Friday, December 12, 2014

Oh Come, Oh Come, Emmanuel

We’re almost there, almost to Christmas. In all of the programs, concerts, parties, and activity of the season, I hope that you are finding, and will find time still to spend in the candlelight of Advent. The Christian calendar helps us to find some healthy rhythm in the daily-ness of life, and the often-hectic pace of our culture. Advent waiting, expectation, and anticipation is a healthy antidote to the crammed-full calendar and immediate gratification spirit all around us. I urge you to make time with your family in special family devotions, in pre-bedtime routines, in turning off the TV and unplugging from all electronic devices, to simply be together. Share those favorite Christmas stories from your childhood. Read those favorite Christmas books for the umpteenth time. Tell your story of Jesus’ coming into your life, and what you most look forward to when He returns again. Stoke the eager anticipation of your children for Jesus’ coming at Christmas, as well as His future coming to make all things whole and fully good again. It is in the light of Advent and Christmas that we see things more truly. May you experience a wonderful and blessed Christmas with your children and family, and a healthy, peaceful, laughter-filled, and blessed vacation.


Enjoy "O Come O Come Emmanuel" by clicking on the photo.

Christmas Tea
Our South Side staff was treated to a beautiful Christmas Tea hosted by the parent team and supported by many parents from our community. Decorations transformed the staff center and all staff enjoyed a time to sit together, enjoy a treat and celebrate together. Thank you to our parent team for the Christmas Tea and to our greater community for your support.

Exposure Notification

We are entering the season when illnesses often make their way through school classrooms.  In order to help you be aware make good choices about your child’s health, we will be sending out exposure notices when appropriate to let you know of any communicable illnesses, ie. pink eye, strep throat, etc., that may be a risk for your child.  This is not meant to worry you, but rather to help you prevent the illness or respond quickly in your own household.


Weather Changes
The weather is changing very fast! Please make sure your children are dressed in appropriate clothing for outdoor recess. The children enjoy being outside, having fun, and getting some fresh air. Thank you for your cooperation.
Living Hope Showcase 2015 “Music in Action” 
Is taking place on Thursday and Friday, March 19 & 20, at 7:00 pm in the HCHS Auditorium. Order tickets early for the BEST seats! Tickets make GREAT Christmas gifts! If you are ordering as a gift, place order by December 18 and then pick up in high school office from noon - 3:00 pm on December 19. Purchase online at www.hollandchristian.org/living_hope or by dropping off an order form at the High School Office for $10 per Reserved Seat. For more information, contact Julie Kammeraad at 616-218-8536/ juliekammeraad@charter.net or Stephanie Walters at 616-953-8905/ kswalters@charter.net


Requested Announcement

Maroon Spoon Cookbooks are still available in the office for $10 a piece or 2/$15. These are NOT a new publication but one that has plenty of wonderful recipes to share. They make wonderful gifts for showers, Christmas, and the collector.


Double Your Online Donation!
Now through December 31, 2014, all online donations to the Tuition Grant Fund will be doubled! We have received a challenge from two generous donors to match dollar for dollar the first $50,000. Click here to donate online.


Mom's In Prayer:
Invites you to join with us as we pray for our children. We meet Monday mornings from 8:15am-9:20ish at Sonya Snyder's house (162 West 37th Street). It is such a blessing to pray with other mothers, and to praise God together for the good gifts He gives. Please feel to give it a try when it works for your schedule! Our first meeting is September 15th. If needed, childcare will be provided. Questions? Call or message Sonya at 283-8019.

After school Community Enrichment (ACE) News:  Sign up soon and join the fun!  What a perfect opportunity to invite a non-Holland Christian friend to our campus! The Winter session will begin on Thursday, January 15th for six Thursdays.  Karen VanMeeteren will be helping with the snack and recess time.  For more forms, go to hollandchristian.org/enrichment

K-2nd Classes – SPORTS SPECTACULAR JR. and KITCHEN KIDS




Dates For Your Calendar:
December 17                    World Renew Chapel (8:30-9:00)
December 20-January 4   Christmas Break
January 5                          All classes resume
January 19                        No school (MLK/Records day)
February 16                      Winter break day
March 6                            No School, Staff Development
March 13                           Fun Night at Pine Ridge (5:30)
March 30-31                     Parent Teacher Conferences, Evenings