We are often asked to give examples of church/school partnerships. People love to hear the many ways that churches are linking arms with their chosen schools. We ask that the church really listen well to the school when they communicate their opportunities.  We also ask the church to explore the passions, talents, and capacity of their congregants and match those to the strategic plan for the school. This is the way to truly build a robust partnership that fosters a beautiful relationship and ultimately encourages mutuality and reciprocity. 

One such partnership that we would like to highlight this week is between St. George’s Episcopal Church and Jones Paideia Elementary. Just in the past several weeks St. George’s Episcopal has donated $500 worth of supplies to the school, and several volunteers gave of their time on a Saturday to paint and revitalize the cubbies for the students, making them look brand new! They are currently helping the school get ready for their much-anticipated Lion King play in conjunction with the Nashville Children’s Theatre. The church volunteers are using their giftings in costume design and creation to help the cast members look their very best for their performances.  

These are great examples of listening and engaging in ways that meet the opportunities of the school and fully tap into the gifts and talents of the church. We are so thankful for this United4Hope partnership! 

Pictured are St. George’s Episcopal volunteers with the beautifully renovated cubbies at Jones Paideia Elementary School!