Welcoming The New School Year

The whole church was silent while first-grader Michael thanked God in his prayer that “there is a Lutheran elementary school, which is not an ordinary primary school.” We are all joyful that the Lutheran elementary school is totally full – all nine grades are filled. The original idea—to build an elementary school which would not only provide quality education but would also lead students in the love of Christ, is fulfilled. At this event, all the children, teachers and parents met for the school service on the church benches.

Never Give Up!

At the beginning of the service, the director of the Lutheran elementary school, Jozef Sopoliga, asked the children: “Do you know what climbers, swimmers, skiers, cyclists, rowers and other sportsmen have in common?” The answer was that, in addition to great physical effort, all serious athletes must have the determination to never give up, to never quit. At the beginning of the new school year, there will be difficulties for students, teachers and parents, but we mustn’t give up! We must go on to win! First graders have to learn the alphabet, ninth graders have to study for graduation tests. We are expecting new challenges but we all believe in the faithfulness of our God who says “For I know the plans I have for you; plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future” (Jer 29,11).

On the Wings of Eagles

The school service in the church ended with the welcoming of the new teachers and by blessing all the students. Students came with the resolution to hang on, parents with the desire to be a help for their children and teachers came with the enthusiasm and desire to educate. Everybody, though, had the common desire to ´don’t give up and win´ as well as God’s promise, which everybody heard in the church again: “But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint“ (Iz 40,31).