Central Papua Conference
Personal Ministries & Sabbath
School Department
2011
MISSION
The Mission of the Sabbath School is to be
a System of Local Church Religious
Education that Builds Faith and Practice.
HOW?
Faith: Local church Sabbath School builds
faith through the study of the Scriptures
and doctrines and teachings of the SDA
Church
HOW?
Practice: It builds practice through the
application of the biblical principles of the
SDA Church to the individual lives of the
Sabbath School Members
Successful Sabbath School has these
elements:
1. Outreach &
2. Soul winning
“Sabbath Schools should be one of the greatest
“instrumentalities, and the most effectual, in
bringing souls to Christ” – Counsels on Sabbath
School Work, p.10
OBJECTIVES
1. Study of the Word
2. Fellowship
3. Community Outreach
4. World Mission Emphasis
FROM OLD SS MANUAL
“The SS was developed to teach the gospel of
Jesus Christ in response to the command of
Jesus, and in setting of the three angel’s
messages. In loyalty to this original purpose
the SS continues to communicate the good
news with objectives to WIN, HOLD and
TRAIN for Jesus Christ, men, women, youth,
boys and girls, in all the world”.
OBJECTIVES
1. Study of the Word. Sabbath School
helps student understand the
gospel and make a personal
commitment to Christ and His
Word. It helps grow spiritually
through study of the Bible and the
Spirit of Prophecy
OBJECTIVES
2. Study of the Word. Sabbath School
will help members develop a
devotional life and teach them how
to interpret and apply the principles
of the Scripture to their lives
OBJECTIVES
2. Fellowship. Sabbath School fosters
fellowship among members in weekly
Sabbath School programs
OBJECTIVES
2. Fellowship. Classes develop projects
for recruiting new members and
integrating them into the church life
OBJECTIVES
2. Fellowship. Sabbath School foster
ways to restore inactive members
OBJECTIVES
3. Community Outreach. Sabbath
School help members catch a vision of
the church’s mission in community,
train members for service and inspire
them to witness.
OBJECTIVES
3. Community Outreach. Classes can
develop programs to involve members
in soul winning activities
OBJECTIVES
4. World Mission Emphasis. Sabbath School
presents a clear vision of the global mission of
the church.
It promotes a personal, systematic, and selfdenying commitment to the support of the
world mission and foster in members a desire
to help fulfill the gospel commission.
IMPLEMENTATION OF OBJECTIVES
Study of the Word
1. Encourage members to study God’s Word
daily through the SS lessons. E.G. White has
counseled: “Every day some portion of time
should be appropriated to the study of
lessons” – Counsels on SS Work, p. 53
IMPLEMENTATION OF OBJECTIVES
“Parents, set apart a little time each day for
the study of the SS lessons with your children”
– Counsels on SS Work, p. 41
“Let SS lesson be learned, not by a hasty
glance at the lesson scripture on Sabbath
morning, but by careful study for the next
week on Sabbath afternoon, with daily review
or illustration during the week. Thus the lesson
will become fixed in the memory, a treasure
never to be wholly lost” – CSSW, p. 43.
IMPLEMENTATION OF OBJECTIVES
2. Urge all SS teachers to set a right example
to the class members by faithful daily study of
the SS lesson and to follow the plan of calling
attention to the importance of daily lesson
study by asking the class each week for a
show of hands as to how they are following the
Daily Lesson Study Plan
IMPLEMENTATION OF OBJECTIVES
Fellowship Emphasis
1. Lay plans to enroll in the SS every member
of the church, all their children, and other
persons who express a desire to become
members
IMPLEMENTATION OF OBJECTIVES
Fellowship Emphasis
2. Encourage and inspire regular and punctual
attendance at the SS by all its members.
Contact absentees as soon as possible and
maintain a relation of Christian fellowship with
them to encourage them in SS attendance
IMPLEMENTATION OF OBJECTIVES
Fellowship Emphasis
3. Plans shall be made in the local SS to
manifest true Christian hospitality, giving to all
who attend it a cordial welcome. Every
member should be encourage to be friendly
and hospital, and greeters should be
appointed to welcome at the door those who
come to SS
IMPLEMENTATION OF OBJECTIVES
Fellowship Emphasis
4. Hospitality could also be practiced by
making a plan in each SS to assure that
guests are entertained for Sabbath lunch
5. Praise and occasional testimonies may be
made a meaningful part of the SS
6. Teachers may arrange occasional meetings
of their classes for informal prayer, study, and/
or social activities
IMPLEMENTATION OF OBJECTIVES
Fellowship Emphasis
6. Teachers may arrange occasional meetings
of their classes for informal prayer, study, and/
or social activities
7. Lay plans for nurturing the spiritual life of
newly-baptized members, involving them as
soon and as continuously as possible in active
and meaningful service for
IMPLEMENTATION OF OBJECTIVES
Fellowship Emphasis
8. Maintain a spirit of Christian fellowship in
every aspect of the weekly SS program and
the auxiliary activities of the department
IMPLEMENTATION OF OBJECTIVES
Community Emphasis
1.Strength the church’s concern for the
spiritual needs of the community and
encourage each member to become trained in
the art of visitation and personal witness for
Christ
2. Make opportunities, and take advantage of
special days
IMPLEMENTATION OF OBJECTIVES
Community Emphasis
3. Encourage each class to set a goal for
souls, and actively foster & support the regular
community outreach programs carried on
under the auspices of the Sabbath School
IMPLEMENTATION OF OBJECTIVES
World Emphasis
1. Foster interest in missions by including time
for mission emphasis in each Sabbath’s
program in all divisions of the SS
2. Establish a goal for SS mission offerings,
and encourage liberality in giving for this
purpose
“To show a liberal, self-denying spirit for the success of foreign missions is a sure way to advance
home missionary work; for the prosperity of the home work depends largely, under God, upon the
reflex influence of the evangelical work done in countries afar off” – CSSW, P. 136
1852: Adventist Sabbath School begins
when James White wrote first Sabbath
School Lessons
1853: James White organized first regular
Sabbath School in Rochester, New York
1854:John Byington in Buck’s Bridge New
York
Early Sabbath School had only two
divisions (Adult & Children). They were
called Bible Class (emp. on Scriptural
memorizations)
1863: First Series of lessons for children
1863:Uriah Smith writes first adult
Sabbath School lessons
1869: G.H. Bell, a pioneer teacher becomes
first editor of the Youth Instructor
Bell introduces two series of lessons – one
for adult and one for children.
1877: Organization of in California and
formation of first state Sabbath School
Association
1878:(March) General
Sabbath
School
Association organized
1883: First Sabbath School Association
outside NA (Switzerland).
1886:Second Sabbath School Association
outside NA (England)
1901: General Conference re-organized,
the International Sabbath School became
Sabbath School Dept of GC
1985: Sabbath School becomes part of
newly created Church Ministries Dept
1995: Sabbath School combines with
Personal Ministries to become Personal
Ministries & Sabbath School Dept
HIGHLIGHTS OF SABBATH SCHOOL IN HISTORY
1853 FIRST SABBATH SCHOOL – ROCHESTER, NEW YORK, FOUNDED BY JAMES WHITE
1863 FIRST SERIES OF SABBATH SCHOOL LESSONS ADAPTED FOR CHILDREN
FIRST ADULT SABBATH SCHOOL LESSONS WRITTEN BY URIAH SMITH
1877 STATE SABBATH SCHOOL ASSOCIATION FORMED IN CALIFORNIA AND MICHIGAN
1878 GENERAL SABBATH SCHOOL ASSOCIATION FORMED
1879 FIRST BRANCH SABBATH SCHOOL ORGANIZED
1885 FIRST SABBA TH SCH OOL MIS SIO N OFFERING; CONTRIBUTED BY OAKLAND, CALI FORNIA F OR AUS TRAL IA N MISSIO N.
SABBATH SCHOOL WORKERS BEGINS PUBLICATION
1886 FIRST KINDERGARTEN DIVISION, BATTLE CREEK, MICHIGAN
1889 SENI OR SABB ATH SC HO OL LESS ON QUARTERLY BEGUN. FI RST SBBATH SCHOOL QUAR TERLIES P RINT ED IN L ANG UA G E
OTHER THAN ENGLISH: DANISH, SWEDISH, FRENCH AND GERMAN
1901 INTERNATI ON AL SABB ATH SC HO OL ASSOCI ATI ON REPLACED BY SABBATH SCHOOL DEP ARTME NT O F TH E GE NER AL
CONFERENCE
1909 PLAN FOR WEEKLY SABBATH SCHOOL MISSION OFFERINGS ADOPTED
1911 PRIMARY QUARTERLIES ORIGINATED IN AUSTRALIA
1912 FIRST THIRTEENTH SABBATH OFFERING TAKEN
1913 JUNIOR QUARTERLIES CREATED IN AUSTRALIA
1919 BIRTH – THANKS OFFERING INTRODUCED
1925 INVESTMENT PLAN ADOPTED
1952 CENTENNIAL OF SABBATH SCHOOL
1956 FRIST SABBATH SCHOOL MANUAL PUBLISHED
1982 CORNERSTONE CONNECTIONS BEGINS PUBLICATION – SABBATH SCHOOL LESSONS FOR TEENS
1990 NORTH AMERI CA N DI VISI ON PUB LISHES THE FIRST JUNIOR- TEEN PLUS PROGRAM HELP S WIT H A CTIVE LEAR NIN G
OPTIONS FOR JUNIORS AND EARLY TEENS
1995 SABBATH SCH O O L/PERS ON AL MINISTRI ES DEPT ESTABLI SHED GENERAL CONFERENCE CHIL DRE N’S MINI ST RIES DE PT
ESTABLISHED
2000 GRACELINK PUBLISHED – FIRST INTERNATIONAL CURRICULUM DEVELOPED FOR SDA CHURCH
Local church Sabbath School is a unit
of worldwide Sabbath School System
LOCAL CHURCH SABBATH SCHOOL IS
RESPONSIBLE FOR:
Appointing & Training class leaders
Developing Sabbath School Programming
Managing funds allocated by local church
Organizing itself in a way that its four
purposes are fulfilled: study of the Word,
fellowship, community outreach and world
mission emphasis
The officers of the Sabbath School report
to Sabbath School Council
Sabbath School Council report to the
Church Board
SABBATH SCHOOL MEMBERSHIP
Sabbath School membership includes
members of every class in all divisions.
All Sabbath School leaders, class teachers
should be included on Sabbath School Records
Anyone wishing to join may join
Transferring from one class to another , or
dropping names is done by Secretary as
authorized by Sabbath School Council
SABBATH SCHOOL MEMBERSHIP
No formal transfer of membership, baptism &
waiting period required for membership
SABBATH SCHOOL COUNCIL
Important council in a local church
Without it Sabbath School will not achieve its
desire goals & Sabbath School will center
around one individual or group
It strives to make Sabbath School a true
place of evangelism and nurturing
Its main aim is soul-winning –
encouraging members to personal
witnessing
SABBATH SCHOOL COUNCIL
It strives to make Sabbath School
a TRUE PLACE OF EVANGELISM
AND NURTURING
Its main aim is SOUL-WINNING –
ENCOURAGING MEMBERS TO
PERSONAL WITNESSING
SELECTION OF SABBATH SCHOOL
PERSONNEL
Sabbath School Officers must be
baptized members
Chosen by church through nominating
committee
Appointed by Church Board
Selection by Sabbath School Council
recommended to Church Board for approval
SELECTION OF SABBATH SCHOOL
PERSONNEL
Election By the Church
Nominating Committee elects officers along
with other church officers. Sabbath School
officers elected by nominating committee are:
Sabbath School Superintendent, Sabbath
School Leader, Sabbath School Assistant
leader, Children Ministries Leader, Sabbath
School Secretary, Sabbath School Assistant
secretaries & Divisional Leaders
SABBATH SCHOOL COUNCIL
Members:
Sabbath School Superintendent
(Chairperson) , SS Leader & Assistant
Leaders, Sabbath School Secretary (Council
Secretary), Division Leaders, Assistant
Secretaries, Personal Ministries Leader, An
Elder appointed by board of elders & the
pastor
SABBATH SCHOOL COUNCIL
Responsibilities
Facilitates smooth running of the Sabbath
School
Anything that concerns the entire Sabbath
School
Plans for the year, including regular meetings
and trainings
Enables & empowers Children Ministries
department
SABBATH SCHOOL COUNCIL
Agendas:
Appointment of officers not elected by the
church
Appointing of adult class leaders
Developing or scheduling of training programs
Materials, equipment and facilities for various
divisions
SABBATH SCHOOL COUNCIL
Agendas:
Setting goals for offerings, membership and
attendance
Evaluation of overall program
Planning for community outreach
Other Sabbath School items that division or
the children’s coordinators may brings
SABBATH SCHOOL RECORDS
The Sabbath School Secretary is responsible
for keeping accurate records of Sabbath
School activities and reporting to the Sabbath
School Council and the Sabbath School
department of the local conference/mission
SABBATH SCHOOL RECORDS
Continuous Membership System
The Sabbath School uses a continuous
membership system. The class membership at
the close of year is carried over intact to the
next year
Secretary prepares new records based on the
last quarter of the year
SABBATH SCHOOL RECORDS
Continuous Membership System
Records from Children’s division, including
family information and birth date should be
maintained for purposes of children promotion
SABBATH SCHOOL RECORDS
The Master File
Sabbath School should keep a Master Record
File (it can be developed by local conference
Sabbath School dept or by the local church)
It may include membership, attendance,
membership, Sabbath offerings, Community
Guest days, daily study, baptisms, Branch
Sabbath School& summaries of quarterly &
yearly activities
SABBATH SCHOOL RECORDS
Sabbath School Class Records
Each class should have a class record (all
officers and class teachers should be recorded,
baptismal class, specialized ministries and
extension)
Children’s division should maintain a good
record (reports must include children’s division)
SABBATH SCHOOL RECORDS
Transferring Between Classes
Members or parents who want to transfer
their children to another class must first see
Secretary, who takes their request to Sabbath
School Council.
The Secretary will then adjust records
In Cases of Children, Let the children’s
ministries leader handle the request
SABBATH SCHOOL RECORDS
Offering Records
Class must keep records of offerings
it must have mission offering goal
invest offerings
Thanks Offerings & Thirteenth Sabbath
offerings
SABBATH SCHOOL RECORDS
Offering Records
Secretary must keep records of these
offerings
After the offerings are counted, the secretary
should turn the money over to church treasurer
The treasurer must issue a receipt
The secretary must keep good records of all
offerings collected
SABBATH SCHOOL RECORDS
Conference Reporting
Local conference provides a quarterly report
form. This report form ask for information about
both Sabbath School and Personal Ministries
SABBATH SCHOOL RECORDS
Conference Reporting
It normally asks for:
Sabbath School attendance
Bible studies given
Lay evangelistic campaign
Baptism from personal ministries
Piece of literature given
Investment and mission offering
Community service units
SABBATH SCHOOL RECORDS
Reporting to the Sabbath School Membership
The Sabbath School members must receive
updates on what the Sabbath School is doing
The weekly secretary’s report (though it is no
longer a part of regular Sabbath School program
– but individual churches may use it for weekly
reporting)
Well prepared and illustrated periodic reports
are best
SABBATH SCHOOL RECORDS
Reporting to the Sabbath School Membership
Well prepared and illustrated periodic reports
are best. It must have
- attendance goal
actual attendance
Offering goal
Actual offering
Daily study goal
Actual weekly daily study
Investment goal
DIVISION AND CLASSES
Beginner
Ages birth to 2 or 3 (depending on the needs of
the individual church).
In large Sabbath Schools, this group may be
divided into Beginner 1 (birth-12months), and
Beginner 2 (13months – 24 months)
DIVISION AND CLASSES
Kindergarten
Ages 3-5. Kindergarten are preschoolers; they
learn through their senses, by experiencing the
Bible lessons
Primary
Ages 6-9, grades 1-4. Not all primaries will be able
to read. The program and teaching methods Grace
Link are designed with nonreaders in mind.
Large churches may wish to divide into Primary 1
(grades 1-2) and Primary 2, grades 3-4
DIVISION AND CLASSES
Junior
Ages 10-12 or grades 5-6. In a small church, all
upper-grade children may study together in
Sabbath School.
Where earliteens need to meet with junior, the
division is designated as junior earliteen, and all
students study the PowerPoint lessons
DIVISION AND CLASSES
Earliteen (Optional)
Ages 13-14 or grades 7-8. When a large group
of children in this age range is present,
earliteens may be treated as a separate
division. This groups uses RealFaith lessons.
DIVISION AND CLASSES
Youth
Ages 15-18. If there are few young people of
this age, they should meet with the adults for
the program and have their own lesson study
group. (If more they should have their own
division)
When Sabbath School has youths, the SCC
should endorse youthful initiative & creativity,
while giving guidance on how to maintain the
basic objectives of the Sabbath School
DIVISION AND CLASSES
Young Adults
Ages 19-35. Where enough of this group is
present they should have their own division.
Or they meet with adults and have their own
lesson study group
SSC leaders must keep in mind the particular
needs of young adults in planning their
programs
DIVISION AND CLASSES
Adult
The adults form an integral part of SS. They are
like any other divisions.
World SS System provides the adult division
with the Adult Bible Study Guides in four editions:
Student edition
Teacher edition
Easy Reading edition
Large Print edition
DIVISION AND CLASSES
Extension
It is adult Sabbath School that cares for the
needs of shut-ins, people in isolated areas and
people who cannot regularly attend Sabbath
School.
The Extension Division provides them with
Sabbath School Bible study guides and makes
provision for their needs.
DIVISION AND CLASSES
Extension
Extension Division and Branch Sabbath are
two ways to extend your weekly Sabbath
School into the community
Extension serves our SDA members who are
unable to attend SS
Branch Sabbath Schools are evangelistic in
nature and designed to be a mission outreach
of the parent SS
DIVISION AND CLASSES
Extension
Extension Leader: The Extension Division
leader takes Sabbath School audio or video
tapes, Bible study guides, children’s papers and
other items to those who cannot attend due to
illness, age, or physical handicap. It may
include travelling workers, soldiers and
humanitarian workers
DIVISION AND CLASSES
Extension
Extension Leader: Less than three members
in Extension Division, Secretary takes care of
the them. More than ten, SSC should appoint
extension division leader.
The Leader reports to Sabbath School leader ,
and gives membership, daily study and offering
figures to Secretary
DIVISION AND CLASSES
Extension
Extension Leader:
Time Commitment
3Hrs per week for visits, telephone calls and
correspondence with isolated members. The
amount of time may vary with each individual
leader
The Leader is member of SSC
DIVISION AND CLASSES
Extension
Extension Leader:
Duties and Responsibilities
Compile and list of members of the Extension
Division
Maintain regular contact with members of the
extension division. This may be done in number
of ways; visitation, letters or telephone calls
DIVISION AND CLASSES
Extension
Extension Leader:
Provide members with SS Bible study guides,
children’s papers, videos (CDs, DVDs), world
mission reports, offering envelopes, record cards,
and other SS supplies
Submit a complete report of the membership
and offerings of the SS Secretary
Look for possibilities of starting Branch Sabbath
SS near shut-in member
DIVISION AND CLASSES
Sabbath School Organization in Local Church
SABBATH SCHOOL SUPERITENDENT
SABBATH SCHOOL LEADER
ASSISTANT LEADER
Missions, Outreach, Children
Ministries, etc
Children’s
Division
Junior &
Teens
Division
Youth &
Adult
Young
Adults
Division
Division
DIVISION AND CLASSES
Promotion
Promotion from one division to another takes place
twice a year, but may take place anytime according to
the needs of a particular child.
Promotion based on child’s age or grade in school
SSC must plan a general Promotion Day so each
division is prepared to promote some students and
welcome others
Ideally promotion should be 20-30minutes on the
last day of the quarter
DIVISION AND CLASSES
Promotion
Make promotion day a special day
Offer special prayers for those promoted
Give certificates
Welcome children promoted into new class
(introduce them to the class, and give them a
certificate of membership in new division)
Each child with their SS Cards, with their names,
birth-date, parent contact, should be transferred to
new division
WAYS TO ORGANIZE THE WORK SS
LEADERS
Two ways for SS leaders to organize themselves:
Each Leader is assigned a certain number of
programs during the year and plan for all activities for
the assigned Sabbaths
Each Leader takes charge of different aspect
of SS and plans activities within that area of
responsibilities for the entire year
RESPONSIBILITY FOR PLANNING CLASS
LEADERS’ MEETING
Every SS should have a class leaders’ meeting
(Children’s leaders, Bible Study Class teachers,
etc)
Agendas for the meeting
1. Study of the Week’s Lesson
2.Continuing education of teaching techniques and
methods
3. Discussion of any general problems that need
attention
RESPONSIBILITY OF SABBATH SCHOOL
PERSONNEL
Superintendent
It is the responsibility of the superintendent to
administer the entire SS
RESPONSIBILITY OF SABBATH SCHOOL
PERSONNEL
Superintendent
Role: Encourage implementation of SS goals
and objectives
Following people report to SS Superintendent
SS Leader and Assistant leaders, SS
Secretaries, Divisional leaders, Branch SS
leaders, etc
Superintendent reports to SS Council, Church
Board and Local Conference SS director
RESPONSIBILITY OF SABBATH SCHOOL
PERSONNEL
Superintendent
Time Commitment
Superintendent or leader(s) should be on duty
each Sabbath at least half a hour before SS
begins to make sure all adult classes are
functioning
Two hours per month for attending SSC
Two hours attending Church Board
RESPONSIBILITY OF SABBATH SCHOOL
PERSONNEL
Superintendent
Time Commitment
Two hours for training and caring for other
administrative duties
Spend time in studying Word and Prayer and
planning ways in which SS can reach its
objectives
RESPONSIBILITY OF SABBATH SCHOOL
PERSONNEL
Superintendent
Providing Leadership
Supervise all leaders of adult SS and
encourage them as they perform their duties
Arrange for training, support and resources
needed for effective leadership
1. Help adult SS leaders to prepare budgets
to SSC
2. Determine needs for equipment and
supplies in adult
RESPONSIBILITY OF SABBATH SCHOOL
PERSONNEL
Superintendent
Providing Leadership
Arrange for training, support and resources
needed for effective leadership
3. Encourage leaders and teachers to attend
appropriate training events
Check SS Secretary on adequacy of and
records and accuracy and promptness of
quarterly reports to the conference SS Director
RESPONSIBILITY OF SABBATH SCHOOL
PERSONNEL
Superintendent
Providing Leadership
Foster the development of adequate
collection of SS books, cassettes, and videos in
the church library
Be on hand early Sabbath morning to
coordinate activities and answer questions
Work closely with the pastor, especially in
planning of training, community outreach events
RESPONSIBILITY OF SABBATH SCHOOL
PERSONNEL
Superintendent
Chairing SSC
Call monthly meetings of SSC
Call quarterly planning sessions where future
plans and calendars for the divisions can be
coordinated
Call a yearly planning session soon after
election of SS officers and outline events for
entire year
RESPONSIBILITY OF SABBATH SCHOOL
PERSONNEL
Superintendent
Chairing SSC
Prepare the agenda for SSC meetings
Represent adult SS interests on the Church
Board (Children Ministries Leader represents
children’s interest)
SABBATH SCHOOL SUPERITENDENT
BUILDING A SOUL-WINNING SS
1. Implement the four SS objectives:
Promote Bible Study and effective class
teaching
Foster Christian fellowship
Encourage Community outreach activities
Cultivate support for world mission
2.Plan with leaders for evangelism in promoting
Branch SSs, Community Guest Days (not
necessarily on Sabbath), Friendship evangelism,
Vacation Bible School and class outreach
opportunities
SABBATH SCHOOL SUPERITENDENT
BUILDING A SOUL-WINNING SS
3. Plan for reclaiming of inactive members
4. Help in keeping of SS membership up-todate
5. Plan for strong program of world mission &
mission education in all divisions
6. Plan hospitality & care of visitors
7. Plan with adult division leaders for growth.
Always look for ways to add new members
(single mothers, special interest groups,
women, single, prospective members, etc
BUILDING A SOUL-WINNING SS
“The Sabbath School should be one of
the greatest instrumentalities and the
most effectual in bringing souls to
Christ” – Counsels of Sabbath School
Worker, p. 10
SABBATH SCHOOL SUPERITENDENT
BUILDING A SOUL-WINNING SS
8. Encourage activities outside of SS time, such
as bung kaikai, picnic, nature walks and other
social activities
9. Make sure the extension division is
functioning properly
HOW
TO
ORGANIZE
YOUR
ASSISTANTS / SS LEADERS
1. Each leader must be assigned a certain
number of programs during the year and
plans all the activities for the assigned
Sabbaths
2. Each leader takes charge of a different
aspect of SS and plans activities within
that area of responsibility for the entire year
SS leader must work closely with pastor &
PM leader so that outreach plans for the
church are coordinated
Plan and direct Sabbath School in
Community
Plan with division leaders and teachers for
class outreach activities
Plan for Community Guest Days
Sponsor Friendship evangelism
Plan for Decision Days
Organize and run Vacation Bible School and
do follow-ups with families of neighborhood
children
Plan for Branch SS
Develop a follow-up system for guests and
other prospective members
SS Secretary
Analyze the local membership situation by
checking SS membership with church
membership
Maintain an up-to-date list of addresses and
phone numbers of members and prospective
members
Assign the names of inactive members to
classes for visitation & follow-up
SS Secretary
Foster the visitation of members who are
occasionally absent from SS
Help integrate newly baptized members &
transferred members into the SS program
Attend SSC and report on membership &
activities and plans for membership
Recruit and train members to become
greeters who meet members and guests on
Sabbath morning
Arrive early on Sabbath morning to make
sure that there are greeters & observe how to
improve the greeting process
Work with divisional leaders to devise a plan
for welcoming visitors, recording their names
and addresses and phone numbers
Work with divisional leaders to make sure an
interesting mission emphasis is provided each
Sabbath in SS programs
See that each division has mission story for
their age level and are using it (can use
mission DVDs)
Work with division leaders to help increase
mission giving by helping with such things as
maps or pictures, bulletin board displays,
DVDs etc
Provide regular information about projects,
needs, goals and special offering
Plan special events to promote mission such
as: mission conferences, mission theme days,
mission study groups, mission prayer circles,
mission trips and mission bung kaikai
Ideas for World Mission Report
Have mission quiz
Plan a kit
Try a dialogue in giving mission report
Report on mission trips (local & overseas)
Correspond with missionaries working in
another country. Write to them, and pray for
them
Get an overseas phone connection (and talk
to someone or missionaries
Ideas for World Mission Report
Use maps – show exactly where story took
place
Liven the story with costumes – ask people
to dress in costumes for special mission
programs
Use panel discussion
Plan a 13TH Sabbath program
Ideas for World Mission Offering Promotion
Work with divisional leaders & SSC to set
goals for weekly mission offerings, Investment
offerings & 13th Sabbath offerings
Promote Investment
See that Birth-day Thank Offering is taken in
all divisions
Promote 13th Sabbath Offering, setting goals
Keep members informed about how they are
doing in reaching their mission offering goals
Role
The SS Secretary cares for the records,
supplies, offerings and clerical details of the
SS and its divisions. In large churches, these
duties may be shared with one or more
assistants.
Line of Authority
SS Secretary reports to SS Superintendent.
The secretaries in other divisions report their
membership to the SS Secretary.
Class secretaries report to SS Secretary for
information on membership, attendance, daily
lesson study and offerings
Commitment
10hrs a month plus Sabbath duties
The Secretary or the assistant must be on
duty every Sabbath
Duties & Responsibilities
It is the duty of the Secretary to attend to the
clerical work of the SS, keeping records and
statistics, oversee supplies, provide
communication and care for the SS offerings
Keeping Records & Statistics
1. Distribute & collect the class cards, offering
envelopes and personal ministry reports
2. Check record cards, fill in omissions, count
and record offerings
3. Promptly enter all weekly statistics into the
SS Record Registry
4. Get a receipt from treasurer for all SS
offerings
Keeping Records & Statistics
5. Transfer the names of all class members to
the new SS class records each quarter and
at the beginning of the year
6. Maintain a SS membership file including
baptized, inactive and prospective members
7. Maintain the weekly, monthly, quarterly and
yearly records required
8. Keep minutes of SSC meetings on
permanent file
Keeping Records & Statistics
7. Maintain the weekly, monthly, quarterly and
yearly records required
8. Keep minutes of SSC meetings on
permanent file
9. Preserve all records and pass them on to a
successor
Maintaining Supplies
1.Ordering SS supplies from ABC as
authorized by SSC
2. Provide the SSC with a recommended list
of supplies for their approval (must be
updated each quarter)
3. Request supplies needed from the
conference
4. Keep SS supplies in open place where they
can be distributed easily each week
Providing Communication
1. Send or telephone announcements of the
SSC
2. Keep minutes of SSC meetings
3. Pass on information from Conference SS
dept about workshops, trainings,
seminars, new policies, and new
materials, etc
Providing Communication
4. Keep SS & all its divisions informed of progress,
trends, plans and achievements through occasional
reports during regular program
5. Compile and complete & accurate SS report
6. Prepare a monthly and quarterly statistical
reports for the SSC
7. Prepare a list of inactive or missing members to
be given to the class or divisional leaders
Providing Communication
8. Send a list of names of SS officers and
divisional leaders to the conference SS dept
as soon as the election is done
9. Keep SS membership aware of the
progress of the SS through regular reports
10. Make sure all SS meetings are publicized
in the church bulletin
Attending Meetings
1. Participate in SSC meetings, take notes,
write minutes and provide copies to all
members
2. The Secretary or assistant may be asked to
attend regular adult teachers’ meetings to
keep record of any recommendations for the
SSC
Attending Meetings
3. The Secretary works with leaders to keep
an accurate and up-to-date membership and
attendance records
Caring For Offerings
1. Collect the offering envelopes from each
class
2. Count the money, record the amount and
turn over funds to treasurer as soon as
possible and get a receipt
3. Keep a permanent file of receipts
4. Approve bills for SS materials and supplies
before treasurer pays them
Caring For Offerings
5. Ask the treasurer for regular monthly
financial statements
ASSISTANT SECRETARY
It is the responsibility of the assistant
secretary to:
1. Perform the duties of the secretary in
his/her absence
2. At the direction of the secretary, perform such
tasks such: distribute and collect supplies, share in
the responsibility of caring for the supplies, help
count offerings, help with record keeping, fulfill
specific regular responsibilities as assigned
It is the role of receptionists to make
atmosphere of the church warm & inviting.
The receptionist’s task is to set the climate for
the SS, make others feel comfortable,
welcomed and loved. They are to make
friends with strangers
Duties and Responsibilities
1. Become acquainted with the regular
members so they can recognize visitors when
they arrive
2. When approaching guests introduce
themselves first, extend a welcome, then ask
for visitor’s name
3. Introduce the person to someone who will
show them a seat or help them find SS
classes or the parent’s room
Duties and Responsibilities
4. Introduce newcomers to one or two people
in the church with whom they might feel
comfortable
Making People Feel Comfortable
1. Church must appear personal and caring to
all who walk through the doors, including
members & visitors
2.Try to sense the needs of people arriving in
the church for the first time (needs as
restrooms, children’s room, classes). It is
good to have a church map in the foyer
Making People Feel Comfortable
3. Arrange someone to greet people in the
parking lot (assist with umbrellas on rainy
days)
4. Be alert to people carrying children or other
materials
5. Educate regular members about the
importance of mixing and talking with
visitors after the service
What People Look for
1. People look for warmly, friendly place
2. Look for right kind of human contact
3. They expect courteous treatment and
expect to be recognized
4. They look for verbal and body language that
says, “You are welcome and accepted”.
Four General Categories who walk in
Church Doors
1. Unchurched people who for one reason or
another visit your church
2. Non-attending or occasionally attending
Adventists
3. People brought to church by friends,
relatives, acquaintance
4. Adventists from out of town or other
churches
Invitations for Lunch
Make sure church has plan to ensure that
visitors either invited to lunch or to someone’s
house
Small group lunch
Fellowship dinners
The leadership functions of the Adult and
Young Adult divisions are nearly identical.
They study the same Bible Study topics
They may meet together for SS programs
and then divide in separate classes
They may also function as separate
departments (if church choose)
LEADER
The role of the division is to oversee the SS
programs and lesson study of the division
He/she reports to SS superintendent & to the
SSC
Works closely with SS Secretary & teachers,
song leader, pianist and greeters
LEADER
Duties and Responsibilities
Leader’s responsibilities fall into main
categories:
Leadership Development
Planning weekly programs
Communication
Leadership Development
Recommend names of teachers or
discussion group leaders to the SSC
Plan and chair weekly teachers’ meeting
Attend, and encourage other officers and
teachers to attend SS workshops and
leadership training seminars
Leadership Development
Make available to division teachers helpful
training courses and other materials for self
improvement
See that church library has the necessary
resources in the areas of teaching techniques,
programs, ideas, world mission education,
Bible study aids & maps
Planning Weekly Programs
Serve as a member of the SSC
Present requests to the SSC for needed
supplies, equipment, or personnel
Lead in planning weekly programs
Lead in planning for periodic social and
fellowship activities for the division, such as
banquets, picnics, retreats, camping weekend
& various kinds of class social activities
Planning Weekly Programs
Coordinate division activities with the local
church calendar activities
Lead in the development of a yearly plan for
community outreach events such as
Community Guest Day, Friendship Evangelism
& Branch SS, working closely with Personal
Ministries Leader
Planning Weekly Programs
Plan for classes of 12 or 15 members
Promote the five Sabbath School Offerings:
weekly mission offerings, 13th Sabbath
offering, Birthday-Thank Offering, Investment
Fund & SS expense offering
Planning Weekly Programs
Schedule the divisions that will participate in
the 13th Sabbath programs
In consultation with the church pastor, plan
for a Pastor’s Bible Class for new members
and other interested people
Communication
Inform SS teachers and officers of
conference sponsored training seminars or
workshops
Arrange for SS programs to be printed in the
church bulletin
Communication
Advertise special SS programs & Outreach
activities through announcements, bulletin
notices, newspaper articles and bulletin board
notices
Visit classes regularly
Plan for ways to express appreciation and
affirmation to the volunteers who staff the SS
Each class should have a leader, who is
responsible for all aspects of class
management, such as:
Attendance records
Welcoming visitors
Distribution of materials, etc
Responsibilities of Class Leader
Be acquainted with class members, their
interests, spiritual journeys and needs
See that members receive their Bible Study
Guides in the edition that will benefit them
most (GC provides four editions: Standard,
Teacher’s Guide, Large Print & Easy
Reading)
Watch for visitors and invite them to class
Responsibilities of Class Leader
Welcome all class members, introduce
guests and help provide an atmosphere of
warm fellowship for members and guests
Take attendance record
Deal with missing class member appropriate
to their circumstance and needs,
encouraging class members to call, visit or
send cards
Responsibilities of Class Leader
Encourage class members in the community
outreach endeavors sponsored by the
church and the Personal Ministries Council
Promote the world mission offering
Set a class offering goal and take up the
weekly world mission offering
Find creative ways to encourage class
members to get involve with the world
missions
Class Leader & Study of God’s Word
It is the responsibility of the class leader to SS
class in a meaningful & redemptive study of
God’s Word through creative & effective
teaching methodologies
Teach the lesson or serve as discussion
leader
Encourage daily study
Attend teachers’ meetings and teacher
trainings
Seek to involve the student in discussion
and active learning
Be aware of the characteristics of adult
learners and their life issues and strive to
meet those needs
YOUTH SS LEADER
Youth SS Leader coordinates programs that
acquaint youth from 15-18 years (high school)
with the gospel and to lead them to make a
commitment to Christ and the mission of the
Seventh-day Adventist Church.
YOUTH SS LEADER
Line of Authority.
The Youth SS Leader reports to the SSC and
also cooperates with the SS Secretary, world
missions coordinator and the coordinator for
evangelism. Class leaders and youth staff are
responsible to the leader.
Duties & Responsibilities.
Learn about the physical, emotional,
intellectual and moral development and
characteristics of youth. Understand their
developmental needs and seek to meet those
needs
Give a sense of continuity and security to
youth through regular attendance and
beginning each program on time
Maintain appropriate discipline
Communicate unconditional love & acceptance
Duties & Responsibilities.
Learn each youth’s name and make contact
with each of them as often as possible outside
of the SS setting
Duties & Responsibilities.
Plan interesting program that will meet the
development needs of the youth
Maintain open communication with the parents
or guardians about the goals and objectives of
the program, special events, the faith
development their youth and any serious
behavioral problems
Duties & Responsibilities.
Get acquainted with the families and
understand the particular needs of the youth
Role of the Youth SS Class Leader
The class leader is acquaint the youth in SS
from ages 15-18 with the gospel and lead
them to make a commitment to follow Christ
and to become involved in the mission of the
Adventist Church
Role of the Youth SS Class Leader
The youth SS class leader reports to the Youth
Leader. The class teacher is expected to
attend the teacher’s meetings and planning
sessions
Duties & Responsibilities
It is the duty of the youth class leader to
serve as a friend and counselor, support the
program, teach lesson and administer to the
youth in class
The Leader SS class leaders share many of
the same responsibilities toward the youth and
youth SS as the leader
Adult SS Format
The SSC, under the leadership of SS
Superintendent, decides of the format of the
program.
Whatever format is used, the four basic
purposes of the SS should be included: Study
of the Word, Fellowship, Community
Outreach & World Mission.
Ellen G. White gives clear counsel on SS
programs:
Innovation & Creativity
“Coordinators and the workers in our Sabbath
Schools have a very important, broad field to
cultivate. They need to be baptized with the
Holy Spirit of God, that their minds may be
impressed to used the very best methods, and
follow the best plans to make their work wholly
successful” – Counsel on Sabbath School
Work, p. 11
Ellen G. White gives clear counsel on SS
programs:
Innovation & Creativity
“Different mind and qualities will bring in fresh
ideas, fresh lines of thought, and this is
essential” – Counsels on Sabbath School
Work, p. 165
Mechanical vs. Interactive
“The of the SS should not be lost sight of in
mechanical arrangements, thus occupying
time which should be given to the other
important matters. We should ever be guarded
against forms and ceremonies which eclipse
the real object for which we are laboring.
There is a danger of carrying system to such
an extreme that the SS become weariness,
when on the contrary, it should be a rest
Mechanical vs. Interactive
“ A refreshment and blessing. There is
altogether too much dependence placed upon
form and machinery, while the life-giving
power of God is not manifested for the
conversion of souls, for whom Christ died. The
order of things must be changed if our SS
meet the purposes of which they exist”
Counsels on Sabbath School Work, p. 151 157
Key Elements of Adult SS Programs
Participation & Interaction
The more participation and interaction that is
built in the SS programs, the more learning
and personal application takes place
Key Elements of Adult SS Programs
Creativity & Innovation
The more interesting and appealing program
is, the more people will learn. SS programs
that consist mostly of one person doing all the
talking from the front of the meeting place, in
spite of how good the content might be, have
very little effect on the students
Key Elements of Adult SS Programs
Outreach and Evangelism
Research and experience show that SSs are
not really successful unless they include
elements of outreach & soul winning.
“The SS should be one of the greatest
instrumentalities, and the most effectual, in
bringing souls to Christ” Counsels of Sabbath
School Work, p. 10
“It has been proved in the missionary field that,
whatever may be the preaching talent, if the
laboring part is neglected, if the people are not
taught how to work, how to conduct meeting, how to
act their part in missionary labor, how to reach
people successfully, the work will nearly be a
failure. There is much to be done in the SS work,
also, in bringing the people to realize their
obligations and act their part. God calls them, and
ministers should guide them” – Counsels on SS
Work, p. 184
Simple & Traditional Program
(Exact time vary)
9:15 – Song Service
9:30 Opening Remarks & Welcome Prayer
9:35 Keeping on Course
9:40 Musical Selection
9:45 World Mission Report
9:55 Class Time
- Class Activities (10min)
- Lesson Study ( 30min)
10:35 Closing Remarks
More Dynamic Traditional Program
(Exact time vary)
The format is the same as the traditional and
follows the same time frame. However, more
time & planning go into the program
-Train people to read & speak well in public
-Practice the program
-Less formal – more participation by the
students
Modified Traditional Program
(Exact time vary)
A modified traditional program uses the same
time frame, but the activities are different. Not
all elements are included every week. The time
is spent focusing on some issue, concern, real
life matter of interest to the students. Activities
might include personal growth seminar,
outreach training, and training and certification
of SS teachers
Full Time Learning Format
A full time learning format means the entire SS
time, usually about an hour and half to two
hours is devoted to learning activities. The
objective is interactive learning and
participation that meets students’ needs.
Time frame is suggestion. Lesson study time
be done before or after the mission feature or
at the very beginning of the SS activities.
Full Time Learning Format
9:00 - Family Fellowship – singing, group activity,
greeting, opportunity to share & talk together
9:25 – Group Activity (Children go to divisions)
9:40 – Mission Feature or Personal Ministry Training
9:50 – Training or Nurture Seminar
10:20 Lesson Study
10:50 Closing
The segments represent the nature of the activity and
the time spent. The size of the segment may vary from
week to week
1. Traditionalists
2. Fellowship Oriented
3. Those who wish to do in-dept Bible study
4. Social Action groups
5. Multiple interest groups
A SS Action Unit is a small group SS
organized in a way that provides time for
sharing, Bible study and systematic planning
for outreach
SS Action Units provide support for
fellowship, caring atmosphere, inspiration
and training needed for bringing back
missing members
SS Action Units are continuous training
schools. They provide weekly promotions
and training in the practical skills of soul
winning. Outreach leaders, care coordinators
& SS Action Units leaders are all involved in
this important training
How to Build a Successful SS Action Unit
1. Classes to 6 – 8 members. Classes are
formed into groups of 6-8 for optimum
participation. Participation is vital to
understanding, spiritual growth and outreach.
In a small group of 6-8 members feel free to
share their life experiences. The more we know
the circumstances that form the lives of the
fellow members, the more we understand and
love them and are encouraged to support one
another
How to Build a Successful SS Action Unit
2. Outreach
Leaders. Each class should
have an outreach leader called a care
coordinator who is an assistant to the
church personal ministries leader.
Assisted by a secretary the care coordinator
promote outreach according to the class
plan.
How to Build a Successful SS Action Unit
The care coordinator should be a loving,
concerned, active member with a burden for
souls who develop a network of enthusiastic,
well trained soul winners. This person should
be a tactful, enthusiastic, preserving member
who can cooperate with the PM leader and
other care coordinators. The objective is to
give simple, practical, on-the-job training to
fellow class members
How to Build a Successful SS Action Unit
3. Outreach Plans. Specific class outreach
plans are developed immediately after class
organization at the a special training session.
Little or nothing will be accompanied with a
plan. With a plan, unlimited results are
possible. The care coordinator leads the class
in planning
How to Build a Successful SS Action Unit
4. One Hour Class Time. To accomplish the
purpose of a SS Action Unit, it is vital to
provide an hour for class. Twenty-five minutes
are developed to outreach at the beginning of
the class, followed by thirty-five minutes for
lesson discussion. This adjustments can be
made with careful planning. It will mean
shortening the opening segments to allow for
one hour for classes
Special days are important outreach tools,
and planning for them should be an integral
part of the Sabbath School annual program.
Follow-up plans are vital aspect of these
special days and should be included in the
planning process.
Plan
short
enthusiastic
programs.
Remember that special days are designed to
capture interest and help create to attend
further services of the SS and church
How to Organize Special Days
1. Advertise the special day
2. Ask all members to invite relatives, friends,
neighbors, those who have been contacted
through Vacation Bible School (VBS), and
especially non-attending church members,
the SS Secretary should provide names of
non-attending persons
3. Send written invitations to all former SDA
members in the community
How to Organize Special Days
4. Appoint a telephone committee to follow-up
the written and personal invitations with the
telephone calls
5. Display a poster in the foyer of the church
6. Include announcements in the church
bulletin about the special day
7. Appoint a welcoming & ushering committee
or engage existing one
8. Place a special basket or bouquet of flowers
on the platform
How to Organize Special Days
9. Select carefully those who participate in the
program. Choose persons who can read and
speak distinctly and can hold the interest of the
audience. Those who participate should
represent the church standards and
deportment
10. Select a special music suitable for the
occasion
11. Offer a small award to anyone bringing a
visitor. Change it frequently
How to Organize Special Days
12. Teachers may offer to take students home
for dinner for bringing a visitor
13. Make an extra effort to invite visitors
whenever there is a guest speaker of a special
SS program. Send out invitations with students
14. Make visitors feel at home as much as
possible. Ask them their names and where
they are from. Invite them back next Sabbath
How to Organize Special Days
15. Send thank you letters to people
responsible for bringing visitors. See that every
visitor receives a letter, a telephone call, or a
personal visit during the week following the
special day
16. Enroll new members in SS as soon as
possible. Make them feel a part of class
17. Keep a yearly scrapbook, files or records
of special days as resources for the following
years.
Adult SS class leader is critical to the success
of the SS.
All SS class leaders must persons with good
spiritual background, has strong prayer and
study life and has the spiritual gift of teaching.
Person asked to teach SS class must take the
responsibility seriously & be willing to devote
time to learning effective teaching skills.
“To the teacher is committed a most important work
– a work upon which he should not enter without
careful and thorough preparation. He should feel the
sacredness of his calling and give himself to it with
zeal and devotion” – Counsels to Parents, Teachers
& Students, p. 229
“It is the nicest (most exciting) work that was ever
entered upon by the human agent, the dealing with
the human minds”, Fundamentals of Christian
Education, p. 277
The SS class leader has a far greater
responsibility that the secular teacher. The
secular teacher’s purpose and responsibility is
to help students to acquire knowledge. The
Christian teacher is charged with the added
responsibility of inspiring those he or she
teachers to apply biblical principles to daily
living.
The SS class leader has three aims:
1. Facilitate Bible Learning
2. Motivate Spiritual Growth
3.Enable class members to develop
scripturally- oriented life styles
Teaching Skills
Based on the age level which a person is
teaching, certain fundamental teaching skills
are needed. These skills can be learned and
improved on thorough continuing education
“The LORD has made ample provision that teachers
may have increased ability from Sabbath to
Sabbath, that they may teach to some purpose,
working as for time and eternity” – Counsels on
Sabbath School, p. 104
Teaching Skills
1. Ability to teach in a variety of ways, all
leading to active learning and the involvement
of the students in discussion and analysis
2. The ability to formulate and ask class
participation and study
3. Attention-getting skills that encourages
interest & participation
Teaching Skills
4. The ability to help adult participants unlearn
erroneous concepts and learn correct ones
5. Sufficient biblical knowledge to teach what
the Bible says, both doctrinally and
experientially
Teaching Skills
Youth
1. Ability to promote active participation,
creativity & innovation
2. Impart biblical knowledge through interactive
experiences
3. Present biblical knowledge in a positive way
4.Encourage participation & positive responses
from peers
The SS system of the worldwide SDA
church offers opportunities to SS class
leaders for continuing education in the art
of teaching.
Teachers/leaders should take advantage of
these training opportunities to improve their
skills.
Adult Teaching Methods
Teaching is about learning. It’s what the
class leaders does – they facilitate learning.
And learning is the marking of meaning.
How do you do that? Through four (4) basic
processes known as the natural learning
cycle
1. Start with the “Central Concept”. What are
you trying to teach. Then follow the learning
cycle starting with create an experience (or
have them recall) in which they can
emotionally connect to the lesson. Once you
have connected to the Central Concept, then
work around the learning wheel
2. Share with them the expert information, logically
sequenced, in as may modalities, (visual, olfactory,
etc) as possible, using media creativity. And
remember, our brain can only meaningfully absorb
12 to 16 minutes of information an hour
3. Apply what they’ve learned to their personal life.
Test to see if they understood what you taught. This
is where they make what you’ve taught them
4. Explore what new possibilities this learning
opens up to their lives. Have them explore
ways to share the value of what the (see
book..
When we do this, we are applying the
principles Jesus taught: “Yet a time is coming and has
come now when the true worshippers will worship the Father in spirit
and truth, for they are kind of worshippers, the Father seeks. God is
spirit and His worshippers must worship in Spirit & truth” (John 4:
23,24)
SABBATH SCHOOL TEACHING AND
SEATING ARRANGEMENTS
Seating arrangements make a great deal of
difference in the effectiveness of teaching.
Most teaching arrangements are dependent
on the style of the church building
“With one of the most sacred responsibilities
of the entire church placed upon those who
are called to teach a Sabbath School class,
every possible effort should be made to fit
them fro the best performance or their task”.
Teachers Training Courses, p. 71.
The teachers’ meeting is one of the most
important aids for SS teachers. “God has
committed to our hands a most sacred
work, and we need to meet together to
receive instruction, that we may be fitted to
perform this work”- Testimonies, vol. 6,
p.32.
The need for teachers’ meeting is not
regulated by the size of the school or by
the efficiency attained by the officers or
teachers. There is no school that does not
need teachers’ meeting, and no
proficiency in the work of leading or
teaching can serve as a substitute.
The divisional leader (e.g. Adult Division)
should arrange for weekly teachers’ meeting.
He/she is the leader of the meeting.
Ideal time for teachers’ meeting is the middle
of the week
It is wise that one hour is given to teachers’
meeting
This meeting should look at teaching skills
Teachers should share their lesson teaching
plan
Should look at central truths of the week’s
lesson and eliminate aimless effort in teaching
Teachers learn from each other, and help
each other in identifying two/three fundamental
truths of the lesson
Teachers’ meeting should be attended all
teachers and associate/assistant teachers
Children’s teachers must meet on Thursdays
(teachers’ meeting for teachers’ of all divisions)
Branch Sabbath School Leader
It is the role of the Branch SS leader to
organize and conduct an evangelistic
program using SS materials to be held on
any day of the week. This role may be filled
by any SS leader, teacher, or member who
may wish to begin Branch SS
Branch Sabbath School Leader
Line of Authority
The Branch SS leader is responsible to the
SSC or to the local conference SS Director
in the case of isolated members. The
leader will also work closely with SS
Superintendent and other leaders
Branch Sabbath School Leader
The time to leader a Branch SS depends
on the scope and size of the program. One
should plan to spend a minimum of two
hours a week preparing the program and
another two hours for the program itself &
visitation
Branch Sabbath School Leader
The Branch SS leader’s duties fall into
three
categories:
organization,
programming and soul winning
Organization
1. Get approval from SSC for the necessary
financial support
2. Begin Small. It is possible to start with
one or two interested people. It is usually
best to begin by concentrating on one age
level: children, youths or adults
Organization
3. Find others to help with leadership as
required by the size of the group
4. Arrange for a place to hold the Branch
SS and decide on the time it will be held
5. Prepare announcements & invitations,
invite families, friends, neighbors & coworkers
Organization
6. Order lessons, program lessons and takehome papers for the children
7. Keep the pastor and the home SS
informed about the progress of the Branch
SS and the interest of individuals
Programming
1. Use SS materials and materials available
through Children’s Ministries
2. The meeting should follow the general
patterns of regular SS, though there may
be some need for adaption
3.Make the programs interesting and
appropriate to the age and experience of
Programming
of those who attend
4. Where specific Branch SS materials are
available, adapt materials use in the regular
SS, such as felt visual aid sets, picture sets,
songbooks, illustrated songs, lessons
program and activity materials
Soul Winning
1. Pray for the direction of the Holy Spirit
that people will be led to make decisions
for Christ
2. Encourage personal devotion on the part
of those attending, perhaps providing
Bibles for those who need them
3. Visit homes occasionally
Soul Winning
4. As you see spiritual growth taking place,
be ready with encouragement and help as
needed
5. Make your presentations Christ-centered
and share the story of salvation first. Avoid
controversial subjects (like Sabbath). Allow
the Holy Spirit to guide them into a loving
relationship with Christ
Soul Winning
6. When appropriate, invite members of the
Branch SS to participate in church functions
Branch SS
Branch SS is designed to create spiritual
interest and bring souls to a saving relationship
with Jesus. It may be conducted for children,
adults and youths.
Who Attends Branch SS
Church Members who are not SS members
Former members
Guests who visit the church
Vacation Bible School interests
Friends, neighbors & relatives
People responding to community survey
Interests from literature distribution
Hospital & prison visitation interests
Branch SS Location
Branch SS can meet in all kinds of places:
Private homes of members or interested
persons
Vacant Buildings – church, store, office
Nursing Home
Prison
Out of doors if weather permits
Branch SS Format
Branch SS usually follow the format of the
regular SS and use the same materials. The
only difference is when and where they meet
“The Sabbath School is an important branch of
the missionary work, not only because it gives
to young and old a knowledge of God’s word,
but because it awakens in them a love for its
sacred truths and a desire to study them for
themselves; above all, it teaches them to
regulate their lives by its holy teachings” –
CSSW, p. 10, 11.
“What diligent Bible study in the Sabbath School class and through the
week in the home can accomplish is outlined in this spectacular
promise:
“If the people of God would appreciate His Word, we would have a
heaven in the church here below. Christians would be eager, hungry , to
search the Word. They would be anxious for time to compare scripture
with scripture and to mediate upon the Word. They would be more
eager for the light of the Word than for the morning paper, magazines,
or novels. Their greatest desire would be to eat the flesh and drink the
blood of the Son of God. As a result their lives would be conformed to
the principles and promises of the word. Its instruction would be to
them as the leaves of the trees of life. It would be in them a well of
water, springing up into everlasting life. Refreshing showers of grace
would refresh and revive the soul, causing them to forget all toil and
weariness. They would be strengthened and encouraged by the world
of inspiration” – Testimonies, vol. 8, p. 193.
Daily Study Essential
“All who study the word are represented as eating the Word, feeding
on Christ… Even as the bodily necessities must be supplied daily, so
the word of God must be daily studied – eaten, and digested, and
practiced. This sustains the nourishment, to keep the soul in health.
The neglect of the word means starvation to the soul. The word
describes the blessed man as one mediating day and night upon the
truths of God’s Word. We are all to feast upon the Word of God. The
relation of the world to the believer is a vital matter. Appropriating the
Word to our spiritual necessities is the eating of the leaves of the tree
of life that are for the healing of the nations. Study the Word, and
practice the Word, for it is your life” – CSSW, p. 43, 44
Daily Study Essential
“As a means of intellectual training, the opportunities of the Sabbath
are invaluable. Let the SS lesson be learned, not by a hasty glance at
the lesson scripture on Sabbath morning, but by careful study for the
next week on Sabbath afternoon, with daily review or illustration
during the week. Thus the lesson will become fixed in the memory, a
treasure never to be wholly lost” – Education, pp. 251, 252.
Especially in these times of doctrinal uncertainty and testing:
“We need to search the Scriptures daily, that we may know the way of
the Lord, and that we be not deceived by religious fallacies. The world
is full of false theories and seductive spiritualistic ideas, which tend to
destroy clear spiritual perception, and to lead away from the truth and
holiness. Especially at this time do we need to heed the warning, “Let
no man
New Member Nurture
Include components in SS program to acquaint
new members and friends of the SS with the
functions and operations of the SDA around
the world.
Mood music and verse with visuals – a ten
minute period designed for meditation – a time
to think, reflect, and pray. This presentation is
best for DVD players & lap tops with data
projector.
New Member Nurture
Mission Spotlight.
10-13minutes DVD
program that spotlight the work of the SDA
church in one of the world division each
week/quarter.
Heritage of Seventh-day Adventist Church –
a concise review of the stories that tell the
beginnings of a faith that soon encircled the
earth
New Member Nurture
Orientation – a seven minute segment that
explains the unique terminologies, functions
and operations of the church. Power point
presentations is recommended.
The primary purpose of the SS is that of
all true education, to restore the image of
God in man and to prepare a people,
young and old, to meet their returning
Lord.
Personal work for every member to lead
them to Christ, to aid in their spiritual
maturity, and to prepare them to work for
others is the major objective of the SS
activity.
The inspired counsel is: “The object of the
SS work should be the ingathering of the
souls. The order of working many be
faultless, the facilities all that could be
desired; but if the children and youth are
not brought to Christ, the school is a
failure” – CWS, p. 61
Those who take part in soul winning in SS
grow spiritually : “No one can labor in the SS…
work without reaping a bountiful harvest, not
only in the end of the world, but in the present
life. In every effort to enlighten and bless
others, his own views will become clearer and
broader” – CSSW, p. 13, 14
A. Young Children Evangelism
Among avenues of soul winning open to SS is
child evangelism. The average child is more
susceptible to the gospel than is the average
adult. We are seeing more & more young
people baptizing these days.
A. Young Children Evangelism
1. Decision Days & Consecration Services
The goal of a Decision Day or decision
exercise is not limited to decision for baptism.
Cradle roll, kindergarten and primary children
are invited to respond to God’s love by loving
Jesus, promising to be obedient, kind, and
helpful children of God. Junior & earliteen
youth are invited to accept Christ as their
personal Savior & Guide, to
A. Young Children Evangelism
Junior & earliteen youth are invited to accept
Christ as their personal Savior & Guide, to
commit themselves faithfully to uphold the
beliefs and standards of Christ’s church, and to
consecrate their lives to His service.
A. Young Children Evangelism
Older youth and adults who are yet unbaptized
are invited to join a baptism class, along with
juniors and earliteens who re ready for this
step. All committed Christians are given
opportunity to accept Jesus anew, and again to
pledge their fidelity to the Bible truths,
Christian living, standards and Christian
witness.
A. Young Children Evangelism
The invitation to commitment may be made by
a teacher in his/her class, in which the
response may be given in personal
testimonies. In general assembly the leader
may call for new or renewed decisions for
Christ, and the response may be made by
raising hand or by standing.
DECISION DAYS & CONSECRATION SERVICES
SS department must work with each divisional days to
organize and make treat them as special. It was work
closely with the church pastor to have these days in
each division or plan it as a special program each
quarter.
SS is about evangelism – it is more than mere worship
program. It is about leading young & old to make
decision for their Savior.
B. Inactive-Member Evangelism
SS & SSC should devise plans to reach and
reclaim each non-attending member of
prospective member. Officers, teachers and
class members are to be involved. Each
should be encouraged to show Christ-like love
and concern.
B. Inactive-Member Evangelism
Many of these persons are ready and willing to
renew lost relationships, but are fearful to the
take the first step back.
One good way is have prayer and Bible study
group organized in their home.
To show genuine, loving concern for these is
true evangelism, the supreme objective of the
SS
C. The Class as an Evangelistic Unit
E.G.White: “The formation of small companies
as a basis of Christian effort has been
presented to me by One who cannot err” –
Testimonies, vol. 7, p. 21, 22.
“The Lord desires that those who are engaged
in the SS work should be missionaries, able to
go forth to the towns and villages that surround
the church” – Testimonies on Sabbath School,
p. 61.
C. Vacation Bible School
Vacation is a fruitful soul-winning program.
These schools can be organized during school
holidays.
Vacation program must include these four
aspects; spiritual, physical, social and mental.
The program must be innovative and creative.
In any evangelistic program, it takes times to build up
friendship & friendship as well as to teach the truth, so an
effective follow-up program should be used to maintain
contacts and interest.