Teachers are some of society’s greatest unsung heroes. Without their unselfish service, we would never have the doctors, businesspersons, artists and even other educators we see today. They are passionate people who enjoy making a difference. Recently, the conference celebrated teachers being commissioned at three schools in Virginia, including at Tree of Life Christian Preparatory School in Fredericksburg, C.F. Richards Christian Academy in Staunton and at Stanley Seventh-day Adventist School.
“The commissioning ceremonies acknowledge certain teachers’ years of dedicated service to their students and the ministry of teaching,” comments Janet Armstrong, associate superintendent of education. “Commissioned teachers are also able to vote at constituency sessions. This is similar to when someone is ordained. These educators are being recognized and, in a sense, set apart because they have fulfilled the professional and personal requirements of the Seventh-day Adventist Church.”
Following Jesus’ earthly example through His ministry, educators understand that the great work of redemption is the object of Christian education and a fulfilling life. They have responded to the call of the Holy Spirit to become dedicated workers in Seventh-day Adventist schools. “This Spirit led call entails instruction, administration, fostering, promoting and supporting the work of learning,” explains Armstrong. “This is the sum of Christ’s ministry and those called to this commission need our continued support and prayers. They are ready for affirmation in the honorable mission of shaping and guiding Christian virtues.
The service of educating in the church is a blessing. This gift spreads throughout the body of Christ among many whom God chooses to train in faith, in information and in sacredness. Likewise, those who teach are also learners by preparing themselves to share their motivation and understanding with their students. By God’s grace, we want to recognize these fellow workers as commissioned teachers in the Adventist Church.”
Three more commissioning services are scheduled—one will be held on Dec. 19 for teachers at Tidewater Adventist Academy in Chesapeake (Va.), Beltsville Adventist School (Md.) on February 8 and Desmond T. Doss Christian Academy in Lynchburg (Va.) on March 7. Commissioning at additional schools across Potomac will take place in 2020.
