The ACS 2020-2021 Spiritual Development Theme is “Stand Firm,” based on 1 Corinthians 16:13, which says — “Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong.” Chapel speakers during the first week of school focused on this theme and posters were displayed throughout the school building to encourage students to stand firm on God’s promises. Staff T-shirts worn on the first day of school also displayed the new theme.

On September 9, Pastor Matt Mouliert of Crossroads Fellowship in Pleasantville was the featured speaker at the Middle School and High School chapel and said standing firm means “that you stand out, stand up, and stand strong.” He referenced the actions of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego in the book of Daniel as examples of what it means to stand firm in your faith.  The three Hebrew men refused to bow down and worship a statue of King Nebuchadnezzar and were thrown into a fiery furnace to die, but an angel of the Lord protected them from any harm.

Elementary Principal and Early Education Director Gail Alford spoke about the theme verse during the Wednesday chapels for students from preschool to the 5th grade. Alford said that the Elementary and Early Education chapels throughout the year will be focusing on the armor of God.

“It’s so important that we teach even our youngest students how to suit up and protect ourselves from the attacks of the world,” Alford said.  Upper School Principal Meg McHale said the middle school and high school students will break into smaller COMPASS Bible study groups that will meet every other week during chapel time.  This year’s spiritual development theme is integrated into the high school COMPASS study series,  “Counter Culture” by David Platt, and into the middle school study series, “Follow Me,” also by David Platt.