We have thoroughly enjoyed being a part of the Academy this past year! We have LOVED our childrens' teachers and have appreciated the partnership we've experienced. We are thankful - so thankful - for the way the teachers & administrators have invested in our children.
Mercy Ships as a whole does a good job of celebrating mile markers. Some of our favorite celebrations came via the Academy at the beginning and ending of the school year. The school year starts with a "Beginning of the Year Celebration" where all of the classes are presented and prayed over. The school year ends with a "End of the Year Celebration"where, among other things (like the students leading the parents in worship and the students being presented as their next grade level), each student is presented with a character trait - a trait their teacher saw in them throughout the year - and a Bible verse to go along with that trait. This was definitely one of the most special gifts our children have been given - to have words of Truth, affirmation & encouragement spoken over them -- we officially love this tradition!
Knowing how much you care for our children (and wanting to make sure we save these words for the future), we thought we'd share them here.
Eli - Willingness - "Eli approaches every task with a good attitude. He never complains, but instead works hard to put forth his best effort. I have seen Eli grow tremendously this year because of his cooperative spirit and perseverance." "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters." Colossians 3:23
Caroline - Responsibility "Caroline is very trustworthy and I can always count on her to follow through on her responsibilities." "His master replied, "Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share in your master's happiness." Matthew 25:21
Emma - Compassion & Perseverance "Emma has a loving heart and is very nice and helpful to her friends when they are sad. She also has a strong will and the combination of these 2 character traits predict a great potential for the Kingdom of God." "And let us not get tired of well-doing; for at the right time we will get the grain, if we do not give way to weariness." Galatians 6:9
Fun side note: one of the girls that graduated from the Academy in May has been here her entire life. One of the most significant parts of the graduation festivities was when her parents read off ALL of character traits throughout the years. What a beautiful testimony of the Lord's love & development of this young lady.
Surely there will be more to come!
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