For Christians worldwide, Christmas is a joyful celebration of the birth of Jesus. At Abundant Life Christian School in Madison, Wisconsin, the faith community is holding onto their holiday traditions in the wake of a recent tragedy. Rev. Sarah Karlen shared, “When people question where God is, we see His presence more clearly than ever. This year, we will lean into phrases like ‘Prince of Peace’ and ‘God with us’.” Karlen, a pastor at City Church, which founded the school, reflected on the recent shooting that took the lives of a student, a teacher, and injured others. Despite the grief and uncertainty, she affirmed that God remains present.
City Church, with over 1,200 members, held a vigil and provided support to the school community. They addressed the challenge of reconciling faith with suffering, drawing from Scripture and the Book of Job. Karlen responded to social media taunts about their beliefs, emphasizing God’s presence amidst sorrow. The community continues to grapple with the tragic events as they seek comfort in their faith.
As investigations into the shooting continue, the school remains closed for repairs and review of safety protocols. The road to healing will be long, but City Church plans to offer caroling and candlelight services on Christmas Eve, aiming to provide solace through familiar traditions. The broader Madison community has rallied together to support the school during this difficult time.
“Healing will come slowly, but those hospitalized will not be left alone,” remarked Rev. Kerri Parker, the executive director of the Wisconsin Council of Churches. This council is home to about 2,000 churches and serves a community of 1 million Christians. The compassionate efforts of evangelical ministries, sending chaplains to comfort pastors attending to the wounded, are a testament to the solidarity and support within the community in times of adversity.
Among the bright lights in the community is the Abundant Life Christian School, which is affiliated with Impact Christian Schools, a network of private educational institutions that embrace families from all walks of life, irrespective of their faith traditions. Chuck Moore, the executive director of Impact Christian Schools, expressed his hope that the tragic incident occurring so close to the holiday season would not forever taint the joy of Christmas for the community.
“Even amidst the darkness, we can find moments to rejoice,” Moore emphasized. “Let us center our celebrations on the essence of Christ.” The educators at the Abundant Life Christian School have been weaving conversations about Jesus and faith into every classroom and subject throughout the day, underscoring that spirituality is not confined to Sunday services.
As the community grapples with the aftermath of the tragedy, the message remains steadfast – God is unchanging in his goodness and faithfulness. “We may be shattered, but God remains unwavering,” shared one member of the community. The reopening of the school in January will be marked by a continued focus on faith and resilience, a beacon of hope in the face of adversity.
The commitment of these ministries and schools to provide unwavering support and solace during times of crisis is a testament to the strength and unity within the community. In the face of adversity, the shared belief in the constancy of God’s love and guidance serves to uplift and sustain all those affected. The reassurance that they are not alone in their suffering offers comfort and a sense of belonging amidst the chaos.
The collaborative efforts between various organizations, such as the Wisconsin Council of Churches and Impact Christian Schools, showcase the power of solidarity and compassion in times of need. The outpouring of support and care for those impacted by the tragedy exemplifies the spirit of empathy and unity that binds the community together.
As the healing process begins, the message of hope and resilience resonates through the actions and words of those reaching out to offer comfort and support. The enduring faith in God’s unwavering presence and love guides the community through the darkness, reminding them that they are not alone in their pain and sorrow.
This display of unwavering faith and unity amidst adversity serves as a beacon of light in a time of darkness, offering solace and strength to those in need. Through their actions and words, the community stands united in their belief in the power of love, compassion, and resilience to overcome even the most challenging of circumstances.
