Spiritual Emphasis Week began on Monday with a focus on resilience and faith through the documentary Soul on Fire. The film tells the true story of John O’Leary, who survived a life-threatening accident as a child and went on to live a life rooted in purpose, gratitude, and faith. Scholars reflected on how hardship can shape character and deepen one’s relationship with God. “The movie was moving and showed that everybody has different ways of finding God; it was different than every other coming-to-God movie,” said Janae Ruiz, 12th grade.
On Tuesday, Character Houses got together for devotionals, centered on identity and the contrast between cultural labels and God’s truth. Scholars discussed lessons from the film, and unpacked what words they allow to define them. In chapel, Pastor Tim shared a message about God’s unconditional love, comparing believers to cherished artwork displayed on God’s refrigerator. “Pastor Tim’s message on Tuesday was a deep and impactful sermon that spoke to my life in different areas,” said Matthew Serrano, 11th grade. “It helped remind me that God doesn’t look for perfection but a relationship with us.”
Wednesday shifted the focus to purpose and personal choices. During Character House, scholars led devotions emphasizing that actions and mistakes do not define identity. In chapel, Coach Kim shared her testimony, highlighting how each person is created on purpose and how one decision can change the direction of a life. “Hearing her story helped me realize that even one choice can impact your future, and that God still has a plan,” said Liliana Nicol-Johnson, 9th grade.
Grace took center stage on Thursday as Character House devotionals focused on being covered by God’s grace. Chapel speaker Ms. Maria shared her testimony, emphasizing the importance of giving oneself grace before spiritual growth can occur. “It was very powerful, seeing behind the scenes of her life,” said Kyla Worthington, 10th grade. “I am very grateful that she opened up to us and was vulnerable with us.”
The week concluded on Friday with a message of surrender and trust in God. Following Character House devotionals, baptisms were held for Caleb Green (impromptu), Isabella Munoz, and Triston Moreau, ninth grade, Asia Shluzas, Leylahni Kinsey, Isabelle Letourneau, and Stella Cook, seventh grade, Kami Buck and Jason Liu, sixth grade. and Stella Cook Chapel closed with worship led by alumni Chloe Romaniello. Reflecting on the moment, Preston Richmond, 11th grade, said, “Getting baptized during the first year of Spiritual Emphasis was one of the most important decisions I’ve made. Watching others take that same step this year reminded me why I did it in the first place and how much my faith has grown since then.”
