Coming all the way from the USA, Sonja Hultgren has been employed to teach Christianity in our local high schools.
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The desire to give children the best opportunity to learn Christianity has been the driving force behind the formation of Young and District Christian Education Association Inc – who secured Sonja’s services.
Though the 21st century has seen a growth in diverse religions, they believe Sonja’s presence in local schools is still as relevant as ever.
The Christian Education Association consists of leaders from a range of churches in Young such as Catholic, Anglican, Baptist, Presbyterian, New Life and Uniting churches, with churches in Harden having intentions to join.
“Some may consider bringing Sonja into our public schools is controversial now that so many different religions exist in Australia and scripture hasn’t been present in high schools for some time now,” Presbyterian Church Reverend Tim Ravenhall said.
“But it actually says in state legislation, dating back to the 1880s that religious education should be available for each student to access.
“We want to give students the opportunity to make an informed decision of what they’d like to believe in - [hence] we want to help inform people of what we believe. I’m all for that approach in all religions,” he said.
Sonja has just finished her first term, visiting Young, Grenfell, Harden high schools and Boorowa Central School for one hour each week to talk to Year 7 students about Christianity.
And it’s all been paid for out of the Association member’s own pockets.
“We’re making the most of a historical situation that’s afforded to us,” Reverend Ravenhall said.
“We approached the schools and they’ve been good about it. We don’t believe we have exclusive access to the schools because we are Christian.
“We wanted to set a standard the schools would be happy with - Sonja was a great candidate for the position,” he said.
Growing up with a Christian world view and a strong understanding of the bible, Sonja – who comes from Minnesota - is excited about the opportunity to encourage young people using the truths and values of the Christian faith.
“I’ve been living in the Twin Cities of Minnesota for the past 11 years, however because I grew up in Sydney until I was 15, I actually feel at home in Australia,” Sonja said.
“I look forward to developing relationships with the students and staff and connect with the churches who are supporting me.
“I consider it a privilege to be here,” she said.
Last December, R&B Christian band Iron and Clay performed at Young High School to launch the optional scripture unit into the Year 7 school curriculum.
The initiative allows students to attend one scripture class per week.
“The school was pretty happy with the launch,” Reverend Ravenhall said.
“At the moment Sonja is teaching for two and a half days – one day we hope to make it five days and teach up to Year 10,” he said.
