Churches often receive requests from schools for pupils to visit places of worship as part of their religious education lessons. Such visits tend to concentrate on the building and Christian artefacts, since they are difficult to arrange on a Sunday. Traditional Anglican or Catholic churches are usually chosen, but the church buildings of other Christian denominations (including the modern warehouse-type building used by some Christian churches) provide a useful contrast which enables pupils to explore the differences in beliefs between various Christians.
On such a visit, try to enable pupils to see the living church, meeting the people who worship there and hearing what they believe, rather than just seeing the interesting building and churchyard.
There are opportunities for the church congregation to be involved, not just the minister or clergy. It helps if refreshments can be provided along with some interesting activities such as bell ringing and brass rubbing. Remember, pupils will need toilets!
Many people forget what an amazing resource the church building is... an historical benefit, a place of awe and wonder - stained glass windows, the opportunity to look at the lives of Christians who have influenced the community through their faith and bequests.
A well planned visit to the church can give pupils an opportunity to learn about what Christians believe, how they worship and why prayer is so important. It may also provide the opportunity for a role-play of a baptism or wedding to help pupils understand the significance of them.
Schools may also like to use the church building for special performances and leavers’ services, thus strengthening the links even more. Small schools with no hall sometimes use the church hall as an extension of the school.
Events such as Christingle and Harvest are times when the church can invite the school to be involved and participate in the planning of these special services.