Camping
Mike Hottinger, Chaplain
In my studies at Anglican Youthworks College, we were taught that one three-day camp was equivalent to an entire semester’s worth of youth group. The connection and relationships that are fostered on camp through sharing meals and activities, as well as reading the Bible together, are invaluable to the relationship between leaders, kids and classmates.
At church, we battled to get as many kids as possible on camp in order that they would hear the gospel, have fun and bond with other kids and Christian leaders. Here at Kuyper, it is not a battle. For this reason, I make it a priority to volunteer for as many camps as my strength will allow. The relationships that are built and deepened on these camps cannot be underestimated.
I was on the Stage 5 camp to Dubbo during Week 1 of this term, and have just returned from the Stage 3 Bathurst camp. So many aspects of these camps were amazing: visiting the “Dish” at Parkes; panning for gold; Western Plains Zoo; Wellington Caves; singing students’ favourite songs on the bus. But by far the greatest blessing is my job as Chaplain, because I lead devotions on these camps. I was able to speak with almost every student in Year 5, 6, 9 and 10 about Jesus, according to their age and stage.
Year 9/10 Dubbo Camp
After visiting the Parkes Telescope, we discussed Genesis 1:14-19 and Colossians 1:15-20; God’s greatness in creation, and worshiping none other than him. Creation was brought into being through, for and by Jesus himself. After our trip to the zoo, we discussed Revelation 5; Jesus is both the lion of Judah and the sacrificial lamb of God. He is not to be trifled with, but worshiped for his loving sacrifice on the cross. This is the responsibility of anyone calling themselves ‘Christian’. After our visit to the caves, we discussed 1 Kings 19 and Hebrews 1:1-4; God ‘turning up’ in a still small voice to Elijah as he cowers in a cave. Although he can use other means, God promises to speak to us through his Word and by his Son.
Year 5/6 Bathurst Camp
The theme of this camp was ‘Treasure’. We discussed Matthew 13:44-46 and Isaiah 40:11; what do you treasure and why? God treasures you above all else and he showed this by dying for you!
Through each of these devotions, inspired by what we had learned and experienced that day, I had the opportunity to convey, as best I could, the glory of Jesus Christ. Each of us is on our own journey with the Lord. We are all learning and growing in our relationship with him. It is my prayer that the students who were able to enjoy “camping” this term would be moved forward in their journey towards the true and living God.
Reminders
- The Parent Portal and Kuyper App will be the primary vehicle for day-to-day communications between the school and parents in 2023. The School Calendar, weekly news, event advice and other essential functions will only be available in the Parent Portal and Kuyper App. At least one parent/carer from each household where your child resides needs access to the portal or app. If you are not already using the App, or need assistance resetting your user account and password, call 4573 2999 and we will assist you to connect.
- Nurture Magazine has been sent home to each family via their eldest child. Look for an article by our very own Ruth Thompson on page 20.
- Lost Property is over-flowing. Please come and check if any of it is yours, as lost property will be discarded or re-sold at the end of the year.
- Parents are reminded to continue testing for COVID and advise us if there is COVID in their household. If concerned, we encourage students to wear a mask at school for their own and others’ protection. In line with NSW Health recommendations, we also ask that close contacts wear a mask indoors and on public transport (including the Kuyper bus) and test regularly. We still have a good supply of RAHT kits. Contact the Office if you would like some sent home.
- Reminder to parents to ensure that all fees are paid by the end of year. Contact the Office if you have any concerns.
- Families who rely on the Busways service need to know that there have been some changes to the timetables until the end of term. Use the buttons below to access the temporary timetables for Term 4.
Prayer & Praise
- Praise God that he continues in his sovereignty through all circumstances. Praise him that he is “the King of the ages, immortal, invisible, the only God” (1 Timothy 1:17), and that he loves us.
- Give thanks for holidays, breaks and changes in rhythm. Pray for connection, peace and safety for all our families during these school holidays. Pray for connection and community to grow for all at Kuyper Christian School, particularly at Limelight!
- Pray for school families and staff families who are coping with illness and accident: Faithfull, Hill, Eastlake, Armstrong, Gubbins, Huxley, Daly. Pray for good rest, connection and healing for all our families, staff and students.
- Give thanks for our Government and those in authority. Pray that they would be led in wisdom and truth to lead our country for the future good of all. Pray that “every person be subject to the governing authorities.” Give thanks that our government has been “instituted by God” (Romans 13:1).
- Give thanks for our Board and Executive team as they interview potential new staff members. Pray for one-ness of purpose for our staff, Board, Executive team, and Association as they plan, prepare and budget for 2023. Praise the Lord for His provision to us all the time.
News & Notices
Welcome to the Kuyper App!
The Kuyper App and Parent Portal are a new communication platform that will provide you with a direct connection between school and home, making the information that is most relevant to your family available in a single place on your mobile device. The Kuyper App will enable parents to:
- Receive real-time updates direct to your mobile phone
- Access key information all in one place
- View the school calendar and your child’s timetable
- Grant permission at the press of a button
- Keep track of your responses with a personalised to-do list
Over the next few weeks, we will transition away from email and SMS for some communications. Please be ready to use your new Kuyper App for the following functions:
- Accessing Event Advice and granting permission for events
- Advising of full-day absence
- Calendar
Event Advice is now only available via your Kuyper App, and from next week the school calendar will only be available in the Parent Portal and Kuyper App. If you have not already set up your Parent Portal and Kuyper App, we encourage you to do so without delay. If you have any questions or need that extra bit of assistance setting up your app, please contact the Office. We also welcome your feedback.
Teen Parties
It’s that time of year, when students want to celebrate with their friends, and your teen may be begging you to host a party, or be allowed to attend one. Teen parties are a great opportunity for kids to strengthen friendships and enjoy eachother’s company. However, it is good to be aware of the specific risks that come with adolescent gatherings. NSW Police and the Australian Government have released some useful information and advice. We encourage you to be informed and aware and talk openly with your teens.
Friendship is a good gift from the Lord and He encourages us to celebrate together in a way that is honouring and encouraging for everyone.