In a devotion shared recently with the Board, Walter Brueggemann postulated that, as Christians, God’s Biblical narrative summons us to move beyond ourselves. Christ summons us to intersect lovingly with the world around us. The Holy Spirit strengthens us as we are beckoned to meaningfully engage with our world, often or necessarily into zones of discomfort.
We are challenged equally by a secular world to love those amongst us who are marginalized, which shows that God is indeed sovereign. We learn, sometimes from outside our faith community, of faithful ways to live our Christian worldview.
We are mandated by the Ministry of Education to include language that expects us to care (show Christ’s love) for all, “to promote social equality and justice through recognition of individual differences”, regardless of gender questions, religion, or “otherness”.
Our students engage in debate and dialogue around current issues. Our students, led by students, march to city hall to voice strong concerns about global warming. Our students wrestle with what the evidence tells us about the origins of the universe. And our students are seeking to launch “Operation: New Genesis”, a project to work with the homeless. Our students are strengthened by challenge when they are guided by our faith.
“But I say unto you which hear, love your enemies, do good to them which hate you, bless them that curse you, and pray for them which despitefully use you” ~Luke 6:27-28.
Welcome to the challenge of discomfort beyond ourselves; welcome to authentic Christian community.
Paul Tigchelaar, Lead Principal