From time to time visitors on our campuses speak
of sensing the Spirit of the Lord in our school. Such comments
bless us. On other occasions parents have reacted to our policies
by questioning our level of Christianity. They recoil at what
we consider basic Christian foundational beliefs. Hence, I ask
these questions regarding the elements of Cumberland's Christianity.
What makes Cumberland Christian? How can we make such a claim?
Is a Christian school what we have here?
First, we call Cumberland "Christian"
because we make Bible study a central part of our studies at
each grade level. Our objective is to help each student develop
a biblical world view, and to live according to biblical teachings.
Those not in agreement with this position will chaff under these
teachings. For Christians the Bible is central. It is the living
word and we receive its teachings as spiritual food.
All of our teachers profess to know Jesus Christ
as Savior and Lord. They worship, pray, share their faith, and
promote Christianity openly. They interpret all of life in terms
of God's influence in, around, and through them. Though they
teach many different academic subjects, they do so in the context
of godly faith.
Our governing board and supporting churches are
all committed to Christ and are involved in this school because
of their perception of God's leadership. Hence the motivation,
mission, and purpose of Cumberland are all Christ-centered.
For years Cumberland has had a growing involvement
in Christian missions. Current Senior Class members left for
a mission trip to Barbados on March 14. Future Junior Class members
will be given similar opportunities for home mission tours. Cumberland
has a vision for mission experiences in support of area evangelistic
churches.
Cumberland supports, assists, and believes in the
Christian family as the basic building unit for all of society.
Through our Family Living Institute we are seeking to strengthen
and build families through educational seminars and training
courses.
Finally, and ultimately, we call Cumberland "Christian"
because of character, attitude, and love of her people. Cumberland's
warmth, grace, hope, and faith make her stand out as of the Lord.
For all these reasons we call her "Christian". What
do you say?
