Dear Fellowship Families,

The end of the school year is upon us, and while it should be greeted with much enthusiasm and celebration, I find myself with a heavy heart. The heinous attack on Tuesday at Robb Elementary in Uvalde, Texas has left me heartbroken and very contemplative. When we can’t make sense out of the senseless, we must rely on our Heavenly Father for comfort. I ask that you join me in prayer for this community. In the midst of the sadness, may God create beauty from the ashes. 

In light of the events of this week, I reflect back on this year with gratitude, as well as hope for the future that we are creating by investing in the hearts of the next generation. I encourage you to take every opportunity this summer to teach your children the truth of God’s goodness (Deuteronomy 6:6-7). I recall standing before you at convocation on the first day of school and sharing our theme for the year, Dwell. This word, and its associated verse (Philippians 4:8), were meant to inspire us to focus our thoughts on those attributes that reflect God’s character and experience the type of joy that can only be achieved when we become less and He becomes more.

Within this verse, we find the words true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, commendable, excellent, and praiseworthy. Each of these words can evoke emotions and inspire us to live life differently in our pursuit to become more like Christ. Dwelling on this verse led me to think,  "What word inspires me?" 

Without a doubt, my word is “faith.” I love reading and hearing stories about people who have exercised faith in our great God and what God has done to honor that faith. Throughout the Bible, we see God demonstrate His love and power as He blesses those who show great faith. He also clearly expresses the importance of faith in our relationship with Him. “And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him” (Hebrews 11:6).

As I was considering my word, I was thankful to have the opportunity to ask my granddaughter, Kailyn, what word inspires her. Her word is “hope.” What a beautiful word for a teen; a word that speaks of confidence in Who God is and that He will fulfill His promises. So I ask you, Fellowship community, “What word inspires you?”

As this summer dawns, I would like to challenge you to consider this question. Perhaps you can share your word with your children and ask if they have a word that inspires them. My hope is that this will give you an opportunity to engage in rich conversations with your children, and possibly other family members and friends. Perhaps some other conversation-starter questions during these summer months might include:

• What’s a memory you would like for us to make together this summer?
• In what way(s) could I do a better job showing you that I love you like Jesus does?
• What can we pray about together for this next school year? (Be sure to pray together about this.)
• Am I a good listener when you’re talking?

May you all be blessed by these conversations and may God use them to inspire a deeper relationship with your Savior. We will miss you this summer, and I hope this time will be filled with many memorable moments. 

With deep appreciation for you,

Dr. Kathryn M. Teston

Head of School