sunday school

COME TO JESUS, BRING EVERY CHILD TO JESUS

The Auckland St. Thomas Mar Thoma Sunday School has been an integral part of the church since its inception.

the beginnings

Inspired by the visit of our Late Suffragan Metropolitan Rt. Rev. Dr. Zacharias Mar Theophilus in November 2002, the Auckland Sunday School was started in December 2002. Thirumeni’s visit marked a historic moment, being the first visit of a bishop from Kerala to celebrate Holy Communion in Malayalam in New Zealand. This was open for all Malayalee communities. Thirumeni’s vision was aimed at nurturing and cultivating Christian values and faith in our children. This ecumenical Sunday School continued until 2005 when individual churches established their own Sunday Schools. We express our heartfelt gratitude to St. John’s Anglican Church, Royal Oak for generously allowing us to utilize their facilities from 4-6pm every Sunday. The Sunday School Headmaster was Mr. George Varughese. We thank him for sowing the early seeds in the lives of our children.

CURRICULUM

Sunday school follows the curriculum published by the Diocese of North America and Europe. Children are educated about the rich history of the Mar Thoma Church, as well as various Bible stories and passages. They are also imparted with valuable life lessons that equip them to confront challenges and resist temptations that may jeopardize their commitment to Christian values and principles.

The Sunday School follows the same format as of the schools in New Zealand, we have classes from Years 0 – 13. Year 0 is for children below the age of 5 and Year 1 is for students who are 5 years old. There are some students who live outside Auckland or who cannot come to church on a regular basis, for these students we have online classes also. The Sunday School is held every Sunday after the church services. The Sunday School begins with a prayer by one of the children, some songs, they learn a particular topic and then classes. The topic chosen for 2023 is learning the books of the bible.

Currently we have twenty-two teachers and nearly hundred students.

PROGRAMS

Our academic year commences in February with a special dedication ceremony dedicated for students and teachers. In April, during the school holidays, we organize our Vacation Bible School (VBS). July is the time for our annual Talent Event, which coincides with the school break. In late October, we conduct end-of-year examinations, while November is when we observe World Sunday School Day. During the World Sunday School Day, we have the Thanksgiving Service and Offertory. As the year draws to a close, our Sunday School students actively participate in the Christmas program. Additionally, on every second Sunday of the month, they engage in Bible readings, contribute to the offertory, and assist in the church service.



Expression of interest to join