Is it appropriate for a priest to limit Sunday School to members' kids only?

By CopticBot.ai (Coptic Space Inc.) · Last reviewed 2026-10-10

In the Coptic Orthodox Church, the mission of the Church is rooted in the commandment of our Lord Jesus Christ to "go and make disciples of all the nations" (Matthew 28:19). Therefore, the idea of limiting Sunday School or any form of spiritual education to "members' kids only" is contrary to the spirit of the Gospel and the history of the Coptic Church.

Here is the theological and pastoral perspective on this practice:

1. The Universal Call of the Gospel

The Church is the "House of God" and the "House of Prayer for all People." As noted in the writings of the Fathers and current curricula, such as the Children of Light curriculum, the purpose of Christian education is to equip and educate children "to live a life pleasing to God in the midst of the world we live in." St. Habib Girgis, the reformer of the Sunday School movement, reminded us that "education is the first need for the community after bread." To withhold this "bread" from any child based on a membership status or administrative label contradicts the Church's role as a mother to all who seek Christ.

2. The Great Commission and Discipleship

Our teacher St. Paul says, "I will not dare to speak of any of those things which Christ has not accomplished through me" (Romans 15:18). A priest is called to be a disciple-maker. If a priest or a servant limits the teaching of the faith only to a specific group, they are hindering the growth of the Body of Christ. The Church is meant to be a light to the world, and Sunday School is the primary tool for preparing the "Children of Light" to witness to others.

3. Pastoral Responsibility toward the "Stranger"

The Coptic Orthodox Faith has always been one of hospitality and mission. In our Liturgy, we pray for the "catechumens," those who are not yet members but are seeking to learn the faith. Excluding children who may not be officially "registered" or whose parents are not "members" creates a barrier that can lead to the loss of souls. If a child comes to find Christ, the Church must receive them as Christ Himself.

4. Administrative vs. Spiritual Priorities

While there may be logistical challenges—such as classroom size or the number of servants—the solution is to expand the ministry, not to exclude children. Limiting access based on "membership" often stems from a secular or "club-like" mentality that has no place in the Coptic Orthodox Church. The Church is a hospital for sinners and a school for saints.

5. The Example of Modern Ministries

Look at the success of the Hymns Schools in the Diaspora, such as the school established by Moalem George Mikhail in the Diocese of Los Angeles. This school serves over 150 students representing 22 different churches. This model shows that when we open our doors and resources to the broader community, the Church flourishes.

In conclusion, it is not appropriate to limit Sunday School in a way that excludes children seeking the path of holiness. A priest’s duty is to serve all who come to the Church, ensuring they are fed with the "proper foundations and tools" to grow in the faith, regardless of their parents' administrative status. Any policy that turns children away from learning about God is a grave pastoral error.