On Monday, March 16th Christian Schools under
the umbrella of the Association of Christian Schools International came
together to participate in the 5th annual day of prayer at the
Alberta Legislature. Educators, parents and students from Cornerstone Christian
School of Medicine Hat, Fort Saskatchewan Christian School, Glenmore Christian
Academy of Calgary, Saddle Lake Christian School of Saddle Lake Cree Nation,
Slave Lake Koinonia Christian School and Strathcona Christian Secondary of
Sherwood Park committed themselves to praying for our elected leaders today.
Our prayer initiative began in a reserved room with instruction on ‘why we pray
for government’ followed by reading and declaring
Psalm
33:8-18 “The Lord foils the plans of the nations; he thwarts the purposes of
the people. But the plans of the Lord stand firm forever . . . Blessed is the
nation whose God is the Lord”
Students had the
privilege of meeting and hearing from Uve Knaak who has recently been appointed
to the ministry role of Chaplain in the Legislature by Leading Influence
Ministries. We all then prayed for him in his new role. During the morning,
students carried out a number of prayer activities, from writing cards of
appreciation for their MLA, writing prayers to be posted on PRAYAB.com to
spending concentrated time in prayer for the wisdom of God to come to all our
provincial leaders.
After lunch, we prayer walked as we toured the building, met
with our MLAs and had photos taken with them. Our time in the Legislature was
full of wonderful surprises. One school had the privilege of meeting and
conversing with the Speaker of the House, Gene Zwozdesky, while another group
of students had the rare opportunity of shaking hands and interacting with
Alberta’s Lieutenant Governor, Honourable Donald Ethell. Before completing our
prayer walking tour, all of us representing the Association of Christian
Schools gathered at the entry of the Premiers wing to make a presentation of a beautiful
framed poster with the meaning of Alberta on it, ‘Bright through Nobility’. In
a speech to an Executive Assistant in the Office of the Premier, Ella a grade 6
student from Fort Saskatchewan Christian School, read these words;
We are honoured today
to make this presentation to the Alberta Legislature on behalf of the students
from the Association of Christian Schools International of Alberta. Dedicated
to the practice of excellence in academics, moral character and service to
others, may we along with all those who call themselves Albertans strive to
live up to our name; Alberta -’Bright through Nobility’. As citizens of this
grand and stately province, it is our desire that we be known for demonstrating
excellence in all our endeavours, show good moral character and as our name
defines us, that we be full of light and life, happy and hopeful, and glorious
and splendid indeed.
We pray God’s blessing
to be upon our Premier as he carries out his role as Premier of Alberta. We
pray also that he would be aware of God’s guiding presence and wisdom in his
leadership.
Presented to
Honourable Jim Prentice, Premier of Alberta for the Alberta Legislature on
behalf of the students representing the Association of Christian Schools
International, at the ‘Alberta Youth Call 2 Prayer’ day of Prayer at the
Legislature, March 16th, 2015.
As staff and students gathered for the session in the
Chambers at the end of the day, each of our schools were introduced by their
MLA. The entire Assembly was made aware that we had come specifically that day to
pray for them. MLA Dave Rodney spoke highly of Glenmore Christian Academy and
his words are etched in my mind, * “One of the invaluable gems in Calgary –
Lougheed is Glenmore Christian Academy. I truly enjoy visiting their students,
staff and parents and I am absolutely honoured that they’re joining us today.
GCA has built a dynamic Christian environment dedicated to excellence in
learning and life development. Their focus is to raise leaders who will become
responsible citizens and world – view thinkers who are committed to Christian
service. It’s a pleasure to introduce eight fine students, who have made a
special trip up to Edmonton to pray for us as provincial leaders here in this
building.”
As we listened that afternoon to the various MLAs making
statements and voicing their concerns, I think we were all likely sobered by
the power our Legislative Assembly holds to enact laws that affect us all. This
was indeed a reminder to pray that the truth of God and His righteousness
prevails. Thank you to all who participated in our day of prayer whether on
site or from afar, your prayers make a difference!
James
5:16 The Prayer of a righteous man is Powerful and Effective.
* The Alberta Hansard
This documented step of youthful faith brought to you by:
Mrs. Elaine Baillie, Chaplain
Fort Saskatchewan Christian School
God Bless and have a great week.
No comments:
Post a Comment