Google the word “character” and one of the first websites to pop up will point to Orangeburg County, where a unique bond between churches and schools has been forged over the past few years.
In fact, churches in Orangeburg have partnered with various schools in character education initiatives that are the backbone of a pioneering national curriculum. Interestingly, the program can find root in scripture.
“The character traits (curriculum) used by schools are scripturally based,” said Nate McMillan, pastor of Petra Community Church and Orangeburg school board member.
The curriculum includes Personal Pathway to Success, which begins in 8th grade and continues through high school. Students plan a career path with guidance counselors which then must be signed by a parent or guardian. Schools are asking churches to inform parents of their responsibility and role in the process. Pastors are also reinforcing the values taught in character education with scriptural truths.
McMillan says the church/school partnership is a natural fit for both.
“The schools have established this avenue themselves. We are just seeking to help. This school adoption ministry is one of the components of setting the infrastructure of faith, to believe God for spiritual awakening for this area.”
In fact, Orangeburg school districts are heralded as a national model for this type of education initiative and partnership.
In addition, churches are finding ways to partner with younger ages as well. The Orangeburg school districts have established a system which allows churches to easily adopt schools in their area.
Pastors meet with a principal and decide with the school how the church can meet the school’s needs. Some churches are working as lunch buddies, classroom monitors, reading assistants and support for school staff.
The meeting serves to alleviate any fears or concerns either party may have.
“The official meeting erases all the phobia of the pastor, and if the pastor affirms the partnership with the school, it really gets some teeth into the ministry,” says McMillan.
“We are not just meeting with the kids after school. Churches are having an impact and presence from 8 to 3,” he continues.
The response level from the churches and schools has been tremendous, and McMillan says they have really just begun.
Orangeburg recently hosted a community-wide prayer breakfast which brought congregations and education administrators together for the sole purpose of praying for the schools. There are plans to make the breakfast an annual event.
“This is evangelism in present day – affirming these students where they spend most of their time. This gets the church involved beyond the walls of the church,” says McMillan.
McMillan personally spends the majority of his time away from the church office. Instead, he is in the schools and believes strongly that revival involves the younger generation. He sites awareness as the key benefit to churches who are serving schools in their communities.
“God is up to something, and he awaits out response of obedience. This type of partnership keeps the church relevant and aware. Until you are connected and involved, you will not know how to pray for these kids.”
A two-day workshop will be offered May 8-9 to explore more ways churches can engage their communities. Turning the Church Inside Out brings world-renowned experts on community/church relations together for a time of learning. Speakers include Ken Smith, Ed Stetzer, Glen Smith and Wolfgang Simson, among others.
For more information, log on to www.scbaptist.org/leaders or call the leadership development office at (800) 723-7242.