One of the key words in the tag line for Woodstock Christian School is ‘COMMUNITY’. Dictionary definitions for community range from a very generic definition - a group of people living together in one place to a more holistic one - a feeling of fellowship with others, as a result of sharing common attitudes, interests, and goals. Even this one, though, does not capture what it means to be Christian community, to be united in Christ. Our theme at Woodstock Christian School this year comes from Ephesians 4, and the entire chapter is titled Unity and Maturity in the Body of Christ. The apostle Paul says “I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace (vs 1-3).” I saw many examples of community at work last week. Buddy classes began and as older and younger students joined together, reading to one another, playing outdoor games together, enjoying conversations, there was a real sense of community. Students in the playground were looking out for one another, helping a fallen friend, getting an ice pack for someone with a bumped head, and playing tag or soccer together. Parents waiting for their children in the foyer after school exchanged greetings, arranged play dates, and generally caught up after the summer break. During the Welcome Evening and Dessert Social on Friday evening, the school was buzzing with conversation, laughter, and enjoyment. Such a blessing to be together! On the flip side, because we are part of a sinful and broken world, there were also instances of disunity, wilfulness, and selfishness. Proverbs 6:16-19 speaks shockingly directly about “six things the Lord hates, seven that are detestable to him – one of which is a person who stirs up conflict in the community. As we head into week three of our school year, continue to pray for unity and peace for our classrooms, our playground, and our larger school community.