When children attend a Bible2School program, they receive much more than an introduction to the Bible. They find a caring and supportive environment for personal growth, said Marie Good, area coordinator for Manheim Central Bible2School.

"My heart as a Bible2School leader is that each child hears the message that they are valued, loved and seen by God," she said.

Bible2School will kick off its year during the week of Monday, Sept. 22. Classes will be held for second-graders at Doe Run Elementary School on Mondays, third-graders at Doe Run and second-graders at Baron Elementary School on Tuesdays, Doe Run fourth-graders and Baron third-graders on Wednesdays and Baron fourth-graders on Thursdays. All classes are held over the students' lunch period and take place at Manheim BIC Church, 54 N. Penryn Road.

"Bible2School is a Bible program that meets one hour a week during the school year," Good explained. "The children are bussed to the host site where they will listen to the Bible story while they eat lunch. Also included in the program are crafts, games, singing, laughter and prayer times."

Bible2School has been sharing the Gospel for more than 45 years. It began in 1979, when a group of pastors known as the Manheim Ministerium held the first classes for more than 100 fifth-graders from all seven Manheim Central School District elementary schools. Today, the nonprofit provides weekly Bible classes for elementary students throughout the country. It has also expanded its services to include Bible2School Memberships, a franchise model designed to bring a Bible2School program to public schools nationwide.

Bible2School classes are taught by volunteers who truly believe in sharing the Good News with their young charges. Classes reach children attending public school who may not otherwise have access to church.

"Bible2School provides a safe place for children to ask questions about God and the Bible," Good said. "It is a place they can connect on a deeper level with friends and find support from their caring small group leaders."

She noted that the program has received consistent positive feedback over the years, both from participants and their parents.

"Bible2School parents have thanked us for offering this program," she remarked. "The children love attending, and some have said that Bible2School is their favorite part of the week."

Like all nonprofits, Bible2School relies on community support, including volunteers who want to share their faith with others.

"We are always looking for volunteers!" Good said. "A great volunteer is someone who has a personal relationship with Jesus, loves working with children and has a few open hours during the weekday."

To learn more about Bible2School, visit http://www.bible2school.com. For specific information about programs in the Manheim Central School District, visit https://manheimcentral-pa.bible2school.com.