Three weeks ago when I was at church the bishop of my congregation (similar to a pastor) told me that he wanted to talk to me. That's always cause to be a little bit nervous wondering what sort of calling (or responsibility) he might ask you to be in charge of. I met with him later that day and he extended me the calling of being the Sunday School teacher to the 12 and 13-year-old youth. My bishop said that he feels like I have a lot to offer but am often underutilized. I tend to agree with that because I know that I AM very capable, but that my physical situation does cause me to be overlooked at times.
I'm of course nervous at the prospect of this new responsibility, but I'm excited, too. Teaching isn't what makes me nervous, it's more the fact that I have difficulty speaking loudly/fluidly, so that fills me with anxiety as I worry about the kids not being able to hear me well enough. I know I'll be nervous for the first few weeks as I settle in and as the kids get used to me, but with the Lord's help I know I'll be successful.
My first lesson is next Sunday and the topic is sexual purity. That's not a daunting subject, is it?! My mom taught this same age group about 20 years ago and her first lesson was ironically the one on sexual purity, too! One positive thing I have going for me is that I have the mentor of all mentors living with me! My mom has served as a teacher in our church to various youth/teenage classes for more than 30 years. She's an amazing teacher and is so knowledgeable, so I'm glad that I will be able to bounce ideas off of her and take advantage of her experience/expertise. Wish me luck!
You will be great! Those kids are lucky to have a teacher like you!
ReplyDeleteYou will be fabulous!! What a bunch of lucky 12-13 year olds to have YOU as there teacher!! I can't wait to hear how your first lesson goes!! ;)
ReplyDeleteThis reminds me of when I had to teach Sex Ed my first year of teaching. The good news is no other lesson will be as difficult from here on out. You will do great! :)
ReplyDeleteYou are one brave woman. All the best. You will be a blessing to those kids.
ReplyDeleteOh Heather this sounds like such a wonderful opportunity to touch the lives of the youth in your church. I think the bishop has some great intuition into who you are and what great influence you can have on the kids. Best of luck!
ReplyDeleteYou are gonna do AMAZING!! I'm a little jealous of those lucky kiddos that get to be mentored by you!
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ReplyDeleteTommy