Sunday School

The Sunday School at Christ Church, Galkissa, is more than just a weekly gathering; it is a place where faith is planted, nurtured, and allowed to blossom in the hearts of our youngest believers For generations, our Sunday School has shaped the spiritual foundation of countless children, leaving an indelible mark on the life of the church and the wider community.

A Rich and Enduring Heritage

The roots of our Sunday School stretch deep into history. Records show that an active Sunday School existed even before the tenure of Rev. Walter Edmund Mather, who served as priest-in-charge from 1886 to 1889. In 1964, a new chapter unfolded when Mr. Berty Jansen, recognizing the growing number of children in the nearby Pepiliyana area, started a branch of the Sunday School there. His forward-thinking vision expanded Christian education across the parish. While the Pepiliyana branch thrived for a time, it was later integrated into the main Sunday School at Galkissa, bringing all the children together in one united community of learning and worship.

A new chapter in this journey began in 1968, when a passionate young curate, Rev. Karol Misso, was appointed as the Assistant Curate of the parish. Children's ministry was his special forte and aware of the lively Sunday school at Christ Church Galkissa, he arrived with enthusiasm, vision, and a deep desire to build a Christ-centered foundation for the next generation.

Building on foundations laid by Fr. Charles Wickremanayake, Rev. Karol set out to create a strong team of dedicated and committed teachers. Soon, more than 20 enthusiastic individuals answered the call, forming the backbone of the Sunday School’s teaching ministry. During this time, more than 400 children regularly attended Sunday School; a powerful testament to the ministry’s wide-reaching impact. With such a large number, space was at a premium. Yet, the classes were held wherever space was available: in the church hall, the vestry, and even within the church itself. Every effort was made to ensure high standards of teaching.

A Thriving Ministry Today

By the grace of God, what began as a humble effort has flourished into a dynamic and growing ministry.

• Multilingual: Reflecting the rich diversity of our parish, classes are conducted in Sinhala, Tamil, and English; ensuring that every child can learn and grow in a language they understand best. This multilingual approach fosters unity and inclusion, enabling children from different backgrounds to worship and grow together in Christ.


• Age Groups: Our Sunday School consists of children from the ages 2+ to O/L class.


• Worship: Worship lies at the heart of our Sunday School. Every first Sunday of the month, our children lead the 7.15 a.m. English service; reading Scripture, offering prayers, and lifting their voices in praise These moments are more than participation; they are opportunities for empowerment, as children step confidently into their God-given roles as worshipers and leaders. Each Sunday School session also begins with a time of worship on a roster basis, giving every child the opportunity to express their love for God through song and prayer.


• Special Programmes: Our commitment extends far beyond weekly lessons. We seek to nurture disciples who live out their faith in practical and meaningful ways.
  Key initiatives include:
  
  • Vacation Bible School (VBS) programs
  • Visits to elders’ homes and children’s homes
  • Joint fellowship programs with other Sunday Schools
  • Environmental initiatives
  • Friendly competitions
  • Campfires and fellowship gatherings
  • Educational Visits

These experiences help children understand that faith is not confined to the classroom; it is lived out in service, compassion, and community.

Post O/L class

Recognizing the unique transition period after O/L examinations, a special class is conducted for students completing their exams. This equips them with biblical wisdom to navigate life’s challenges, nurtures leadership skills, and prepares them to become future Sunday School teachers.

Our Prayer

To nurture the faith of every child and to help them grow into disciples who walk faithfully with Christ.

The journey of the Sunday school at Christ Church, Galkissa, is a beautiful story of dedication, and a testimony of God’s faithfulness.