What does it mean to be a child of God?
Dear Families and Friends
What does it mean to be a child of God?
Firstly, it is an astounding honour we have been given as people. It certainly should have an impact on how we choose to view others, all others – even those so completely different to us. We are imago Dei, made in the image of God, as Paul tells us we are ‘a new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness’ (Ephesians 4:24). If this is the case for all people, how much more are we, as Christians who understand this truth, required to move into relationship with others who are in the likeness of Christ, the servant king. How do we develop the character traits of Colossians 3:21? That is: compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience? Let alone how do we develop these traits in our students?
We talk the talk. We also need to walk the walk.
In Senior School at Emmaus Christian College we place a significant focus on the growth of the Christian character of our students. We are concerned with the development of the whole student, (spiritually, emotionally, physically and intellectually), as well as the academic achievement of each student. As staff and parents – we need to be an example.
Our extra curricular programs, pastoral care, worship and Christian outreach, ensure we promote a social justice mindset and Christian service. Students have the opportunity to discover what it means to participate in a socially just world through several of our camps and programs. These include the Social Justice Camp in Year 10 (in Term 3); the Ernabella Trip in Year 11; ECCO (Emmaus Christian College Outreach); and the Vietnam/Cambodia Trip in Years 11 or 12.
Further to this, our Student Leaders set up a lunchtime program at Forbes Primary School two years ago. This has been a wonderful way of reaching out to primary students and staff who are similar, but different – yet still imago Dei. Last year this went a step further – we now have a weekly reading program for these students which was open for all senior students to participate in. It is a beautiful thing to see the connections between our students and the primary students they mentor by reading with them. Corona virus has meant that we have put our visits to Forbes on hold, but the students sent a recording of reading their favourite children’s books for our primary friends to read during the isolated time of Term 2. We miss our buddies and cannot wait to return.
This term student leaders have decided to visit the ELC and Junior Primary students at Brooklyn Park in order to share activities and put in time to help these students feel part of the broader Emmaus Community. We had a wonderful time reading, creating a collage, decorating biscuits and playing ball games at recess time.
It is this aspect of College life that is truly exciting as we help our students view their roles beyond the school gate and to serve in the community around them.
Kind regards
Andrea Grear
Head of Senior School
