Upper Columbia Academy (UCA) in Spangle, Wash., experienced week of prayer in October presented by Jason Calvert, youth pastor of the Kettering Church in Ohio. Eric Johnson, UCA principal, led staff in morning prayers asking God to bless the students and Calvert during these special opportunities to connect with Christ.
Students heard stories and watched Calvert illustrate spiritual lessons twice daily. Additionally, class conversations and anonymous texting allowed students to share. “I want to talk to you about the issues you’re struggling with or are interested in,” Calvert told the students. “I want you to know that I’m going through your questions and figuring out how best to address [them].” This approach brought up topics on relationships, the Second Coming, confusing Bible stories and what it means to give your life to God.
Heard repeatedly were comments similar to one made by a sophomore girl: “I really liked the speaker. He had a way of connecting with us and saying stuff that makes sense.”
At vespers, UCA Bible teacher Fred Riffel baptized a student who decided during Senior Survival to rededicate his life to Christ. This student invited anyone interested in being baptized to stand up front with him as part of his baptism, echoing the theme of Calvert and UCA that being real with Jesus is vital in our walk with Christ.
The final message Calvert shared at the regular church service was envisioning heaven and why he imagined collapsing at the feet of Jesus. Prayers continue at UCA that students make decisions leading them closer to Christ and that they will claim the grace that makes heaven possible for all.
Rachelle Bordeaux is one of the many students part of the vocal worship leaders at UCA's week of prayer.
The UCA class of 2017 prays during week of prayer.
Upper Columbia Academy experienced a week of prayer presented by Jason Calvert, youth pastor of Ohio's Kettering Church.
