Observed the week beginning with the first Sunday in October, the National Association of Episcopal Schools’ annual Episcopal Schools Celebration (ESC) is that particular time in the school year when Episcopal schools, Early Childhood Education programs, and school exploration committees celebrate their own ministry and that of the over 1,000 other programs throughout The Episcopal Church. In the 2009-2010 school year, ESC will take place October 4–10, 2009.
Theme: Shepherds Will Feed You with Knowledge and Understanding
Each year, ESC highlights a different aspect of Episcopal school identity and mission through the event’s theme. In 2009-2010, the theme will be “Shepherds Will Feed You With Knowledge and Understanding,” which is from the book of Jeremiah, chapter three, verse 15. This theme highlights the prophetic and guiding role that teachers play in the instruction and nurture of their students.
Special Propers and Resources for the Occasion
To begin brainstorming about your Celebration’s worship service, here are the lessons suggested for use.
- Jeremiah 3:15-18
- Psalm 23
- Revelation 7:9-17
- John 10:11-16
NAES will send a complete worship resource brochure to all heads of school, chaplains, and rectors in August. The brochure will also be posted to the NAES web site in August. 2009-2010 member schools will also receive a poster for display.
Whether it is at school, the parish, or cathedral, or at a diocesan-wide worship service, community service project, or other special event, ESC is the time to give thanks and to proclaim to the community and the Church the good news that is the ministry of Episcopal schools.