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"It is Christmas every time you let God love others through you." -Mother Teresa of Calcutta
As stewards of our faith, Christmas time represents more than holiday celebrations, gifts, and twinkling lights. Spiritual works of mercy are an opportunity for, ministry, acting more Christ-like, and making a difference for those in need. Just as Matthew tells us in 5:3-5 "Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the Kingdom of God. Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth." Jesus himself performed many miracles for the lowly, teaching those who humble themselves will be exalted. Every day is an opportunity to do this, and Christmas time evermore.
Each of our campuses has offered SJCA families different opportunities to get involved in our school-specific outreach initiatives. First and foremost, we regularly call our community to pray with us. Prayer is often overlooked as an outreach opportunity, yet its power should never be underestimated. With prayer, we are opening our hearts, allowing empathy and compassion to flow through. Action can then carry through those desires deep within.
In its simplest form, outreach brings joy to someone's life in their moment of need. By giving our time, talents, and resources, we spark the light in Christ within another person. As we enter into the 3rd Sunday of Advent this weekend, we will light the pink candle, our symbol for joy in this time of preparation. Let that carry through in your life, in your prayers, and in your actions.
Once again, our Lower Campus Leadership Council sponsored our "Mitten Tree" drive, which has been a longstanding tradition dating back to the Academy's inception. This year's collection brought in an outstanding total of 649 items which we delivered to the Shalom Center, St. Mark's Community Outreach program, St. Mary's Giving Circle, and Brass School. Our deepest gratitude to those who were able to give to this collection.
Collections for the Lower Campus Reverse Advent Calendar are still underway this last week before we break for the holiday. An incredible 32 bags of food were already donated to the St. Mark food pantry. The following items are helping us count down the remaining days:
December 1st - box of cereal
December 2nd - jar of peanut butter
December 3rd - stuffing mix
December 4th - boxed mashed potatoes
December 5th - macaroni and cheese
December 6th - canned fruit
December 7th - canned vegetables
December 8th - canned tuna
December 9th - cake mix
December 10th - jar of applesauce
December 11th - canned vegetables
December 12th - canned tuna
December 13th- cake mix
December 14th - jar of applesauce
December 15th - package of rice
December 16th - package of oatmeal
December 17th - package of pasta
December 18th - jar of pasta sauce
December 19th - chicken noodle soup
December 20th - can of tomato soup
December 21th - canned vegetables
Simultaneously, our Middle School students and staff partnering with the Shalom Center to sponsor six families in need this holiday season. Items are being collected through Monday, December 18th and can be dropped off in the Upper Campus main office. A complete list of items and sign up can be found here or by clicking directly on the image to the left.
Working together, we can spark joy in the lives of many people in need this Christmas season as we can Lancers.
Together, we are one in the body of Christ, building tomorrow's scholars, leaders, stewards. Merry Christmas to all!
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