A Study on the Educational Approach of Catholic Sunday School Teachers Supporting Religious Activity of the Youth during Pandemic Era: Based on Phenomenological Research

ABSTRACT

[Objective] This study aims to explore the attitudes and approaches of Sunday School teachers, along with the internal factors within the church that can enhance the faith activities of the youth. The exploration is based on the experiences of Catholic Sunday School teachers during the pandemic. [Contents] The study participants included 9 teachers from 9 parishes within A diocese. Data were collected through interviews, utilizing an phenomenological research method. The results revealed four themes: the pandemic's impact on Sunday School teachers, teachers' proactive initiatives, students' responses, and the role of a responsible faith community. [Conclusions] The study concludes that Sunday School teachers play a crucial role in helping young people sustain their faith activities and develop mature faith perspectives. Furthermore, the collaboration between Sunday School teachers and the faith community serves as an internal factor in promoting the faith activities of the youth. These findings indicate that the church community should acknowledge the role of Sunday School teachers and foster collaboration with them to sustain the faith activities of the youth.