WOH For Tuesday, March 17, 2015
Lenten Journeys by Lisa Richardson, Fifth Grade Teacher
Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of the Season of Lent. This is a more somber season in the church year. It is a time to reflect on the sacrifices that Christ made for us.
Lent starts on Ash Wednesday, which begins 40 days prior to Easter (Sundays are not included in the count). Traditionally, following the Ash Wednesday service, attendees are marked with a cross on their foreheads with the ashes made from the blessed palm leaves from the previous Palm Sunday. Another fairly common tradition during Lent is fasting. The purpose of fasting is to set aside time for reflection on Jesus Christ – his suffering and his sacrifice, his life, death, burial and resurrection.
The 5th graders at Hope started their Lenten journey three weeks ago. Each student was asked to participate by either giving up something or adding in something to help strengthen and renew their relationship with God. Some decided to give up a bad habit such as nail biting, some decided to give up a delicious temptation like chocolate or candy, and still others decided to add in something positive, like performing a random act of kindness each day or an extra prayer.
I personally always give up sugar during Lent. It is my biggest temptation and one of my true weaknesses. I would be lying if I said this has been an easy journey for me. I am constantly tempted. However, I can honestly say that this year has been easier because I have been truly inspired by my 5th graders. Every day, I see their happy faces enter our classroom. We begin each Faith class by discussing our Lenten challenges and successes. During the first week, we tended to focus more on the challenges, but as time passed, I was so amazed to hear more and more successes. One student delivered flowers to a neighbor to brighten her day, another was offered a piece of candy and saved it all day for their younger sibling–talk about temptation!
When I see the strength and commitment from these 10 and 11 year olds, I truly see God’s love. As mother Teresa said, “Be faithful in small things, because it is in small things that our faith lies.” I can’t help but think that she was talking about our children. I am blessed to be in a career where I get to work with young people every day and blessed to be in a school where first we are allowed to love as God intended. Our students are our daily reminders that God is good. As we journey on through this Lenten season, let us continue to be inspired by the little things.
Calendar of Events
Wed. 3/18: 8:40 AM Chapel w/Gr. 5
Fri. 3/20: Free Dress Day
Tues. 3/24: 5:00 PM Open Taco Bar – Pecado Bueno
Wed. 3/25: 8:40 AM Chapel w/Mr. Kopecky / 1:30 PM Talent Show @ SLHS Gym
Tuition Assistance
Financial Aid applications are now available online through School and Student Services (SSS) and informational sheets are available in the office or go here. Applications must be submitted to SSS by April 30th to be assured consideration for the 2015-2016 school year. Limited tuition assistance funds are available to help families with significant financial need. Tuition assistance grants are awarded based on availability of funds and on recommendation from the School and Student Services (SSS) by NAIS, which evaluates ability to pay via application. Applications must be submitted for each school year as grants are not automatically renewed. Applicant information is kept strictly confidential.
Save The Date! 13th Annual Eagle Classic May 30, 2015
The weather in the Northwest has been amazing and many golfers have already been out on the course working on their swing! If you haven’t, you need to find your clubs and start practicing for the Eagle Classic on May 30th! This fun tournament is the one-and-only fundraiser in support of the Hope Athletics department. Invite your friends, family and business partners to join Athletics Director (Brett Kapels, SeaTac boys Coach of the Year!) on the course, and help us reach our goal of $4000 which provides uniforms, coaches, field time, equipment and so much more to our students. More details to come, but register now!
Head Track Coach and Field Assistants Wanted
We are looking for a head coach and individuals to assist with our track team this year. Practices are held during the week 2 to 3 days after school with Track meets usually on Saturdays. If you are interested or would like more information please contact Mr. Kapels at Bkapels@hopeseattle.org. Your time does count towards your PIP hours!
Hope Lutheran Summer Camp
This summer, Hope is pleased to offer six & ½ weeks of summer camp for students ages 3 through age 12. Our younger preschool camp is intended for students who have finished preschool 3s (age 4 by August 31st) or finished preschool 4s, and our older camp is for students who have finished kindergarten through age 12. With weekly themes and field trips and lots of fun activities including art, water day, and science, kids will have a great time together. Families can choose from 2-5 days per week. Register here or stop by the office for more information. Our camp does fill up quickly so don’t delay. We take registrations on a first come first serve basis.
VBS Registration Now Available
Join us for Vacation Bible School (VBS) July 20-24, 9:00-Noon for children age four (by September 1st) – those entering 5th grade. Older children are encouraged to serve as volunteers. Our theme this year is “Everest – Conquering Challenges with God’s Mighty Power”. Cost is $25 by May 1st and $30 after May 1st. Register online at the church website here. Questions, contact patramueller@hopeseattle.org.
Hope Church Membership Class
Are you interested in becoming a member of Hope Lutheran Church? Hope 101 classes begin on Wednesday, April 22- Wednesday, June 3 from 7:00-8:30 pm. Please contact patramueller@hopeseattle.org if you have any questions or would like to sign up.
Afterschool Activities – Click Here
Spring Drama Club Starting up
Parent Involvement Program Opportunities – Click Here
Positions available on PTH Board for fall
Teacher Appreciation week help needed
Need PIP Hours? The Athletic department is looking for volunteers to help spread the word about the upcoming13th Annual Eagle Classic Golf Tournament, procure fun prizes and silent auction items, pursue sponsorships and help the day of the event, May 30th! Please see Sally Heit or Brett Kapels to let us know how you can help with this fun day!