Shepherd of the Hills kicks off Sunday School

SPARTA — Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church in Sparta is kicking off its 2011-12 Sunday School program on Sunday, Sept. 11. This year’s focus is “Get to Know Your Bible.” Opening Rally Day classes will run in two sessions, depending on grade level. Grades 3-8 will attend at 9:15 am; and pre-K through grade 2 will meet at 10:15 am, during the family service. The 9:15 and 10:15 schedules will continue for these age groups throughout the school year. On Sept. 11, parents are encouraged to attend a meeting at 9:30 am with Rev. Scott C. Schantzenbach, who will discuss with parents how they can reinforce Christian Ed learning for their children. Registration forms and information will be available. One of the church’s mission projects this year is “Operation Christmas Child.” Sponsored by Samaritan’s Purse, the mission engages children to collect school supplies such crayons, pens, pencils, pencil sharpeners, markers and card games. Items will be placed in empty shoeboxes and donated to underprivileged children throughout the world. Shepherd of the Hills is located at 246 Woodport Road in Sparta. Sunday church times are at 8:15 a.m. (traditional service) or 10:15 a.m. (family service). For more information about the church’s Christian Education, worship schedule and activities, www.sothnj.org or 973-729-7010.