Ministry

Paying it Forward - Setting the Example

Over the past several weeks, you will have been hearing and reading, in various formats, different expressions of our theme for the term Paying it Forward.

It has been exciting to see how this theme has been embraced by the school community, with a whole range of different ways of paying it forward happening in the College. One of the most exciting for me has been the actions of a variety of student leaders, who have, time and again, given up their own free time and energy to serve others. One of these student leaders is Rachel Pfeiffer, the College Spiritual Leader for 2020.

Rachel serves as a member within a broader team under the leadership of Chantelle Weiland (our Spiritual and Community Wellbeing Captain), and works closely with Eve, our youth worker, and myself around events and expressions of Christian faith and worship.

During this time Rachel has:

• Shown initiative in bringing forth new ideas for discussion and implementation
• Consulted with other student leaders and supported them
• Shown courage in speaking in public and addressing the school
• Helped with setting up for different events
• Encouraged the worship band with her presence and her words
• Brought other students into a team of people who are helping in fostering a positive spiritual climate in the school
• And so much more.

Perhaps one of the most important things a leader can say to others is “Follow me.” Jesus said this to his disciples, and they learnt to live like him, love like him, and give like him.

The Apostle Paul said: whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.  Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.(Philippians 4:8-9).

Rachel would probably never say to others: “Be like me”. But I will. Be like her. Rachel, and so many other student leaders, who are already ‘paying it forward’ – that’s why they were asked to lead. But she, and they, have risen several levels this year, and it has been a privilege to witness.

Not only do they represent themselves, the student body, and the school very well, they also represent Jesus very well.

If you have a student leader in your family or you see them in the coming weeks, please congratulate them and thank them for how they are paying it forward.

God bless your day,

Chris Mann

Pastor