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I have often wondered why God allows evil to remain in this world. Why has He allowed Satan to continue getting in our way? God the Father created us through Jesus. I have concluded that God is testing us, just as He tested Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden. Of all the fruit trees, they had to pick the one He told them to leave alone. Satan did the tempting then and still tempts us today. God tested Adam &amp; Eve and He still tests us and our faithfulness today. But, having said this, the Bible doesn’t explicitly tell us why God allows evil to stick around. &nbsp;We are aware that God knows everything. He already knows who is faithful and who is not. He knows who is heaven-bound and who is hell-bound. He gave us free will to test us for our benefit. He did not create us as robots. Why? Robots can’t love. They just do as they are programmed. We attempt to do as God wants because we recognize His love for us through our creation via our parents. He wants us in His heavenly home for all eternity as proven by Jesus’ suffering, death, resurrection, &amp; ascension for our forgiveness &amp; salvation. &nbsp; I note that prior to creating this solar system and all that exists in and around it, our Triune Godhead was alone. Always was and always will be. What love He showed us through our creation, plus all His gifts that were created within this solar system to use as He would have us do. They are today’s apple tree. &nbsp;1 Peter 4:12-13,16-17 reads: Beloved do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice insofar as you share Christ’s sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when His glory is revealed… Yet if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in that name [Christian]. For it is time for judgment to begin at the household of God; and if it begins with us, what will be the outcome for those who do not obey the Gospel of God? This is my final Seed Packet article. I leave you with the last prayer on page 306 in our hymnal. “O &nbsp;Gracious Father, You led Your holy apostles to ordain ministers for the proclamation of Your Word and the faithful administration of the Sacraments of Christ. Grant to this congregation the guidance of the Holy Spirit to choose a suitable pastor according to Your will for the blessing of Your Church in this place; through Jesus Christ our Lord.” (127)&nbsp;The Lord be with you,&nbsp;Pastor Dale Skurla

From The Pastor's Desk - A Final Word from Pastor Dale

This is the seventh post in a new series in which we sat down with our staff members and asked them about their experiences at St. Paul, and what brought them here. Stemmed by her personal experience with her son, Kristin sought to be a part of a school mission that embraces academic excellence coupled with a strong Christian foundation. Her desire to be a part of our mission, is a blessing that God placed her here with us. &nbsp; – Pam Robinson, Principal<h2>Spotlight: Kristin Darhower</h2><figure id="figure-fxeh3esapomhcaeyds"><img id="fxeh3esapomhcaeyds" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/29Yf8v5CIbzivWFNh8epcm9K9mkyKStqNzVrPeaZVVFci6vX6ORmOptwyngJmD5G.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: 50% 50%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="" data-positionx="50%" data-positiony="50%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/29Yf8v5CIbzivWFNh8epcm9K9mkyKStqNzVrPeaZVVFci6vX6ORmOptwyngJmD5G.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: 50% 50%;"></figure>Hello! My name is Kristin Darhower. I recently became the 3rd and 4th teacher at St. Paul. I came to this position after many years teaching in public schools. I am a military spouse and have had the opportunity to teach in several states and at multiple grade levels. My passion has always been 4th grade. It’s the perfect mix of maturity, ability, and curiosity. I have spent the last two years teaching 3rd grade, and those children were also caring, interested, and eager to learn.&nbsp;My own background: I was baptized in, raised in, and married in the Methodist church. I’m a product of the public school system. I always assumed I would be part of that system as a teacher and for a long time I was, and I flourished there.&nbsp;When our own son entered preschool, he attended a school much like St. Paul. I quickly realized what a jumpstart he was given because he had the opportunity at a classical Christian education at an early age. I wondered what a difference it would make if every child had that chance; would it change the current landscape of our school system? Probably so!&nbsp;While our children are still young (7 and 4), we have already dabbled in public school, homeschooling, and Christian education. I believe my goal for them for the elementary years is a private Christian education. I can see the difference it makes in the worldview and in the general ability of my own children and of the students in my class. It’s remarkable what an impact such a decision –choosing a school– can make!&nbsp;I am grateful for St. Paul and the opportunity our family has been given to become a part of the community here. I am excited about teaching again because students at St. Paul are excited about learning. My own kids are thriving in their classrooms. I am honored to be part of an organization that values children and education in a way that gives all glory to God.&nbsp;

Principally Speaking - Aligned with Helping Kids Thrive in their Faith and Academics

Below is a powerful prayer that I grew up with. &nbsp;I was awoken from my sleep a few weeks ago with this prayer. &nbsp;I think God was telling me something in my sleep. &nbsp;While the words have changed over time, this is the version I grew up with. &nbsp;I implore you to pay attention to the words and it will reveal the power in the prayer. &nbsp; Soul of the Christ (“Amina Christi” ) Soul of Christ, sanctify me. Body of Christ, save me. Blood of Christ, inebriate me. Water from the side of Christ, wash me. Passion of Christ strengthen me. O good Jesus hear me. Within Your wounds, hide me. Separated from You let me never be. From the malignant enemy, defend me. In the hour of death call me, that with Your Saints, I may praise You forever &amp; ever. AMEN&nbsp;Peace be with you,&nbsp;Pastor Dale Skurla

From The Pastor's Desk - Soul of the Christ (“Amina Christi” )

This is the sixth post in a new series in which we sat down with our staff members and asked them about their experiences at St. Paul, and what brought them here. Sally has been serving St. Paul Lutheran School for ten years! She has not only brought her love for teaching but also a strong dedication towards amplifying God’s love and teachings to our youth. &nbsp;The impact that makes, is exactly what we love to see from our SPLCS faculty sow into our community.&nbsp; &nbsp; – Pam Robinson, Principal<h2>Spotlight: Sally Niemann</h2><figure id="figure-fxeh3esapomhcaeyds"><img id="fxeh3esapomhcaeyds" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/4LgcNYI0LK1ps5glb2BMZY0Ze6VHzzhNF4CtJT8714BwSWRuO8LSKF2PDaC9a1pJ.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: 50% 50%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="" data-positionx="50%" data-positiony="50%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/4LgcNYI0LK1ps5glb2BMZY0Ze6VHzzhNF4CtJT8714BwSWRuO8LSKF2PDaC9a1pJ.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: 50% 50%;"></figure>Hello, my name is Sarah Niemann (but everyone calls me Sally). &nbsp;Occasionally, I am known as “Bad Sally;” especially if I am seated next to Chyza in a staff meeting. I have been teaching at St. Paul Lutheran School since 2016. &nbsp;These past ten years have been filled with challenges, joyous moments, a few heartaches, and so many fabulous memories. &nbsp;After teaching in the public schools for many years, I was thankful to get the opportunity to teach in the parochial school connected to my church. &nbsp;I got my “foot in the door” when a part-time 1st grade teaching opportunity became available. &nbsp; It felt like coming home. I was thrilled to become the full-time 3rd/4th grade teacher the following year. &nbsp;Over the next few years, I also taught 4th, 5th, 6th, 7th, and 8th grades. &nbsp;The best part of teaching at St. Paul is that our focus is to keep Christ in the classroom at all times. &nbsp;Academics are important and our standards are high, but our focus is to guide students as they move forward with their personal relationship to God. &nbsp;It is a calling!Being afforded the opportunity to become a rostered teacher was a blessing. Throughout the Colloquy process, our congregation was supportive in every way possible, for which I will be forever thankful. &nbsp;My days in the classroom have always been wonderful because I love teaching. &nbsp;My days in St. Paul classrooms have been, and continue to be, daily blessings from God. &nbsp;In this building, I have had the chance to work in classrooms once occupied by such legends as Pam Floetke, Becky Denny, Becky Thomlinson, and Elmer Orlowski. &nbsp;There is a podium in my room which I inherited from Helen Genter. &nbsp;Resounding in these halls is the love and dedication to Christian education shown by these teachers and so many others since 1863. &nbsp; Being a small part of the oldest Lutheran school in Kansas is rewarding, to say the least. &nbsp;I am honored to be here.&nbsp;

Principally Speaking - Guiding Students with Their Personal Relationship to God

These thoughts about life from our 41st President, George HW Bush. They sound like they are coming directly out of the Bible, or, more specifically, the 10 Commandments. He states: "I cannot single out the one greatest challenge in my Life. I have had a lot of challenges and my advice to young people might be as follows”: 1. “Don't get down when your life takes a bad turn. Out of adversity comes challenge and often success.” 2. “Don't blame others for your setbacks.” 3. “When things go well, always give credit to others.” 4. “Don't talk all the time. Listen to your friends and mentors and learn from them.” 5. “Don't brag about yourself. Let others point out your virtues, your strong points.” 6. “Give someone else a hand. When a friend is hurting, show that friend you care.”7. “Nobody likes an overbearing big shot.” 8. “As you succeed, be kind to people. Thank those who help you along the way.” 9. “Don't be afraid to shed a tear when your heart is broken because a friend is hurting.” &nbsp;10. &nbsp;“Say your prayers!!" The Lord be with you,&nbsp;Pastor Dale Skurla Citation: Fox News, (2013, March 7), “President George Bush Shares Personal Stories”, http://www.foxnews.com/video/2209922188001&nbsp;

From The Pastor's Desk - A President's Ten Thoughts on Life

This is the fifth post in a new series in which we sat down with our staff members and asked them about their experiences at St. Paul, and what brought them here. Sally has been serving St. Paul Lutheran School for ten years! She has not only brought her love for teaching but also a strong dedication towards amplifying God’s love and teachings to our youth. &nbsp;The impact that makes, is exactly what we love to see from our SPLCS faculty sow into our community.&nbsp; &nbsp; – Pam Robinson, Principal<h2>Spotlight: Sally Niemann</h2><figure id="figure-fxeh3esapomhcaeyds"><img id="fxeh3esapomhcaeyds" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/13wKcVqC0wk1IcE3iixVGTjvHs12pWF7GpoKhlCw3mPexLCkKS1MmyFnJ5aFQhQP.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: 50% 50%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="" data-positionx="50%" data-positiony="50%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/13wKcVqC0wk1IcE3iixVGTjvHs12pWF7GpoKhlCw3mPexLCkKS1MmyFnJ5aFQhQP.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: 50% 50%;"></figure>I am Shannon Manley and I teach the PreK 3 class. &nbsp;I came to St. Paul four years ago. &nbsp;I have been so blessed by the kindness of everyone here. &nbsp;After spending a few years teaching 2nd Grade (and continually seeing children with holes in their development), I knew that I wanted to get back to teaching preschoolers. It is where I believe I can make the most impact — at the beginning of the educational journey, helping students develop a solid foundation for future academic success. &nbsp;I love teaching PreK. &nbsp;I love helping children develop confidence and a sense of independence. &nbsp;I love seeing them light up when they learn something new. &nbsp;I love watching them shine with the light of faith when they hear a new Bible story for the first time. &nbsp;I am grateful every day that I get to wake up and teach at St. Paul.&nbsp;

St. Paul Lutheran Church and School

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From The Pastor's Desk - A Final Word from Pastor Dale

Principally Speaking - Aligned with Helping Kids Thrive i...

From The Pastor's Desk - Soul of the Christ (“Amina Chris...

Principally Speaking - Guiding Students with Their Person...

From The Pastor's Desk - A President's Ten Thoughts on Life

Principally Speaking - Shifting to Guide Development from...