Jesus is Alive! — ACS students and staff gathered on April 14 for an all-school Easter Chapel to celebrate the redemptive work of Jesus Christ, who died for the sins of the world and rose victorious to bring salvation and eternal life to mankind. Various student groups raised their voices in praise and worship with songs that joyfully told the story of the hope of salvation in Christ.
“The miraculous events we celebrate at Easter changed mankind forever and gave us the opportunity to receive God’s salvation and be able to spend eternity with Him,” said Elementary School Principal and Early Education Director Gail Alford, as she welcomed some 660 students from preschool to high school and their teachers gathered in the gym for the chapel.
The kindergarten classes opened the chapel singing “We Are the Children of God,” followed by the Elementary Worship Team, comprised of 4th and 5th grade students, who sang and led choreography to “God is Alive” and “Way Maker.”
High school Bible teacher Urick Lewis presented a thoughtful message on the importance of having a humble heart of gratitude for the gift of salvation made by possible by Christ’s death and resurrection. “Christ took our place on the cross and we did not deserve it. He paid the ultimate price for us,” Lewis said. He taught from Luke 23:39-43 and contrasted the attitudes of the criminals who were crucified with Jesus — one who had a spirit of insult and entitlement, and the other who had a spirit of indebtedness. “Entitlement is the trap door to your destruction,” Lewis said, “but indebtedness is the open door to your destiny.”
Following Lewis, Upper School Principal Meg McHale talked about the joy she feels at Easter. “The root of our joy is that Jesus is alive; He’s not dead,” McHale said. She then introduced the Middle School Worship team that led everyone in singing “My Father’s House” and “The Commission.”
Chief School Administrator Karen Oblen talked about the upcoming missions trips to Coatesville, Pennsylvania and North Carolina that middle school and high school students will be taking during Easter break and how they will be sharing the message of a risen Savior with the adults and children they will be serving. She then invited the students to come forward to receive a prayer of blessing and commission.
The High School Worship Team led a final time of worship, singing “Living Hope” and “Reign Above It All” and Upper School Vice Principal Drew Carney closed the chapel in prayer.
