The Lost Art of Sunday School Planning

No one denies the value of effective planning in American culture, but it appears that its practice often falls short of our rhetoric. Today even Sunday School planning appears to be a lost art among Sunday School practitioners.

There was a time in the Sunday Schools of America that planning was foundational in the implementation of Bible study and evangelism. A good portion of the time of an average Sunday School leader centered around ongoing planning with the classes and departments of the school. Planning held such a priority in the hearts of the teachers and officers that the best time on the church calendar was earmarked for this work.

But now, the average Sunday School does not set aside significant periods for ongoing planning for its leadership, and few leaders even know what is required in such planning sessions or how to conduct them if they were scheduled.

Is Planning Obsolete?
Can Sunday School exist without planning? Are people too busy today to even consider planning? Can occasional planning such as monthly meetings take the place of ongoing efforts?

Our world may be faster and more complex today than in the past, but the needs of people and the Sunday School organizations have not diminished. In fact, a greater need exists for planning today than ever.

The 21st Century is filled with opportunities for Sunday School leaders who understand the importance of ongoing significant planning. Our purpose is to build Great Commission believers, and that assignment is worth our time, our best efforts, our finest preparation, and our most productive energies.

Steps in Effective Planning
To reach the top, take time to develop a good plan. Build your plan using the following six steps. Note the first one. Don't start without it!

1. Prepare Spiritually. Growing a church through Sunday School is divine work. Begin with God!
2. Evaluate the state of your Sunday School.
3. Identify needs  that will be given specific attention during the immediate year.
4. Prioritize those needs.
5. Set annual goals related to the priority needs.
6. Plan actions to be taken to achieve goals, the people who will lead the actions, and dates the assignments are to be completed.

LifeWay Church Resources is committed to doing everything possible to partner with Sunday School leaders to address this vital part of ministry. Planning must become a priority among Sunday School leaders if we are to make the difference that is required of this generation.

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