Why Calvary Academy?


I recently received a message from Dr. George Wood, Gen. Secretary for the Assemblies of God USA.  Dr. Wood took the time to send a three page letter to all of the 12,298 churches of our Fellowship.  The purpose of this letter was to highlight the fact a sweeping change is occurring in our families, and we are not even aware of it!

Drawing off of the seminal work of Dr. Steven Henderson, President of Christian Consulting for Colleges and Ministries, Inc., Dr. Wood sites the fact that our children who are heading off to college are losing their faith at an alarming rate.  Dr. Henderson’s research indicates that between 52% and 67% of students attending a public or private non-religions college will no longer claim to be born-again and/or quit attending church after three or four years at a secular college or university (Is A Lower Price Worth the Cost?, Christianity Today, March 2006, page 80f)  

 

Here comes the astounding contrast, Dr. Henderson’s research found that if a graduate attended a Christian college, only 7% no longer claimed to be born-again and dropped out of church.  Our Assembly of God colleges belong to this accrediting body and would be considered comparable with this research.  Let me say that I highly recommend each parent strongly consider the value of a Christian college for your graduate.

 

As Re-Enrollment is underway, I found myself asking the question, “Would this disheartening collegiate data apply to our high school students, as well?”  I am aware of no statistical data that is available, but I have to wonder, “What are the statistics for our children going to Calvary Academy compared to the public schools in our area?”  Do the same alarming statistics confront our school age children?  Could our children be falling away from their faith as we send them to their school buses?  Sadly, the school culture in which many of us grew up is not the norm today.  Last year,  I attended a health science class at Lakewood High School.  I was shocked to see the security guards at the doors, the random drug searches, and the open promiscuity on the campus.  My high school was not perfect, but it was a far cry from what I witness in today’s public school system. 

 

As both my parents were public school teachers for over 30 years, I have no malice for the public school system.  I personally attended a private Lutheran school for the first 6 years of my education and then public schools through graduation and college.  I fully respect those who choose the public system.  But I am concerned about what is currently happening, and I am proud of the fact Calvary Academy offers a wonderful alternative.  I know the newer public facilities with their multi-million dollar facilities have some unique options.  But can I highlight some options that Calvary Academy offers:

 

1.      Christian Service Opportunities

2.      Statement of Faith for Admission

3.      Respect & Support for Parents

4.      Spiritual Formation

5.      Nurturing Spiritual Atmosphere

6.      Wholesome Social Activities

7.      Safe Physical Environment

8.      Integration of Faith and Learning

9.      Life Changing Chapel & Bible Classes


 

Dr. Henderson’s question is a good one, “Is the lower cost worth the price?”  Parents, we only have one opportunity to influence and shape our children.  Calvary Academy is committed to supporting our parents’ faith and value systems.  We believe we are making a difference in the lives of those put in our charge.  This is a high calling and one that we take very professionally. 

 

In light of what is at stake, is it really that expensive to invest in Christian schooling?  I, for one, believe in the cause; and I am committed to making Calvary Academy the foremost Christian school in this region.

 

Rev. Wes Lindquist

Calvary Lighthouse Senior Pastor