As January has turned into February, we know that spring will soon be here! And this spring brings renewed hope and optimism for public school children in Shenandoah County! The School Board officially voted at their first meeting of 2022 to allow released time for Weekday Religious Education and plans are underway to reinstate this program in late March of this year.
Those who have been involved in this effort over the last several months are grateful to the members of the School Board for their support and we are working feverishly to be ready to begin this instruction. In accord with Supreme Court guidance, it will be conducted off school property at no cost to the school system and only for students whose parents give written permission.
The Bible will be the main text with many activities and songs enriching the instruction. These lessons will supplement and enhance the educational experience of students and reinforce other skills such as geography, history, reading, language arts, as well as performing arts and character education. In an age where bullying and suicides have increased, students need to know how much God loves them and that He has good plans for their lives. They also need adults who can pray for them and encourage them no matter what they may be going through.
Initially, this interdenominational Christian instruction will be provided to fourth grade students with plans to expand into second and third grades in future years. Students will be bussed to local venues who have graciously allowed the Shenandoah County Weekday Religious Education Association (SCWREA) to use their buildings; namely The Yellow Barn, Redemption Hill Church of the Nazarene, and Strasburg Presbyterian Church.
As plans have progressed, many individuals and organizations have stepped up to provide leadership and expertise as well as material support. We are grateful for a webpage that provides more detailed information at www.weekdayreligiouseducation.com. At this site, parents are encouraged to go ahead and enroll their fourth grade students and review frequently asked questions.
In addition, this website provides links to job descriptions and applications for various positions that need to be filled. Teachers, bus drivers, and aides will be vital ministry employees to make this program successful. If you aren’t personally interested but know someone who might be, please steer them our way.
We are also grateful to have a Facebook page that provides the latest updates and information. Search for SCWREA and join, like and share this resource with parents of elementary children as well as others who may be interested in partnering in this important endeavor.
Another crucial piece will be the financing necessary to purchase materials, pay employees, provide fuel, etc. Several individuals, businesses, and churches have already made contributions to help us get started, but much more will be needed. If anyone is so inclined, checks can be made and mailed to SCWREA, PO Box 634, Woodstock, VA 22664. All contributions are tax deductible thanks to the help of the Virginia WRE Association that has provided much organizational help and encouragement.
I also need to highlight the need for men and women to pray for this ministry, our leaders, our future employees, and most importantly our future students. This is God’s work and ministry and He has graciously given us the opportunity to partner with Him in it if we so choose. Please pray for wisdom, provision, and favor, as well as for the encouragement and salvation of all participants.
Thanks again to God and to all those who are praying and working to make Weekday Religious Education a reality once again in Shenandoah County.
Blessings, George