Sunday School

"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

At St. Dionysius Indian Orthodox Church, Ballarat, Sunday School is more than a weekly programme - it is the parish's covenant with the next generation. We exist to hand on the faith: not as a set of rules to memorise, but as a living, ancient way of life that shapes how our children pray, worship, serve, and belong.

Classes are held each Sunday immediately following Holy Qurbana, ensuring that children first worship with the whole parish family before gathering for their own formation. This sequence is intentional: the classroom deepens what the altar has already given.

Our Beginning

The Sunday School was inaugurated on 24 May 2023. The first classes were held on 28 May 2023 - the Feast of Pentecost - marking the formal beginning of Orthodox Christian formation for children and youth in our parish.

Curriculum and Structure

Our Sunday School follows the syllabus of the Orthodox Syrian Sunday School Association of the East (OSSAE), adapted for the Australian context. Students are grouped by age from Kindergarten through Year 12, with the senior stream culminating in the Vedapraveen Diploma - a recognised certificate in Orthodox Christian formation.

Scripture

Students engage with Old and New Testament narratives through age-appropriate lessons designed to build genuine theological literacy. Senior classes move into Orthodox doctrine, apologetics, and selected writings from the Church Fathers.

Liturgy and Worship

Children learn the prayers, hymns, and rites that form the heart of our worship life - from the Trisagion to the rhythms of the liturgical calendar. The aim is not rote recitation, but a felt understanding of what the Church does and why.

History and Heritage

From the Apostle Thomas landing on the Malabar coast to the martyrs, metropolitans, and saints of the Malankara Church - our students discover the unbroken thread of tradition they have inherited. Orthodox identity is inseparable from this story.

Programmes

Weekly Classes

Structured, curriculum-based classes every Sunday for all age groups. All textbooks and materials are provided by the parish. Teachers are assigned to consistent groups so relationships deepen alongside learning.

Bible Quiz and Competitions

Students participate in inter-parish and diocesan-level Bible quizzes, scripture memorisation events, and creative competitions. These build confidence, sharpen knowledge, and connect our children with the broader Orthodox community across Australia.

Orthodox Vacation Bible School (OVBS)

A dedicated multi-day programme during school holidays bringing the faith to life through Bible lessons, Orthodox crafts, music, games, and age-grouped activities. OVBS is among the most anticipated events in the parish calendar.

Junior Choir

Young voices trained to participate in the liturgical life of the parish. The junior choir leads in worship on designated Sundays, building musical ability alongside a deep familiarity with the Syriac hymnody of our tradition.

Annual Examinations

Senior students (Years 10 and 12) sit regional OSSAE examinations, with successful candidates receiving formal certificates of achievement in Orthodox Christian education.

Our Teachers

Sunday School is led by a team of dedicated volunteer teachers - parishioners who understand that teaching the faith is itself a form of worship. Our catechists participate in regular OSSAE training, diocesan-level fellowship days, and peer development to ensure high-quality, consistent formation across every age group.

If you feel called to serve as a teacher or assistant, we warmly invite you to speak with the Sunday School Headmistress or Fr. Gigi Mathew after Holy Qurbana.

Enrolment

Sunday School is open to all children of the parish and to families new to the community. Enrolment is straightforward - simply speak with our Sunday School Headmistress or the parish secretary after any Sunday service, or send an enquiry through the Contact page.

We believe every child in this parish has a place at the table. Come and join us.