The intrigues of being a Sunday school teacher in Nakuru's PCEA church
Monica Ng'ang'a has been a Sunday school teacher for five years.
Train up a child in the way he should go and when he is old, he will not depart from it. This scripture is a testament to how I remember the lessons from my Sunday School teacher.
The Sunday school rhymes, Bible verses, and dances are still fresh in my mind to this day. Many of us have that one memorable teacher we wonder about, marvelling at their dedication every Sunday.
Monicah Ng'ang'a reflects on her unexpected journey into the Sunday School ministry, despite being active in her church, PCEA Jerusalem parish in Kiratina, for years.
She began after a shortage of Sunday school teachers led to the church nominating people to join the children's ministry.
"I was nominated after a member of my home district noticed how well I worked with children. I was sceptical at first, but I prayed to God for guidance," she notes.
With no one else to take on the role, she stepped in and never looked back.
Five years later, she remains a strong supporter of Sunday School.
“Sunday School is where children come together to study and learn God’s Word. It is a crucial part of the church," she says.
Teacher Monicah asserts that the church cannot thrive without Sunday School, noting that as Sunday School grows, so does the church.
She emphasizes that being a Sunday school teacher requires a genuine passion for the job, as some join thinking it is easy but eventually fall away.
"When a teacher is not committed, it strains the other teachers. That's why it's important not to force anyone into the role," she says.
Mary Kiongo chose to become a Sunday school teacher immediately after finishing high school 25 years ago.
Mary Kiongo has been a Sunday school teacher for 25 years
"I was inspired by my Sunday school teacher, Teacher Kirigo, who did an exemplary job and remained dedicated even in her old age," she says.
Teacher Mary started by training children to perfect their performances for church music festivals.
She emphasizes that being a Sunday school teacher requires maintaining the highest level of confidentiality, as children often share details about their home lives.
"It's important to ensure that Sunday School is a safe place for kids. Sometimes we take on the responsibility of guiding and encouraging them," she notes.
She reveals that the ministry has since evolved, with most teachers now receiving training on how to deal with children, especially given the rising cases of mental health issues among young people.