Spiritual Growth

Occasionally, some see GACS missions and service as a pleasant "feature" of our school life, something like an extra class or a new sport. Nothing could be farther from the truth. The Greater Atlanta Christian family has been involved in international missions for 12 years now, and many have been deeply affected. Not only do GAC students do God's bidding when they serve all over the world including here in the states, they are transformed by it themselves. There was a time when spiritual growth was seen as largely accomplished by information. Somehow, we thought - if we taught enough Bible facts, then children and adults would change. Yet Biblical stories, modern research, and our own experience teach us otherwise. GAC Trustee and local minister, Don McLaughlin, points to research that if you want to change a child forever, you can do it with information in 12 years. Or you can do by activation in less than three years. For over a decade we have encouraged students to participate in acts of service that impact their hearts. Our Bible teachers still cherish the Bible and point to it as holding the answers for this life and beyond. Now we're putting those "answers" to work. And while we shouldn't send 2nd graders to Kigali, there are scores of ways they can serve close to home, and in spirit, across an ocean. Remember, GAC is about transformation, not just information. ---David Fincher President, Greater Atlanta Christian Schools