Chapel of the Cross, Chapel Hill, NC

For many, many years I have taught in the Church School - most years in second grade. Each year has brought me joy, surprise, and a greater understanding of how God works in our lives. Second grade happens to be an age that I love to teach. The children have new tools for learning, an excitement about exploring ideas, and an unself-conscious creativity. They ask questions that can be amazing and enlightening and some that can stop you in your tracks. I often have long reflections on how I have answered a question and how my answer could have been better, but you never get the same question twice.

For second graders, we are trying to increase their sense of belonging in our church. In doing this, we are teaching about our faith. The Episcopal Curriculum that we use now is the best that we have used during my tenure; however, a new one is being tested in a couple of grades this year. The curriculum is an excellent guide for teaching the great stories of the Bible, the Christian faith, and the traditions and practices of the Episcopal Church. It is full of suggestions and allows flexibility.

Most importantly, we want our children to know that this is a place where they are loved and respected. We are teaching about caring relationships, love for one another, and helping others in need. There is the challenge of channeling their sometimes abundant energy and enthusiasm, without squelching it. The children are teaching us as well. It has been a special privilege to know our children as they grow and mature. Many have remained my friends through the years. They enrich the life of the Church and especially enrich mine.

Team teaching, as we have done for a number of years, gives each of us the opportunity to know and work with a group of teachers who share ideas and the teaching load. We are all better teachers because of what we learn from each other.

Our children will be the leaders of the Church tomorrow. Let's start early to help them find joy and learning and love at the Chapel of the Cross. Being part of a team might be your calling.

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