Partner with us as we aim to raise $50,000 to provide a safe, hope-filled SRE experience for our community's children.
SRE Vision
At St Paul’s, we envision a future where local children uncover hope, courage, and a genuine sense of belonging as they get to know Jesus. We understand that life can be challenging for our young ones. Many carry burdens, questions, and assumptions – sometimes even interlinked with faith or past church experiences. Through SRE (also know as Scripture classes), we aspire to provide a gentle, safe environment where students can learn about Jesus, pose honest questions, and grow in understanding of God’s love.
Our unwavering vision is that each child in Carlingford who chooses to be part of SRE would:
- Experience heartfelt care and respect.
- Hear about the unconditional love and grace of Jesus.
- Have the freedom to explore, doubt, and confront profound questions.
Why SRE Matters
SRE serves as a pivotal gateway for children to investigate life, faith, and purpose in a nurturing and respectful atmosphere. Some may be curious about God but uncertain of where to start.
In SRE, our dedicated volunteer teachers:
- Listen attentively to students and welcome their inquiries.
- Share the Christian message gently and authentically.
- Guide students in reflecting on themes of forgiveness, kindness, justice, and hope.
- Foster a calm, caring haven amidst the hustles of the school day.
SRE can provide a steadfast source of care, a hopeful narrative, and a space where students can safely explore the story of Jesus.
Our Goal
We are earnestly praying and working towards raising $50,000 for SRE.
Every dollar is directed thoughtfully towards:
- SRE teacher training and accreditation.
- Quality curriculum and materials tailored for age-appropriateness.
- Ongoing pastoral support and supervision for our SRE teachers.
- Communication resources that help us engage gently with families and schools.
All gifts to SRE at St Paul’s are fully tax-deductible, and a receipt will be provided for your generosity.
Stories of Impact
“I’m part of 3 SRE classes each week so I get to see students of all ages deepening their relationship with God as they connect with their teachers and learn from Gods word together. Through the year classes are more and more curious about who God is. This week Year 1 helped each other understand God’s kindness as they read Ruth.“
– Naomi
“I value SRE because we get to share the good news of Jesus with school kids outside of their church context, or for some it is the only opportunity in their week to hear about Jesus. It has been encouraging to see their growing interest and understanding through engagement and asking questions about God. For example on of the year one boys use to find it difficult to engage in scripture lessons but recently he has been voicing how much he loves going to church, volunteers to pray in front of the class and loves to join in and sing. Another example is of a boy who told us he had been asking his parents to play a song we have been learning in scripture every night so he could sing along and learn the words. There are so many small moments in each lesson that remind me that it is such a joy and blessing to teach scripture.”
– Monica
How You Can Help
Your support helps us offer a gentle, trustworthy SRE presence in local schools.
Give Online
Make a tax-deductible gift today to assist us in achieving our $50,000 goal. Your generosity funds training, resources, and pastoral care, ensuring that SRE remains a genuinely safe and nurturing environment.
Pray for SRE
Pray for students who feel anxious or curious about God – that they may find safety, kindness, and hope through SRE.
Spread the word
Share this page, talk with friends, and invite others to learn about SRE. Many in our community are still searching – your voice can help them discover that SRE is a safe place for their children.
Frequently asked questions
Is my gift tax deductible?
Absolutely. All contributions to SRE at St Paul’s are fully tax-deductible. You will receive a receipt after your donation.
What is taught in SRE?
Utilising an approved curriculum, we introduce students to the Bible and the Christian faith in a developmentally appropriate manner. Lessons emphasise who Jesus is, his teachings, and how themes like love, forgiveness, justice, and hope connect to everyday experiences.
Is SRE safe and respectful for students unsure about faith?
Yes. Our SRE teachers are trained, accredited, and adhere to strict policies. Participation requires parental consent, and students are free to pose questions, express doubts, and explore at their own pace. We aim to listen compassionately rather than dictate beliefs.
How will my gift be used?
Contributions directly support SRE teaching, resources, training, and pastoral care for our team. This ensures that SRE remains a safe, well-organised, and genuinely caring environment for every child who attends.
Contact & Thank You
If you have questions, concerns, or past experiences that make you cautious, we would love to listen.
Please contact our SRE coordinator:
- Name: Sarah Lancaster
- Email: sarahl@stpaulsanglican.org.au
We’d be glad to talk openly about how SRE works, what’s taught, and how we seek to care well for every student – including those who feel wounded but curious.
Thank you for considering how you might support SRE. Your generosity helps create gentle, hope-filled spaces in our local schools, where children can be heard, respected, and invited to discover the love of Jesus.