The age old
debate about God and Country is whether or not to require
one-on-one instruction with the pastor/counselor, or to teach
it in a classroom setting to a large group of children. There
is no “right” or “wrong” way to do it. Here are some thoughts
on this issue.
There is no
better motivation for a young person than having the pastor
personally involved in teaching God and Country on an
individual basis. God and Country will have the biggest impact
in this one-on-one setting.
Click here to read the testimony
of Rev. Dr. William H. Willimon, a United Methodist Bishop.
And at the younger levels, one-on-one instruction can also
make for great family ministry. Children will complete the
bulk of the curriculum at home with the help of the parents,
and then bring their work to the pastor for review. Parents
welcome the opportunity to share their faith with their
children and are often surprised by their children’s eagerness
to learn more about God. In larger congregations, this
one-on-one approach may not be feasible. It is very time
consuming and can limit the number of youth a pastor can
teach. Scheduling can be an issue.
Offering
structured classes requires more organization and adult
volunteers. It requires lesson plans, craft supplies, and a 4
to 6 week time commitment for the younger levels and an 8 to
12 week time commitment for the older programs. But it also
has the potential of attracting more youth and becoming an
outreach ministry to Scouts in the community.
Click here to
read testimonial from Buena Vista UMC. Structured classes do
not necessarily eliminate parental involvement in the program.
Pastors can choose to require parents to attend, and even
require parents to complete the Adult Mentor curriculum. Some
families need this type of structure in order to complete the
program. A larger group setting also allows for greater
synergy and peer learning and sharing.
Choosing
to take the children through the program individually or
offering structured classes depends on your individual
situation. A pastor or congregation does not have to be
pigeonholed into doing the God and Country program one
particular way. God and Country is flexible and offers a
myriad of choices to fit your circumstances and needs.
