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Psalm 16:8 “I keep my eyes always on the Lord.” TNIV
Greetings from the OCS high school.
Researcher George Barna says that only three in ten teens raised in Christian families will remain active in the church in their twenties. There are many reasons for this, but Christian education must offer effective solutions for this problem.
In my mind, there are three types of Christian schools. The first are ones that never allow controversial topics to arise. Those in leadership tend to isolate the questioner. This is justified as keeping the peace. The second are those that raise the questions and answer them from only one perspective. Those in leadership have answered all the complex questions and want students to memorize and regurgitate those answers. These two approaches fail to empower the students toward growth and responsibility.
The third is what I call "learning community" Christian schools. These are schools where all members of the community (parents, teachers and students) learn and grow together. They can openly and appropriately discuss tough issues that bright young Christians wonder about. Students are asked to research, read and think critically.
One of my fears in life is not being able to give bright but struggling Christian teens good information about issues that affect them. Helping teens in this way is one of my motivations for being a Christian school administrator. Recently in chapel, I presented this theme and challenged students to discuss carefully topics that tend to divide Christians. If we as parents and Christian educators can't help our teens appropriately wrestle and resolve tough questions in a Christ-honoring way, I shudder to think who will.
I want OCS high school to look more like the learning community Christian school. We are here to serve the hearts and minds of our students. I am not suggesting that we cast our responsibility to use good judgment to the wind. However, we need to be prepared to walk with students as these tough questions arise. I want our students to realize we don't all have to be, or think, the same way. This reflects a statement attributed to St. Augustine, "in essentials, unity; in non-essentials, liberty; in all things, charity."
Our teachers and coaches take the time in class, on the field, and in Advisory to integrate the Bible into their curriculum. Our students will directly benefit from these mentoring situations. We want our students to think critically, care deeply and grow in genuine faith. That will give them the best chances to become lifelong devoted followers of Jesus Christ.
As always, please continue to pray for our efforts here at OCS as we fulfill the mission before us.
Sincerely,
Keith Campbell
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