The excited chatter and laughter of a band of high-spirited youngsters meeting up in St Margaret's church porch on a Sunday morning tells its own story: they are glad to be together again for their very own Family Service of music and scripture readings. Usually the 40 or so children outnumber their parents or guardians.
Fr Philip, who in his six years with us has seen a significant increase in worshippers at the weekly High Mass, is quick to pay tribute to those voluntary teachers who help with this important ministry.
He explains: 'Sunday School is usually a happy experience, a place where children first learn about the life and teachings of Christ. So we owe a significant debt of gratitude to those voluntary Sunday School teachers and helpers who give us that first opportunity. This service gives our children the regular experience of Christian worship with particular opportunities to serve and sing.'
He adds: 'It has been very encouraging to see our Sunday School numbers grow, but it presents a challenge, particularly in the wide age-range of children we are seeking to teach. For in a society where the prominence of Christian education is retreating from school curricula and the Christian ethos of many of our schools is under question, Sunday Schools have an increasingly important role to play in teaching the basics of the Christian faith to our children.'
Mike Casey