Church Bells to School Bells: Clergy Substitute Teach in Their Community

By Sybil Davidson

In recent years, school districts across the country have faced a shortage of substitute teachers. Recognizing their call to church and community, several North Georgia Conference clergy have responded by serving as "subs" in their local schools—exchanging church bells for school bells as they're needed. 

Clergy bring unique gifts and skillsets that make them well qualified for the role: a desire to serve the community, experience working with children and youth, safe sanctuaries training, and teaching experience, just to name a few. 

Rev. Susan Pinson in the Central South District

Rev. Susan Pinson, Associate Pastor at Glenn Memorial UMC in Atlanta, began substituting as a Lenten practice during the pandemic. Pinson wanted to extend her community witness beyond the walls of her church, recognizing that families and children weren’t visiting churches due to concerns about large gatherings during COVID.

“My favorite quote came from an astute kindergartner on my very first day in the classroom,” shared Pinson. “Ms. Pencil, is this your first time ever to be a teacher?" 

The most fun she's had has been substituting for music class.

"Even though I can't carry a tune, I helped each class make up silly and fun songs about how much they loved their teachers!" she shared. "The pride the students had in being able to brighten their teacher's day was precious, as was the surprise from the teachers who had no idea who this new substitute was and what I was up to!”

She has continued to substitute teach with the blessing of her senior pastor, staff parish relations committee, and District Superintendent.  

“The opportunity to be a part of several local elementary schools has given me the unique chance to connect and encourage congregation members — both children and teachers—but also meet folks in the community I may otherwise never meet. Encouraging teachers, paraprofessionals, and support staff of the schools has been a meaningful experience when I've seen first-hand their stress level when managing all the demands of school jobs.”

The Revs. Blackwood in the Central West District

Sorrow motivated Rev. David Blackwood and Rev. Jessica Blackwood to start substitute teaching after one of last year’s tragic school shootings. 

David, pastor of Bremen First UMC, explained that he wanted to do something more than offer thoughts and prayers when he signed on to be a substitute. He, too, felt that being present in the school was a way to show tangible support to teachers, administrators, and students.

“Serving as a pastor in a small town I quickly realized how central the schools were to the community,” he said. “Every child in Bremen goes to the same elementary, middle, and high school. Children are often with the same classmates from kindergarten to graduation. Substitute teaching has allowed me to get to know and become a part of that vital community in our town.”

He doesn’t advertise that he’s a pastor, but doesn’t hide it either. 

“Most students know that I am the United Methodist church pastor,” he explained. “Being present in the schools has let me get to know the faces and names of many students. They will come up and say hi in public or at community events. Sometimes they even introduce me to their parents. I believe that I am investing time with the students and that they know that someone cares about them.”

Jessica, a part-time local pastor at District Line UMC and part-time staff in the North Georgia Conference Center for Congregational Excellence, has found the experience to be transformative and has learned much about herself and ministry.

“I have learned to not discount the side conversations when kids talk to me about dating, their upcoming event, or when they ask if I am going to be there,” she said  “The time I have spent with the high schoolers this year has made me intentionally aware of my presence, the words I use, and to have gratitude for any opportunity to be love. These kids carry burdens that we do not always see or know. Ministers often get invited in during crises, but this has given us the opportunity to be a part of their everyday lives.”

Rev. Wood in the South West District

Rev. Oliver Wood, a part-time local pastor serving Wesley UMC Newnan and Union Chapel UMC LaGrange, has been substitute teaching since 2008.

“Substitute teaching has become more or less my occupation along with being a pastor,” he explained.

It is a way to live out his calling and show students that adults care about them. 

“Believe me, children are watching the adults to see if they live the life they talk about,” said Rev. Wood. “I have learned this from the experience: that love needs to be and should be shared! We don't know what a child is going through at home or in their neighborhood, but we can show we care about and love them while we are at school.” 

These clergy are demonstrating the importance of community involvement, the message in their presence, and a spirit of service. And they aren't alone.

Many other clergy are serving their community through their local schools—some in extension ministry as full-time teachers, some serving as sports chaplains, some as coaches, and some as regular volunteers. 

"John Wesley stated that the world was his parish," said David. "I am simply allowing the school to be a part of the community I serve."