, WI. Alongside me is Angel Roig, our Youth Outreach Director. We are delighted that you and your family are considering joining our Sunday school class and worship services. We hope this letter gives you a clear understanding of what to expect.
Our goal is to guide and support your children in exploring and practicing their faith. Church is a place for us to come together to celebrate and experience God’s presence, and to enjoy fellowship as members of the Kingdom of Heaven. We teach that we are the faith children of our Heavenly Father, united as brothers and sisters.
Our class goes beyond just teaching Bible stories; it focuses on helping children grow spiritually alongside their physical and mental development. With the help of the indwelling Spirit of God, encouragement from parents, and mutual support, children can develop into secure and loving individuals.
We nurture their spiritual growth through stories, songs, prayer, quiet reflection, and worship. Our message emphasizes becoming strong and upright so they can serve others—acting as God’s ambassadors- His hands and feet on Earth.
Our classes always have two teachers present. Though our current class size is small, we are actively encouraging more children to join. Lessons are tailored for early elementary students, from 1st to 4th grade, but we can easily accommodate both younger and older children as well.
We look forward to welcoming your family into our community.
Warm regards,
Bob Pfeiffer
The Basics, Background and logistics:
We begin the worship service at 10:00 A.M. but many people come early to eat a few snacks and visit at “Café Joy” which is in our fellowship hall. Sweets and savory items are offered (free will donation). Angel and I are preparing the classroom and greeting any new children and parents during this time.
We begin our Sunday School class by gathering in the sanctuary as a congregation; some children sit with their parents, (but if you come by yourself or with a sibling, you can sit up front with Angel or myself). We participate in the Call to Worship, sing our opening hymns, then Angel leads the children in “Children’s Moments”. This is a short devotional lesson given at the front of the church. From there the children, myself, and Angel head over to the classroom.
A typical Lesson Plan:
The lessons follow a pre-set pattern, designed to foster familiarity and predictability; the children will know what to expect.
- Introduction. getting settled-in, greeting each other.
- Opening prayer. We start by thanking God for this class, asking for his blessing as we explore the story of the week.
- Review of last week’s lessons “what we learned”.
- Group reading from The Action Bible, published by David C. Cook. This is in graphic novel form, wonderfully illustrated with simple text for young readers. We each read a section, depending on reading skills.
- Audio-visual support materials:
- This usually takes the form of a YouTube video, our main source being “The Chosen”, when covering Jesus’ mission on earth. This series offers rich context; the content is Biblical, authentic, and visually stunning. The viewers can feel and see what it was like to be there!
- Other sources as appropriate. Whenever possible, we shy away from simplistic animations and cartoonish renditions: but sometimes it is the best messenger.
- Songs and performances that amplify the lesson content. When possible, we invite the children to sing along; some songs incorporate movement.
- Verses from the Bible. Our main source is Psalms and Proverbs; short verses that reflect the subject matter of the main lesson.
- Notebook drawing, entries. Each child is given a notebook where they can draw something from the day’s lesson or copy a verse- during this time we play calming, sacred/religious music. This not only reinforces the message of the day but allows the child to engage quietly and reflect privately.
- Parting Blessing. We recite a blessing for and to all who are in the class.
Other Offerings as Time and Seasons Dictate:
- Handbells
- Crafts
- Service: helping with chores around the church
- Exploring how Christians worshipped and expressed their love of God in olden times in far-away places. “The Family of Humankind”
- Quiet time (contemplation)
Parents and guardians are welcome to join us in the worship service, or in class. If you want more information or wish to discuss anything, feel free to call me at:
920-388-9110 or email:
