9. CHRISTIAN INPUT IN THE ANCHOR AND JUNIOR SECTIONS

In the traditional BB method there was a slot in the programme for what was usually called Devotions". In addition boys were expected, or at least encouraged, to attend Sunday Bible Class or Sunday School.

In more recent years many companies have' found it increasingly difficult to get their boys to attend on Sundays given that there are now so many other activities taking place, or the boy is visiting the parent he is not living with.

Consequently, if we are to be true to our Object, "The Advancement of Christ's Kingdom amongst Boys. .", it is now even more important that this specifically Christian slot is programmed into the evening's activities. The following points may be of help to companies wishing to review their provision in this area.

1. Remember that your Church is responsible for the programme of Christian education in the Company.

2. Probably most weeks this slot will take the form of a story, prayer and possibly a song.

3. For boys of this age a Bible story will be very appropriate. Note that the index at the back of a Good News Bible lists all the parables and miracles of Jesus. There are, of course, many books of Bible stories published. A visit to a Christian Bookshop is time well spent. The "Useful Resources" list available from London District, or the Development Officer, gives some suggestions. The following series have proved to be very helpful:

The Lion Story Bible 30 OT and 22 NT stories in separate books;

Adventure Story Bible 18 OT and 12 NT stories in separate books (Bible Society).

4. There are numerous books of stories with a Christian message. Again see the 'Useful Resources" list. Just one possibility is:

Fifty 5-minute stories (Kingsway) ? includes useful tips on story telling!

5. Consider whether the prayer can in some way be linked to the story. See the leaflet "Hats off for Prayer", in the previous set of leaflets. An excellent resource book is:

The Lion Book of Children's Prayers.

6. Many Sections have dropped the idea of singing. Yet there are many suitable choruses for this age range, which do not need the Leader to have a great deal of musical talent. See the leaflet in this series on "Musical activities for non musicians".

7. Some weeks you may like to use a different approach e.g. mime/drama, an activity sheet or a video. There are numerous ideas in the "Useful Resources" List. The use of a video some weeks, if you have access to the equipment, is particularly recommended. Some churches have decided to build up a library of videos. Alternatively it is, of course, possible to hire them.

8. Reflect on when to include this slot. Although traditionally it has been at the start of the programme there is no real reason why it should not be included elsewhere as long as the boys see this as an integral part of the programme. If your boys are engaged in a noisy or energetic activity when they arrive it may not be appropriate to move straight to this slot.

9. Reflect on what to call this slot. Devotions, Worship, God's Word are titles usually used. Any other suggestions?

10. Reflect on whether the boys will stand or sit. It is important that as Leader you should have good eye contact with the boys. So ensure that they are close to you, and if sitting on chairs or on the floor, sit on a chair yourself.

11. Of course there will be other times in the programme, for example when doing an Achievement, when Christian teaching can be given. However, this regular slot will enable your boys to come to understand that you see worship as an important part of the Christian life.