Commencing in January, Immanuel Academy St. Louis starts a morning prayer session during the Bible study. Prayer jars were created containing school’s 10 Top prayer topics as well as individual prayer topics for each student. Prior to the daily Bible study, a dedicated 5-10 minutes were allocated for students to draw prayer topics from the jars and collectively engage in prayer. This daily ritual became a highly anticipated moment for students, fostering a sense of unity as they prayed for both the school’s prayer topics and the personal concerns of their peers.
On January 3, during Bible study time this morning, the older students of Immanuel Academy STL shared their yearly scripture and 10 prayer topics of 2024. They also drew the yearly verse for Mr. Samuel and Ms. Valerie from Immanuel church. Students’ prayer topics and their understanding of the yearly scripture was very touching. Ms. Michelle also shared 10 school prayer topics of 2024. Students were excited about the great changes coming to their school.
Most of them memorized their yearly verse at home already. There are several children who can memorize their parents’ yearly scriptures.
Some prayer topics shared are:
* I want to read the Bible at least once this year. (Most students shared this.)
* This year I want to get closer to God. (Most students shared this.)
* I want to obey my parents truly, not superficially. I always just do what they want but my heart doesn’t follow. I want to change this. (Two students shared this.)
* I want to love my siblings and not be angry with them.
*I want to make peace with my brother. I don’t want to fight with him anymore.
*I want to be healthy spiritually and physically.
*I want to lose weight and eat more healthy food.
*I want to pray for the new teacher.
It’s a great start to the new year. Hope the whole school can read bible more, pray more and get closer to God this year.
On December 23-25, Immanuel Academy St. Louis and North American missionaries’s children enjoyed a joyful Christmas retreat together. They have services, Bible studies, Bible verse contests, and outdoor activities. Children have a warm fellowship during Christmas vacation. Together they learned about the significance of the birth of Jesus Christ and the true meaning of Christmas.
On December 24th, there were wonderful performances at the Immanuel Academy St. Louis Christmas Eve Praise Night. They performed six dances, a special choir and a piano recital. Children from kindergarten to seventh grade participated. Parents say it’s very grateful to see their children’s musical development in St. Louis.
Newly joined kindergarten teacher Ms. Yvonne Twillmann also attended the Christmas Eve worship night. Ms. Yvonne said: “The Christmas program is wonderful and touching! Merry Christmas!”
Teacher Anne and some teachers made homemade cookies as gifts for all members and children.
“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!” (Luke 2:14, ESV) All children enjoyed the peaceful Christmas Eve praise night.
From December 18-22, Immanuel Academy St. Louis has a fun Christmas Spirit Week.
Monday December 18th is “Santa Clause is Coming to Town!” Dress like one of Santa’s Helpers (reindeer or elves) or like the big guy himself!
Tuesday December 19th is “Baby, It’s Cold Outside!” Wear your Christmas-sweaters, gloves, socks, scarves…gotta keep warm!
Wednesday December 20th is “We Wish You A Merry Christmas!” Wear red or green clothes!
Thursday December 21st is “Twas’ the Night Before Christmas!” Wear your comfiest pajamas!
Friday December 22nd is “Do You Want to Build a Snowman?!” Wear white, blue, silver, or other snowy colors. Dress like a snowman or wear a snowman on your clothes.
In addition, teachers taught Christmas Bible stories, made Christmas crafts and cakes to celebrate the special week.
Students enjoy the daily novelty towards Christmas and they look forward to each day of the week, better prepared their minds and hearts for the Christmas atmosphere and spirit.
On December 20, Immanuel Academy St. Louis received a precious gift of hoodies with the school logo from the Sunday School. Immanuel Church Chaplain Pastor Sarah Zhang and Sunday School Director Teacher Jane Gao carefully and heartily prepared the hoodies as a Christmas gift for school kids and teachers. Both students and teachers were so excited. When they received them, they were very happy to try on the hoodies. They will treasure it and wear them for the first time during the Christmas night performances.
Immanuel Academy St. Louis holds a gracious morning ceremony every day. Their morning ceremony includes prayer responses, scripture readings, hymn singing, daily prayers, daily affirmations and daily pledges. Through the ceremony, the students are refreshed and their minds are refreshed for the new day.
On December 15, a graceful and soothing daily morning devotional was held at Immanuel Academy STL. The teachers shared their grace that day, and one teacher was so moved by the Holy Spirit’s guidance in her life and her work at Immanuel Academy. She expressed many thanks to God from deep heart.
Every morning, the teacher’s devotional provides a wonderful start to the day. Although it is a short prayer and sharing, the teachers’ hearts are united day by day.
On December 13th, Immanuel Academy St. Louis successfully concluded the remainder of the first term’s Parent-Teacher Conference (PTC). Parents who did not have the opportunity to participate last time met with the teachers this time. PTC was held joyfully. Parents see significant growth in their children. The relationship between teachers and parents is very good. They thank each other. Parents testified that during PTC, they could strongly feel the teachers’ love for their children.
Having a regular PTC is very beneficial, it can help parents better understand their children’s school life and help teachers know how to support families more. In the new term, teachers will mainly cultivate two new habits for each individual student. The new term is full of hope and all teachers and parents strive for respect, joy and excellence.
