I've used parts of Answers in Genesis and have used Group for VBS but only after our pastor looked it over. I have found not all of it seems to align with us so I'm a little cautious to recommend these to teachers unless someone has the time to review it.
I have used Enduring Faith for elementary from CPH. I think the elementary materials are fine. I usually use it as a base for the lesson, but I do my own activities. (My kids like to do "popcorn" where we read the bible verses together/each reads a verse and chooses the next person to read...its super low-key/low-prep for the teachers but the students like it and they're reading the bible!)
My middle school Enduring Faith feedback is that it may be best for middle school students who have a decent biblical knowledge base to be able to understand and get the most out of it. If you have new believers or those without the base you may need to explain or modify it.
I have also used The Story. This provides a visual (artists drawing) the chronological bible events. I like this because even kids who have grown up in the church have a hard time getting the chronology down. It also recaps previous lessons so if you have students who miss some weeks they can still follow along. The Story and its materials are fine but the "Believe" sequel I don't think is consistent with the LCMS so wouldn't recommend that part. I have done The Story with middle school age.
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Beth Jones
Christ Our Rock
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Original Message:
Sent: 06-09-2023 07:53 AM
From: Connie Fondow
Subject: Sunday School material
Our Sunday School is currently using Enduring Faith curriculum from CPH. Teachers would like me to research alternative curriculums. We are looking for something engaging for students and easy to prep for with teachers. Our teachers are faithful Christian servants but not professional educators and need a curriculum that has ease of instruction. I have briefly looked at Group publications as well as Answers in Genesis. Does anyone have familiarity with either of these? Or do you have a strong suggestion for us to consider?
Thank you!
Connie Fondow
Park Rapids, MN
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Connie Fondow
St. Johns Lutheran Church
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