Handbooks and Callings
13. Sunday School

“13. Sunday School,” Selections from the General Handbook (2023).

“13. Sunday School,” Selections from the General Handbook

family studying scriptures

13.

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Sunday School

13.1

Purpose

Sunday School leaders, teachers, and classes:

  • Strengthen faith in Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ by teaching “the doctrine of the kingdom” (Doctrine and Covenants 88:77).

  • Support home-centered and Church-supported gospel learning and teaching.

  • Help members teach in the Savior’s way.

13.2

Ward Sunday School Leadership

13.2.1

Bishopric

The bishopric oversees the Sunday School. Usually the bishop assigns one of his counselors to fulfill this responsibility under his direction.

13.2.2

Sunday School President

13.2.2.1

Calling a Sunday School President

The bishop calls and sets apart a Melchizedek Priesthood holder to be the ward Sunday School president. If counselors are needed, and if there are enough men to serve in these positions, the Sunday School president may recommend one or two counselors.

13.2.2.2

Responsibilities

  • Serve on the ward council.

  • Oversee efforts to improve gospel learning and teaching at home and at church.

  • Recommend to the bishopric adult members to serve as Sunday School teachers.

  • Support, encourage, and instruct Sunday School teachers.

  • Lead teacher council meetings as guided by the bishop (see Teaching in the Savior’s Way, 38–39).

13.2.3

Sunday School Teachers

To prepare to teach, Sunday School teachers use the scriptures and Come, Follow Me.

13.3

Sunday School Classes

Sunday School classes are held on the first and third Sundays of the month.

With the bishopric’s approval, the Sunday School president organizes classes for adults and youth.

At least two responsible adults should be present in each youth class.

All adults who work with youth must complete the children and youth protection training within one month of being sustained (ProtectingChildren.ChurchofJesusChrist.org).

13.4

Improving Learning and Teaching in the Ward

Ward leaders are responsible for improving learning and teaching in their organizations. They can ask the ward Sunday School president for help if needed.

13.5

Improving Learning and Teaching in the Home

Parents are responsible for teaching the gospel to their children.