The Problem of Class Size
His Holiness Pope Shenouda III speaks about the “number” problem in ministry, especially in Sunday school classes, and explains that some teachers’ desire to increase numbers can become a dilemma that reduces spiritual and educational benefit.
Effect of Large Numbers on Order and Formation
Large numbers cause noise and loss of order, especially in primary classes; the teacher cannot control the class, and students turn into a random group without individual follow-up.
Weakness in Information Delivery and Individual Work
When the number is large, it is difficult to convey information and implement individual work, and interaction becomes limited so that attention is restricted to some students while others are neglected.
Difficulty of Visitation and Follow-up
The teacher cannot visit everyone or know them personally, and it is difficult to know absentees and attendees, which affects the follow-up and pastoral care of souls.
Vocal Strain and Its Effect on Ministry
The teacher raises his voice to reach everyone, which raises tension and reduces the calm and spirituality of teaching, and leads to a bad impression of Sunday schools.
Effect of Numbers on Class Growth and the Teacher’s Attitude
Large numbers may comfort the teacher psychologically (a feeling of success) but prevent true thinking about the class’s growth. The best solution is splitting classes or training new servants to ensure better follow-up.
Practical Suggested Solutions
Practical suggestions: divide the class into two or more, periodic re-division, having two servants per class (educational and administrative), rotating responsibilities, and keeping classes to about 20 students to ensure individual attention.
Educational and Spiritual Conclusion
The important thing is not the abundance of numbers but the depth of teaching, the strength of supervision, and spiritual care of the class. Educational ministry must provide rich spiritual food and green pastures that help souls grow, not let numbers become noise without effect.
For better translation support, please contact the center.
