This most important grade will have in it all persons over sixteen years
of age, and all classes should be on an equal footing; that is, that all
should be called Senior Classes, whether the members are sixteen or
sixty. There should be no "Bible classes."
In the formation of Senior Classes great care should be taken so to
adjust them that there shall be no friction. The social idea must be
considered, although the scholar should not know that it is being
thought of. Scholars who would have no sympathy with each other, and who
would never harmonize, should never be placed in the same class; if they
are, one or the other will leave the class or school. In the selection
of teachers for the Senior Classes great care should be taken. These
scholars must be taught, not entertained; so men and women must, if
possible, be found who are well informed, apt to teach, consecrated to
their work, and who will give to their lesson and class such attention
as is required to insure successful work. It is far better in this grade
to have a few good teachers with large classes than many teachers, some
of whom are incompetent to instruct, and smaller classes. Special
instruction should be given in the way of courses of consecutive
lessons, lectures, and anything that will supply the intellectual wants
of these young people. Never allow the methods of instruction to get
into ruts. Teachers should be helped by pastor and superintendent, and
nothing should be left undone which would interest and attract the young
people. The social element should be employed under careful supervision,
but always with the Senior Grade alone. Never allow the children of
lower grades to have a part in a social gathering with the Seniors
unless by special invitation of the young people. This is the point
where they are sensitive, and it must be well guarded.
Employ the young people in every possible way. Let the ruling members of
the church recognize them and give them all the church work possible,
and they will do it, not only well, but with a spirit that will be
inspiring to the church.
Many years of experience convince me that from this department must come
the best material for teachers for the school, and will help to settle
the vexed question as to where we can get teachers. Take them from the
Senior Grade and give them such Normal training as will fit them for
teachers and officers. The knowledge that the superintendent is looking
among the Seniors for competent persons to fill all places of
responsibility is a great inspiration to them, and exalts their idea of
the character and usefulness of the Sunday school.
The members of this grade are at an age when they are ready to enter
upon some business, and the question as to what it shall be and where
they shall get a situation is a very serious one to them. There is no
way in which officers and teachers can bind the young people more
closely to themselves and the school than by taking a personal interest
in their business, and helping them to secure such employment as they
need, and securing situations where they will be under good influences.