Bible2School offers free elective Bible classes to children in second, third, and fourth grades attending Doe Run and Baron elementary schools. Why those grade levels? "That's really when the kids are starting to ask the hard questions - like 'Who am I?' 'Where do I come from?' 'What happens when I die?' - and we love that we can come alongside of them and give them a biblical worldview," said Stephanie Smith, director of operations at Bible2School.
Students in the Manheim Central School District have the opportunity to participate in the hour-long classes offered on a weekly basis during lunch and recess.
Bible2School is entirely free to schools and families, as it is funded through donations and carried out by trained volunteers. The program formed in 1979 when a group of pastors from the Manheim area decided to utilize the then newly amended Section 1546 of the Pennsylvania School Code, which allows children to be released from public school for religious training of their choice.
Each week, a Bible lesson is taught, sometimes incorporating music, a skit, or a science experiment, before the children split up into smaller groups, where a volunteer leads discussion, a craft or activity, and prayer. "We really aim to make it as fun as possible and age appropriate," Smith said. "(Students) really look forward to it."
The small group leaders try to develop friendships with each student. Smith noted that some of the volunteers even request to move up in grade levels along with their students. "To know that they've got another adult who loves them and shares the message of Christ with them is huge," said Smith. "This is a way to help (students) alleviate some stress and to let them know that God loves you, He cares for you, and He wants a relationship with you."
Classes will begin the last week of September, but open registration is available year-round, so students may join at any time. To enroll a child, parents must fill out a written registration form or a permission form at https://manheimcentral-pa.bible2school.com/student-registration/. The classes meet off-campus in local churches and at other locations that partner with Bible2School.
For students who already attend church, Smith said that Bible2School offers another perspective and affirms the faith they have already begun to develop. Conversely, the classes may also appeal to parents who are not involved in a church but would still like to introduce their children to biblical concepts.
More volunteers are needed to expand the program and keep it running. Individuals who are interested in volunteering their time or donating financially may call 717-615-2944 or visit http://www.bible2school.com.
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