Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church
Sunday School - Raising Tomorrow’s Saints
Sunday School Registration Form for 2010-2011
“Study to Show Thyself Approved Unto God.” II Timothy 2:15
The purpose of Sunday School is to teach our children how to live their Orthodox faith. By teaching them about the life of Christ, we give them the foundation to live Christian lives, to go out into the world and share their faith and do good works. We encourage our children not only to learn about our faith in the classroom, but in their homes as well. The Sunday School also does a number of charitable works. The Sunday School welcomes children as young as 3 years old in our nursery and offers classes from pre-school through high school.
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How do Balloons Get to God?
Annunciation Sunday School - First Grade Class
On the first day of Sunday School each student in the First Grade class was asked what they hope to learn this year in Sunday School. Our inquisitive first graders asked many wonderful questions such as "How is communion prepared?" and "How does God create the future?" But the one question that stumped the teachers was "How do balloons get to God?"
This question was asked after one child suggested that we write a note to God on a piece of paper and tie it to a balloon with a string. Not being completely sure how to answer this question, we had to ask for help from Father James and Father Timothy. On Oct. 4, Father Timothy joined our class for a discussion about this and other questions from our students.
While Father Timothy did explain that God cannot physically receive the notes and balloons (e.g., the United States Postal Service does not deliver to Heaven), he did explain that God can receive our messages through written or verbal prayer. That answer seemed to satisfy the children and the teachers too. But we are not stopping there.
The first grade class is going to use their idea of sending balloons and messages to God as an opportunity to help raise money for local children's charities. Here is how it will work...On Sunday, November 8 and 15, we will be selling postcards made and decorated by the First Grade students. For a $2 donation, you get a postcard that will later be tied to a balloon - parishioners are welcome to write prayers, give thanks or write whatever they want to share with God. Then, on Sunday, November 22 following the liturgy, the First Grade class will release all the balloons. The entire community is invited to watch as we release your balloons, cards and prayers into the air and watch as they soar across the sky, having faith that God will receive our messages - and at the same time, you will know that you are helping children in need.
The first grade students are excited about this effort and look forward to your support.
It is our honor and privilege to teach your children about their Orthodox Faith.
Sincerely,
First Grade Teachers Katina Harris and Janine Johnson