The mission of religion in the Lower School is to nurture spiritual growth, as is appropriate for each individual, while exposing the students to the Episcopal tradition. Our premise is that each individual is on a spiritual journey and no two journeys are alike: each is unique and valuable.

The Lower School Chaplain visits classrooms throughout the year. Primary through Fifth Graders attend chapel twice a week. Concepts are presented in developmentally appropriate ways at all levels. In Beginning School the concept of God, the idea of love and the belief that each person is a treasured and special individual are highlighted. In First through Third Grades, questioning becomes very important. Children are encouraged always to seek after truth with integrity and compassion. Fourth and Fifth Graders are encouraged to challenge ideas as we talk about images of God, central truths in different packages, and what it means to be a “person of faith.”

The year is divided according to the Episcopal Liturgical Calendar. Each season is presented and looked at according to tradition in the Episcopal Church (colors, words, songs) as well as how the theme is universal to all humans who are growing and learning. Stories, homilies, discussions, and all-classroom activities during each season reflect the central theme. Various Saint’s days or religious holidays from major world religions are often included.

CHAPLAINCY
The Chaplain works closely with the Lower School Counselor to assist children with problem solving and conflict resolution. Helping children to understand they are in control of themselves and can affect only their own behavior is essential in this process. Learning to communicate feelings and respecting others in the midst of disagreement are valuable tools for life.

The Chaplains along with the Assistant Head of Lower School are responsible for providing and promoting service learning in an age-appropriate fashion to the children of the Lower School. With the help of the service learning committee, several projects become the focus of study in both the classroom and chapel. The projects are designed to give children the experience of giving of themselves in an effort to do God’s work. In recent years projects have included buddy classes helping each other with projects, making placements for a homeless shelter, delivering meals on wheels with family members, doing chores at home to raise money to donate to a refugee relief agency, and donating gift bags during the holidays.

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