History

WyandotCARES (Religious Education) has been around since the 1800’s!

“Is it legal, or isn’t it?” Unfortunately, it wasn’t. But in 2002, these six words from a concerned parent led to the cancellation of Upper Sandusky’s weekday Bible education program which had been faithfully offered since 1957 – and in one form or another, back to the 1880’s.

As it turns out, this event became a catalyst for bringing Bible classes not just to public school students in Wyandot County, but eventually, to public school students around the state of Ohio. With God’s guidance, our community came together to research legalities, reach out and restore religious ed. Upper’s school board voted unanimously that same school year to approve legal “Released Time Bible Education.”

Since then, WyandotCARES changed its way of operating, incorporated, gained its 501c3 tax-exempt status, then started growing.

WyandotCARES has one of the most vibrant volunteer programs in the state. Nearly a hundred active volunteers from a variety of churches escort the students to and from classes in each community. Some walk, some ride the bus, but all pray and care for the kids. Volunteers also keep their churches informed and praying; many strengthen the Body of Christ by serving in other vital missions and ministries. WyandotCARES’ Board members volunteer many hours to pray, plan, oversee and fund operations.

Inspired and inspiring, WyandotCARES’ team of dedicated teachers bring more than a half century of classroom experience to their teaching of the Bible.

Back in 2002, only a handful of Wyandot County churches supported religious ed. Today, volunteers, prayers, facilities and financial support come from about 40 Christian churches of diverse denominations. Though doctrines differ, everyone agrees that it’s a good idea for kids to study the Bible to learn of God’s love for them, and how Jesus can lead them to Life – and through it.

This is the WyandotCARES story. By God’s grace, this local program’s reinstatement and expansion has led to an even more far-reaching story: a new chapter in Released Time Bible Education in Ohio is being written through the statewide organization now known as “School Ministries Ohio.”

Jenni Miller, Founder and Consultant with School Ministries Ohio.