We’ve talked a bit about tables lately. To have them, or not have them. We’ve even seen a few changes popping up here and there as some of our teachers have started to put some of these ideas to the test. I thank you for that. I thank you for trying. And I challenge you to not give up.
At the same time, I want to encourage you to continue to be flexible. I’ve heard already of “Somebody” (honestly, why won’t that guy just quit coming to our Sunday School, along with his buddies “Nobody” and “Everybody”) – “Somebody” is threatening (I use that word rather figuratively) to stop coming to Sunday School because of the “table issue.” Now I don’t know who Somebody is this time, and I really don’t care. I care for my teacher, though, and others in the class who are concerned… do we back down? Do we stand firm? Do we get them their own little TV tray so they can set their Bible somewhere? (we have those, by the way)
I encourage you to keep your eyes on the mission – reach, teach, and minister… and nothing else. If a table helps you accomplish these goals, go for it. If it gets in the way, fold it up and move it out! If you don’t know what effect it has, intentionally evaluate it. Try it for a few weeks with, and then a few weeks without. Mix things up. Talk to it with your regular attenders, and with your visitors.
And just in case you’d like some ammo going into a conversation, I’d encourage you to check out this link. It is an excellent resource on the use of tables in the Sunday School setting, both for adults and children.
To Table:
- For most teachers and classes, using tables limits creativity–it limits the way the classroom can be arranged, how groups can be formed, and teaching methods.
- Sitting around a table can lead attenders to experience an inner circle and an outer circle–which is negative psychologically for guests and latecomers;
- If the class meets around a table, it can feel like the room is full when the table is full, potentially leading to ceasing inviting more people;
- If a class starts with tables and then attendance grows resulting in the need to remove the tables, most classes become vocally resistant.
Or maybe, Not to Table
- In preschool and children’s classroom with large rooms that have adequate space for current and projected attendance at 35 square foot per child
- In a fellowship hall that will be used that day following church for a church activity requiring tables (but why not ask the class to set these up after Sunday School?).
I encourage you to continue and evaluate your classrooms. Tables may be the right thing for you, or you may find through removing them you create a more open environment (albeit a bit more uncomfortable for a few weeks). Do not be afraid to try new things, do not be afraid to ask for support, advice, or help (even from your own class). One of the best pieces of advice in this article, I think, is this: “In adult space where tables are in use, begin by removing all unused tables. Then, when attendance increases, remove tables asking the teacher to lead the class to accept their removal in order to keep growing”
Be strong and courageous! This is our Sunday School!
