PHILOSOPHY OF ST. PAUL LUTHERAN SCHOOL

One of the ministries of St. Paul Congregation is its Christian day school. The congregation recognizes, as does our beloved Synod (1983 Convention Proceedings, Res. 2-17), that Christian education - applying God's Law and Gospel to all aspects of life and learning - is a vital component of ministry. As an important ministry of the congregation, the day school helps fulfill each of the congregation's five functions: education, worship, evangelism, fellowship, and service.

Education occurs daily to prepare children for life both now and for eternity. God's Word provides direction as it permeates the entire curriculum providing students with opportunities to grow in their faith and knowledge of their Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Using their God-given abilities, students and teachers strive for excellence as they use effective, up-to-date learning and teaching materials. Students are prepared to become responsible stewards of their talents in a joy-filled Christian life.

Worship for a Christian is a way of life. Worship is not confined to a daily devotion, a chapel service, or a religion class, but is shown to be an important part of our lives. Teachers provide a Christian model by faithfully attending congregational worship and by participating in other aspects of congregational life. Students lead and participate in worship in their classrooms and in chapel. They praise God through hymns and various other liturgical forms common to us as Lutheran Christians.

Sharing our faith with one another helps us grow in our relationship with one another and with our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Teachers model proper evangelism techniques for their students and provide them with opportunities to practice sharing their faith with one another.

God intends for us to be blessings to one another. Thus, fellowship is also an important part of our total Christian education experience. Students and staff accept one another as fellow members of the body of Christ. They learn together, play together, and are an encouragement to one another. Each person's uniqueness is recognized and individuals are helped to achieve their full potential. Each knows that he or she is a valued, accepted, and respected part of the school community. Teachers and students work together to maintain a classroom atmosphere of love and joy.

Service becomes a natural part of school life. Children are led to help others not only in the school but also in the community and the world. Teachers encourage Christ-like compassion and love for all people. As opportunity permits, teachers and students volunteer to serve others together.

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