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Early in the 19th century various denominations and non-denominational organizations began to create Sunday schools in an effort to educate the illiterate, particularly children. By mid-century, the Sunday school movement had become extremely popular and Sunday school attendance was a near universal aspect of childhood. Working-class families were grateful for this opportunity to receive an education. The Bible was the textbook for reading and writing. A basic catechism was also taught, as were spiritual practices such as prayer and hymn-singing. Sunday school pupils often graduated to become Sunday school teachers.