The Chapel Team opened this morning’s elementary chapel service with the singing of O Canada and the Land Acknowledgement. Our first worship song was “Not Be Shaken” by Norm Strauss.
This was followed with an introduction on today’s theme – perseverance. The Chapel Team reviewed how leaders demonstrate perseverance before introducing a poem called “Life is But a Weaving”(also referred to as “The Tapestry”). It was a poem that was written by Corrie Ten Boom, author of the book, The Hiding Place. It is a good reminder that no matter what our circumstances, God is still in control and can see the big picture, even when we can’t. Hence, we should persevere.
After the video, the Chapel Leaders formally introduced our Christian Leader Highlight on Corrie Ten Boom. After watching a short video about how she persevered even after been imprisoned for helping Jewish people escape from the Nazis, the students were asked to discuss how they can choose to persevere and lean on God to help them through challenges they may be facing now.
Next, the Chapel Team led the audience in singing “Anchor“ by Ben Fielding and Dean Ussheray.
Our message this morning came via video from England. Pastor Griffith opened his message by asking the students to pick from three possible definitions the meaning of the word perseverance. Students clapped to indicate their choice of the last option – “doing or completing something despite the difficulties that you face”. He then played a tune on the keyboard that was in front of him. It was lovely! He shared that playing that song required him to persevere because he had to struggle through learning the notes and rhythm correctly. Then, he shared the story of Saul from the Bible. Pastor Griffith explained that Saul was a man who initially did not like Christians. However, he had an encounter with Christ that changed him (and his name to Paul) that empowered him to preach the Good News to everyone. He was later imprisoned for doing that but he persevered. He kept on doing the right thing, sharing God’s truth, even though it was difficult. Pastor Griffith closed in prayer, asking God to help the students choose to serve God and do the right thing, despite the circumstances.
The Chapel Team then led the audience in singing “Living Hope” by Phil Wickham. The students filled the gym with praise, especially during the chorus.
To end the service, everyone recited our aspirational passage together.
