Principal's Ponderings

From our Principal - Mr Chad Smit

Celebrate Jesus!

"For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, 

Prince of Peace.  Of the increase of his government and peace there will be no end. 

He will reign on David's throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding 

it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. 

The zeal of the LORD Almighty will accomplish this." - Isaiah 9:6-7

 

Christmas is here, and what a joy-filled season it is! I absolutely love Christmas, not just for the lights, decorations, and cherished family traditions, but because it is a time when, knowingly or unknowingly, our world turns its focus toward Jesus, the Prince of Peace. What an incredible opportunity we have to celebrate His birth and share His love with others!

 

Rather than seeing this season as rushed or hectic, let us embrace the beauty of Christmas for what it truly is: a time to love, serve, and share the good news of Jesus. It is a time to say with boldness and joy, "Merry Christmas—Christ came to bring love and joy to the world!" Or perhaps, "I pray you have a blessed time with your loved ones, remembering the miracle of Jesus' birth."

 

In a world searching desperately for hope, we can point to the greatest hope of all, Jesus. My prayer is that this Christmas, your family creates new, meaningful memories and traditions while also showing your children what it looks like to share His love with others. When we give His love away, whether through a kind word, a helping hand, or simply listening to someone in need, we allow our children and those around us to see the profound blessings of Christmas in action. After all, Jesus is love.

As we close another year at DCS, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to every member of our community, parents, staff, and students. This year has been extraordinary, filled with growth, learning, and God’s faithfulness. None of it would have been possible without keeping our eyes fixed on Him.

 

Thank you for your partnership, your prayers, and your unwavering support. Together, we have not just built a school but a community that reflects the love and grace of Christ.

 

I leave you with this blessing from Numbers 6, a prayer over your families as we head into the new year:

 

"The Lord bless you, and keep you;

The Lord make His face shine upon you, and be gracious to you;

The Lord lift up His countenance upon you, and give you peace."

 

Wishing you all a Christ-filled, joyful Christmas. 

 

Shalom and see you in 2025!

 

This Saturday evening: 

Some of our DCS students are performing at the Devonport Christmas Carols! Come and support them! Let's give them the LOUDEST CHEER!

We have an opportunity to bless others this Christmas, joining with Devonport Churches:

Our Aim: To have the Devonport Churches unite in serving our city, by offering peace, joy and kindness during the busy weekends leading up to Christmas.

 

We are hoping to have up to 50 volunteers representing the Devonport Churches in serving!

Volunteers will all need to register and provide their current ‘Working With Vulnerable People’ card.  A clearly identifiable ‘Here to Serve’ vest must be worn while serving. These will be provided. Further details will be provided to those who express interest.

 

Complete your interest to help here:

 

 https://devonportchurches.org.au/heretoserve2024/

Gift Wrapping:

Free gift wrapping will be offered in the Rooke Street Mall and outside Kmart on both Saturdays. If you wish to serve at the gift wrapping stations, you will require a reasonable standard of wrapping skill to manage gifts of all shapes and sizes! When you have submitted your interest in gift wrapping, someone will contact you regarding which of the two locations you might want to serve at.

 

Set-Up & Pack-Up:

Arguably one of the most important roles to ensure gift wrapping sessions run smoothly! We need 1-2 volunteers to commit to set-up AND pack-up on each Saturday. Please be ready to handle items with care, have a registered vehicle and current drivers license – to transport all equipment required for gift wrapping.

 

Gift of Caring:

We will have baked goods and a coffee voucher ready for orders, to be hand delivered to businesses around Devonport. A friendly smile, a sensitivity to the busy work place and a happy disposition will be required! Let’s take the time to say hello & wish a Merry Christmas to those around us. There is a morning and afternoon option, so we can ensure the City is covered at all times during the campaign.

 

Baking:

We would love to have some handmade Christmas treats to give the Devonport community as we serve on December 14th & 21st! If you are willing to bake, label ingredients and drop-off any type of Christmas treat, it would be greatly appreciated.