Teaching Stories
Be inspired by these stories of ordinary people who are making a difference in New Zealand state schools!
A Story that Spans the Years
Recently we received an email from an ex Bible-in-Schools teacher now intent on new missions service
overseas...
Thank you so much for your reply, Jackie. I also appreciate the warm invitation to be part of CRE when I
get back to New Zealand. I will definitely take you up on that offer!
I'm glad to know that Jan my first CRE leader still remembers me. She was an awesome mentor... the
very person who was instrumental in developing my confidence in teaching higher levels of primary
school.
When I first signed up for CRE, I requested to teach the children in levels 1 or 2, but
unfortunately, the positions had already been filled up... all except for levels 5-6. I can still remember the
time Jan and I spoke near Owairoa's auditorium concerning my reservations.
She looked at me kindly,
and with strength of conviction said, "If it comes too easy, maybe it isn't from God. Sometimes God
asks us to do the difficult things because He knows He can trust us to do what we think we are
unable to do."
What she said that morning made a huge impact in my heart to the point that until now, I go back to her
exact words whenever I find myself in difficult situations. That challenge, which I believe came from God,
opened up a new the door I had long since turned my back on: the passion I once had for teaching.
Now,
I am able to apply this love as I home-school our 3 children, and it has inspired my family to set our sights
on "teaching/education" as a ministry both here in our home country... and hopefully, in the mission field
that we are praying for.
The year I spent with Ms Borland & the kids of Room 23, being a Bible-in-Schools teacher in Owairoa
under the tutelage of Jan, and being part of her team was the best and most purposeful experience I had
during our two years in New Zealand. I praise & thank God for giving me such wonderful, life-changing
opportunities through CRE.
I will be in constant prayer for CRE/CEC in New Zealand. As our family waits for the Lord's directive, my
heart will remain hopeful about being a Bible-in-Schools teacher there again in the future.
May the Lord continue to bless all your endeavours
- Victoria
Comments from the Teachers:
It's Worth It
Just recently I have been privileged to teach CRE in a Year 1 class. This was a huge change for me as normally I am in a large group situation with Year 3 and up, and mostly from Christian backgrounds.
I was pleasantly surprised at how attentive these little folk were towards the lesson. They answered questions with great detail and interest. This reminded me that not only are there levels of physical development but levels of faith development also. Even children from non-Christian backgrounds have a level of understanding of God. Children at this very early stage accept God unconditionally (unless influenced by home in a negative way) and are inquisitive and soaking up information very quickly.
To all CRE teachers working at this level and wondering sometimes why, remember that this is probably the most important learning time in their lives and if we can put in our piece of the puzzle to form a complete and whole adult then we should.
Jesus said "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these" Luke 18:16. So if you are feeling like you are getting nowhere just remember the Kingdom of God belongs to such as these. God has made them willing and ready to learn even when it doesn't feel like it sometimes, and even if the children don't realize it themselves.
- Jackie
CRE Reinstated
Good news- I've been to the BOT meeting and I'm allowed to bring the programme back into school time!
The principal was very supportive and the teachers were happy to have the programme in class time because it supported the values that they are teaching. Praise the Lord!
- Lisa
Training
Why didn't I do this training before I took on my Children's Ministry position? So well organised and relevant. Thank you so much!
- Lorraine
Comments from the Children:
"I've learned something every week, but the main thing I've learned is to forgive people when they have done bad."
"I've learned HEAPS at Life Choices, but most of all I've learned to control my temper."
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