Rev. Ronald Thwaites in The Gleaner, April 4, 2022, discusses the importance of church schools in Jamaica where one-third are more are owned or sponsored by 11 Christian denominations. He identifies some of the problems that have occurred as the government assumed more financial responsibility and the church reduced its influence over their schools. From his position as Minster of Education he calls for a "philosophy of education which transcends the material and emphasises the ethical and spiritual." What a shame if the Body of Christ doesn't respond. What a shame that such a wholistic philosophy has been lost by those who follow the Creator, Sustainer, Redeemer and Ruler of all things.
Free resources for Christian educators are always welcome. This magazine has something for parents, teachers and administrators interested in Christian worldview education. Digital copies are available online and print copies can be obtained for the shipping costs from RenewaNation. They have a free bi-weekly email newsletter to which you can subscribe. In addition to thought provoking articles, they have a generous policy for using their materials and are open to contributions from those with something valuable to share.
It is easy to think about education possibilities only within the context with which we are familiar. Thinking about the unique circumstances of others can open our eyes to quite unique ways of doing things that might be inappropriate for "our" world, but extremely helpful for others. Open Schools Worldwide was begun in 2002 in to use non-traditional methods to meet the non-traditional needs of children in marginalized African communities. In the past 20 years, their work has spread to serve at-risk children around the world. The introduction to the founders in the March 2022 newsletter reminded me how God delights to use even one or two people to make a global impact when they are committed to honor God and serve others.
Joseph Backholm, the Senior Fellow for Biblical Worldview and Strategic Engagement at Family Research Council, challenges churches in the United States to get involved in starting Christian schools although his arguments for the need aren't restricted to a single country. However, his suggestions about how starting schools could be financed is shaped by possibilities within the USA. Other countries will have to look at their own situations, but the logistical questions can only be solved if there is a serious commitment to providing schools where God and His word are central to all of life and learning.
I agree that "We cannot offset 35 hours a week in a secular culture with 90 minutes on Sunday. The church must end the habit of outsourcing the education of kids and once again become the greatest influence in the lives of our children."
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