Scriptures in schools
We have embarked on a two pronged strategy. First, to distribute our exciting new DVD, ‘The Bible, Aliveand Active’. It’s been widely accepted in a great number of schools and so far we have distributed about 600 packs. Second, for the first time we are placing the Bible in the hands of primary school students through school Scripture classes. Last year, we distributed 5,000 Biblesto kids in schools in the south-west and west of Sydneyand this year a further 5,000 Bibles will be given tochildren on the NSW south coast.

This programme has spread across schools in the cities and regions, Christian and public and there has been a greatdeal of very positive feedback. It has also given us a terrific opportunity to bring before school students the exciting work of Bible Society world-wide.

This programme has also been a great encouragement to many Scripture teachers – beyond their wildest dreams! It has given them many fresh new opportunities to engage with students about the Christian faith through God’s Word. One teacher said of the DVD pack – ‘It’s entertaining andthe children are learning something at the same time.’ Thehead of Meriden Junior Anglican School Roslyn Scouller says– ‘It is the only resource I know of that does what it does. There are lots of religious education programmes for junior schools but none that actually addresses the Bible itself, itscomposition, history etc.’

The impact on the children themselves has been verysignificant. One non-churched girl in 5th grade responded to the message of the Bible like this – ‘…because it’s a double edged sword and goes straight to the heart of people.’With our school distribution well underway for 2006, we have also been asked to run training sessions with teachers and Scripture teachers, to enable them to make the most of our material.

Daniel Willis, CEO of Bible Society NSW says this is an exciting development in our work and one with great potential – ‘These days it's easy for the average school child to go through their childhood, not knowing anything about the Bible. This programme is ensuring that thousands of children are engaging with God's Word in an exciting way. As an organisation, one of our prime responsibilities is to ensure the Bible is placed in the At Gymea Baptist church, a group of kids enjoy their Bibles hands of the next generation.’

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