So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

–Isaiah 41:10

Bullying is a pervasive issue affecting millions worldwide. It’s a problem that transcends age, gender, and social status. While it manifests in various forms, the core elements of bullying remain consistent: the intentional infliction of harm - often through physical, verbal, or psychological means - on an individual who feels powerless to defend themselves. As Christians, it’s up to us to lead the charge on shaping a more compassionate and loving society to help prevent and stop bullying. 

As a continuation of the "Campaign for CommUNITY",  Head of High School and Assistant Head of School Tawanna Rusk shares her thoughts on how to best #LoveOneAnother — the theme for this school year. By modeling our lives after Jesus's example, we can be united as one in the body of Christ, while appreciating our unique God-given talents and differences.

CO-WRITTEN BY SHAUNDA BROOKS

“I solemnly swear that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic, that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; that I take this obligation freely, without any mental reservation or purpose of evasion; and that I will well and faithfully discharge the duties of the office upon which I am about to enter; So help me God.”

As the new year begins, we often spend time reflecting on the year that has just passed. We glow in memories of joy, success, and contentment, and we ache over hardships, struggles, and trials. As I reflect on the past semester as the head of Mount Paran Christian high school, I can honestly say there were hardships – but far more moments of sheer joy.

Generally speaking, cheerleading in America is not what it used to be. Questionable dance moves, bare midriffs, cut-throat competition, and trash-talk toward the other team are becoming the cultural norm. Fortunately, there is an alternative: Christian cheerleading. In this world of cheers, "spirit" means the theme is wholesome and the talents and skills of the competitors are recognized as being from God. For many schools, the focus is on self promotion and the “spirit” is completely focused on the accomplishments of the team and individual athletes. At MPCS, the cheer program has a solid focus of investing in the lives of these young ladies for God’s eternal purposes.