The Christian Studies Leaders met on Friday 31st May for a professional learning day with a rich variety of presenters and networking opportunities. This was in our new Office space and allowed us to ‘road test’ the venue for the first time.
The first part of the day was led by Sue Kupke engaging with Free to Flourish. For many, this was a first encounter with this vision statement. We brainstormed the skills, attitudes and qualities we’d like to see in a broad range of learners, from a part-time, 16-year-old shop assistant through to a farmer encountering a change in career. Around 12 schools nationally are piloting this and more information around this framework will be forthcoming. Here is the link to the LEA page: https://growingdeep.lutheran.edu.au/index.php/excellence-in-outcomes/
Janet Moeller, Project Officer for CSCF Review provided an update and engaged us in a discussion about the ‘why’ of CS. I wonder what you might say about that question? There is a CSCF reference group that met recently to scope the project out. The consensus was a need to rebuild the framework around big/essential questions that can accommodate key theological ideas. This conceptual framework is a critical piece to drive the rest of the Review.
Rohan Waters from VetaMorphus joined us and encouraged us to consider how we are nurturing the discipleship journey of our committed senior students. Veta has been a blessing in many places, though has had a stop/start history. Some schools are exploring other similar programs like Gravitate (Luther College).
Dr Chris Mulherin from ISCAST gave us a taste of a presentation to students around the relationship between science and faith. There are a wealth of resources available on the website and some schools are engaging Chris to present to staff and students. https://iscast.org/
The day featured rich conversations and sharing, and I thank those who attended for their contributions.
Pr David Spike
Pastor for Ministry and Formation
david.spike@levnt.edu.au
