There's nothing like change to grab your attention. At least that's the idea with the new Wednesday chapel format at the Alliance Academy International (AAI). Breaking from the traditional sing-songs-listen-to-a-speaker approach, the new setup seeks to tear down barriers between students, teachers, and God. Friend cliques have been reshuffled into chapel "tribes," assigned small groups that mix grade level, race, gender and beliefs. "Tribe leaders" (teachers and staff looking for the chance to connect more deeply with students) sit with their kids during the first chapel of the month, when a presentation is given. During the second chapel of the month, each tribe gathers to discuss the previous chapel. The third week is geared toward musical worship and the fourth week is for bonding activities (fun and service) in the tribes.
As we pilot this new schedule, would you please pray with us that:
- chapels aren't just cerebral, but used to change lives.
- older kids are able to mentor younger ones.
- tribe leaders can powerfully influence their students for good.
- teens are freed from negative peer pressure so they can ask questions from the heart.
- staff and students alike engage deeply with their heavenly Father.
Dave gave the first chapel presentation this month, bringing in a big black "death box" that student actors passed through - with varying results - to illustrate beliefs about the afterlife. A humorous video, created by students, showed the excitement we'll feel when Christian friends are resurrected to be together forever. You can watch it below:
Please keep the spiritual growth of AAI students in your prayers. May the risen Christ be glorified in the young people here in Ecuador!
ECUA-ADVENTURES
"It was the hardest thing I've done in my life," Susie said, recounting her summit of Cotopaxi, the world's tallest active volcano. The last three months visiting Ecuador were filled with adventure for Beth's sister. "Tia Susie" has been a tireless babysitter, dishwasher and cultural explorer. We miss her presence dearly, as well as the constant reminders she gave us of what a beautiful and exciting country we now call home.
IT'S LIKE PUTTING ON GLASSES
That's how an Ecuadorian friend described reading a New Living Translation of the Bible for the first time. "M" is a new believer and brims over with great questions. When Beth gave her the study Bible to read, M said, "This is exactly what I've been looking for... I'm speechless." Please lift M in your prayers as she looks to Jesus for wisdom and strength to parent two young children on her own. And Beth appreciates your prayers for time and opportunities to disciple M and other young moms in the community.
SUMMER PLANS
I (Dave) found myself day dreaming this morning about waking up in St. Paul this summer to the smell of freshly cut grass and the sound of our kids playing with their grandparents in the back yard. Please pray for us as we begin to put our summer plans together. Our major concerns right now are scheduling our time, finding a vehicle, and raising enough funds for the summer activities. We will be in the U.S. from July 2 until August 25 and are so excited to reconnect with family and friends in MN and IL.
SUMMER PLANS
I (Dave) found myself day dreaming this morning about waking up in St. Paul this summer to the smell of freshly cut grass and the sound of our kids playing with their grandparents in the back yard. Please pray for us as we begin to put our summer plans together. Our major concerns right now are scheduling our time, finding a vehicle, and raising enough funds for the summer activities. We will be in the U.S. from July 2 until August 25 and are so excited to reconnect with family and friends in MN and IL.
With gratitude,
Dave and Beth (Levi, Luke, Aaron, Evangeline & Susie)
