Conducting a Sunday School Commissioning Service

In Matthew 28:19-20 Jesus told His disciples that they were to “go into all the world.” We commonly refer to this passage as the Great Commission and most often use it as the focal point for what every Christian’s task is to be. The word “commission” is defined by Webster as “to put into a state of readiness for service”. This is what being a Sunday School teacher is all about - serving those in our class. But, you might ask, where does the “being prepared” part come in? We should “commission” or “make ready for service” those who have agreed to serve as Sunday School teachers in our church.

Sunday School Done Right! - Leader Guide

Over the years, I’ve found that conducting a Sunday School teacher commissioning service at the beginning of each new Sunday School year has been very helpful. It is a time that draws substantial attention to the importance of Sunday School and its leadership team.

What’s involved in a commissioning service? Here are some key elements:

First of all, choose music that is very servant or stewardship oriented. Music plays such a key role in the atmosphere during a worship service. Plan the choir song or solo music to go along with the theme.
Second, enlist one or two Sunday School testimonies from active Sunday School teachers. Let them share what Sunday School means to them and how being a teacher has impacted their lives. This will motivate teachers and might help someone else consider teaching in the future.
Next, have the Minister of Education or Sunday School director share a few words. This might be similar to the Sunday School testimonies, but give it a more general topic - the purpose of Sunday School and its benefit to everyone involved.
Forth, present your teachers to the church. Have your division directors for each age group introduce the teachers for each class and have those people stand before the church. It is good for parents to see their children’s teachers. It is also good for the adults to see their teacher take a stand of commitment. Have each division director say a prayer over the teachers once they are introduced. You might also consider listing all your teachers by department in the service bulletin. This also will help your church members see who is serving in what position.
Last, present a motivational message from the Pastor or Minister of Education. This could also include a time of charging the teachers with their responsibilities as well as charging the church people to commit to be involved in Sunday School and to support their teacher.

Doing a commissioning service will help to motivate your teachers and will also create some accountability for the upcoming year. It will also help to show how important Sunday School is to accomplishing the Great Commission.

Sample Service

Prelude
Call To Worship Hymn  “Serve The Lord With Gladness”
Prayer
Welcome
Time of Fellowship   “What A Mighty God We Serve”
Sunday School Testimony
A Word From our Minister of Education
Offertory Hymn   “Make Me A Channel Of Blessing”
Offering
Sunday School Testimony
Special Music
Presentation of Sunday School Teachers by Division
Message
Hymn of Invitation   “Jesus Is Lord Of All”