As summer came to a close and students returned to their school routines, there was also excitement throughout the Sunday school departments in anticipation of Promotion Sunday. Teachers decorated classrooms, prepared special activities, and made ready to welcome their new classes with joy.

This year’s promotions took place on September 14, marking an important milestone in the lives of many young students. In the Beginner’s Department, where children first learn how to sit in class, recite the Lord’s Prayer, and sing songs such as “Heart, Heart” and “Jesus Loves Me,” ten graduates moved up to the Primary Department. Each first grader received a Bible inscribed to celebrate his or her graduation. Though they met their new teachers and entered their new classrooms with a bit of nervousness, they quickly relaxed and brightened as they completed fun icebreaker activities and settled in.

Meanwhile, in the Primary Department, students received backpacks filled with stickers, a spiral notebook, and crayons to start the new year. Then everyone celebrated the graduation of the fifth graders, who were waiting to join the Junior Department. These students, who four years prior had entered as wide-eyed first graders, left much more experienced and confident, ready for the next chapter. Teachers and classmates said fond goodbyes, and the new Junior Department students were greeted with warmth and enthusiasm.

The Junior Department also experienced transitions as the eighth graders moved on to the high school class. Before parting ways, the department marked the occasion with fellowship and treats, and teachers encouraged their students to carry forward the lessons they had learned together.

Though adults do not get the excitement of promoting from one class to another, the entire church family shared in the joy, cheering on the young people as they continue to grow in their faith.

As the new Sunday school year begins, may we all pray for God’s blessing on every student, teacher, and class—that the lessons taught each week will have a lasting, life-changing impact.

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