Sunday School (or Children’s Church) in Clontarf & Scots Presbyterian Church

Sunday School (or Children’s Church) plays a very important part in our congregation. We have a number of Sunday school teachers and helpers from our congregation who give up their time to teach our children about God through Bible stories, arts and crafts, songs and prayers.

We have 3 age groups: 

· Junior - 3 to 6 year olds

· Senior - 7 to 11 year olds

· 12 year olds and older (youth bible study)

Our Sunday school begins at 11 am in the hall which is beside the church and ends at 11.45 am. Then the children join the main Morning Worship service in the church.  The children’s talk is given by our Minister, the Rev. Lorraine Kennedy-Ritchie before the end of our worship service. The children then join with the congregation as we have tea and coffee, while the children enjoy lemonade and biscuits.

Our Sunday School services for children run from the beginning of September to the end of June each year.  Services are generally in alignment with the primary school calendar, with breaks in the provision of services taking place at holiday times and bank holidays. In our view, it is important for the children of our congregation to have times where they sit in our regular Sunday services, listening and observing and taking their place as important members of our congregation. As well as  holiday times and bank holiday weekends, children stay in the church service on 'Family Service' Sundays. On these occasions the children participate in our morning worship, which we all enjoy very much. Where Sunday School is not available, worksheets and colouring materials are provided for the children to work on as they sit in the church service.

At all times, we are mindful of the safety and well-being of the children in our care. Sunday School teachers and helpers have been trained for their roles and have also received child protection training. At Clontarf and Scots Presbyterian Church we endeavour to follow the guidelines provided by the Taking Care office of the Presbyterian Church of Ireland, with regard to the provision of services for children. In addition, all aspects of Child protection legislation is scrupulously adhered to; for example, all teachers are Garda vetted before they can work will our children and youth.

All children are most welcome to our Sunday School and youth Bible class where they will enjoy themselves and meet new friends.

Anyone who is interested should come along on a Sunday morning or contact our Minister Rev Lorraine Ritchie for more information.

Thank you.

John Simpson, Sunday School Co-Ordinator