By: Kassandra Aguilar
On June 12, 2025, Evangel Family Church, Mati, successfully hosted its first Sunday School Teachers’ Training, gathering 14 Sunday School teachers from Evangel Family branches in Mati, Macambol, Magum, and Catmunan. The goal of the training was to equip and inspire the teachers in their ministry to children. The event was blessed with the presence of Rev. Albert Poliño as the speaker, who shared valuable insights and practical strategies for teaching and discipling children.
The training started at 9:00 AM with an opening prayer led by one of the teachers. This was followed by a warm welcome and introduction of the speaker by Rev. Delia Miguel, who set the tone for the sessions ahead. The training was structured into five sessions—three in the morning and two in the afternoon.
The first session, titled “The Calling of a Teacher,” began with an icebreaker where each teacher introduced his or her name, age, and favorite food. This activity created a friendly and comfortable atmosphere. Rev. Poliño then asked the participants to reflect on two key questions: “Why do you want to be involved in Children’s Ministry?” and “What are your talents and gifts?” He emphasized three main objectives for every Sunday School teacher: relationship building, readiness, and being a role model. These qualities, he explained, are essential in effectively ministering to children. Rev. Poliño also spoke about the importance of having a vision for the ministry and anchored his teaching in key Bible verses, including Matthew 28:18-20, 1 Corinthians 12:27-30, and Ephesians 2:10. The session ended on a joyful note with games like “Tayo, Upo” and the “Garter Game.”
The second session focused on “Creative Ways to Prepare a Lesson and Discipleship.” Rev. Poliño shared age-appropriate teaching methods and practical tips for preparing lessons that are engaging and meaningful. He highlighted how discipleship is a vital part of a Christian’s journey and reminded the teachers that “your best ability is your availability.” The session also introduced arts and crafts ideas that could be incorporated into teaching. After this, the group enjoyed a short break with snacks.
The third session was on “Sharing the Good News of the Gospel with Children.” Rev. Poliño shared inspiring photos of children from EFC Gensan who had grown from students into teachers, now helping others come to know Jesus. He encouraged the participants to be passionate in teaching and reaching out to children, stressing how discipleship helps protect young hearts from worldly influences and draws them closer to Christ. At 12:00 PM, everyone shared a delicious and well-prepared lunch.
After lunch, the group reconvened at 1:00 PM for an open forum where the teachers asked questions, expressed their thoughts, and shared their experiences in ministry. This was followed by the fourth session, “4 Simple Fun Ways to Memorize Memory Verses.” Rev. Poliño introduced creative techniques to help children memorize Bible verses, including the use of pictures, motions, songs, and scrambled verses. The teachers actively participated in these activities and enjoyed the hands-on learning experience.
The final session was on “How to Be Effective in Teaching Bible Stories.” Rev. Poliño explained the importance of understanding children’s attention spans and adjusting teaching styles accordingly. He encouraged the teachers to always be prepared, consistent, and well-versed in the lessons they present to ensure effective teaching.
After the five sessions, the teachers worked together to create the Wordless Book, a simple yet powerful tool for sharing the Gospel with children. This book contained five colors—yellow (heaven), black (sin), red (the blood of Jesus Christ), white (cleansing from sin), and green (spiritual growth). The Wordless Book provided a creative way to help children understand and receive salvation. After crafting their books, the teachers practiced how they would present and explain its message to children, preparing themselves to use this tool in their future teaching.
The training concluded at 3:00 PM. Snacks were served, and a certificate of appreciation, along with a small token, was presented to Rev. Albert Poliño in gratitude for his valuable contribution. The event ended with a closing prayer, giving thanks to God for His guidance and blessing throughout the day.
The first Sunday School Teachers’ Training was a fruitful and inspiring event that strengthened the teachers’ commitment to their calling.
