Lady Lions Basketball Team make history!

Lady Lions Basketball Team make history!

By Samantha DePriest

What a season it has been for our Lady Lions Basketball team!! We couldn’t be excited to share that our girls won the 2022-2023 Region 4A Championship game on Friday night!! Head Coach Joe Daniels was also voted Co-Coach of the Year for Region 4A. Congratulations to Coach Daniels and the entire coaching staff, and our Lady Lions on making Trinity history. We can’t wait to cheer you all on in State this Tuesday night at home at 6pm against Southeast Bulloch.

Coach Daniels shares, “This, by many, would have been considered a rebuilding year. We are a smaller team. We have spent the season without Lalah Logan - a beloved starter - due to injury. We stepped up in classifications from GHSA 1A Private to 4A and were not welcomed warmly in most places. Adversity has been the backdrop of the entire season. Through it all, we emerged as Region Champions last night.”

“This team finished the regular season 20-5, we were 13-1 in Region play, and 3-0 in the Region Tournament! I cannot begin to describe this group of young ladies and the character they have showed this season! Their will, determination, and willingness to fight together is unmatched, and our staff is honored to be their coaches. Congrat’s Lady Lions! You are CHAMPIONS! Now on to the State Tournament!”

Puerto Rico GO Week

Puerto Rico GO Week

By Samantha DePriest

Our Puerto Rico GO Week Team of 32 students and 1 TCS parent was led by High School Principal Kimberly Jones accompanied by Varsity Football Coach Kenny Dallas and High School Spanish teacher Nathan Blevins. This was Mrs. Jones second time leading the Puerto Rico GO Week trip and shared, “Our group served at YWAM (Youth With a Mission) and at the Center Cristiano Casa de Pacto assisting with painting, cleaning, and setting up their converted meeting space. Because of our students help, the center was ready to welcome families for services this Sunday. Praise the Lord! After serving in the community and putting in hours of work each day, our group enjoyed the sights in Old San Juan and even took a catamaran adventure complete with sand, scuba, slides, and smiles galore! We have enjoyed all aspects of our Puerto Rican adventure together!”

Trinity High School Spanish teacher Nathan Blevins shared, “I was able to go on the Puerto Rico trip with Coach Dallas, Mrs. Jones and Mrs. Stiehl (one of the senior's parent) and over 30 of our high school students. It was great to get to know some of our students on a closer level outside of the classroom, as well as get to know some students I did not know at all. We were able to work with YWAM (Youth With a Mission) which is a group that partners with local schools and churches to reach young people. The main focus of our work was helping prepare YWAM's facility for the upcoming school year, which begins in January in Puerto Rico. Our students jumped right in landscaping (mowing, weedeating, cutting down trees with chainsaws, hacking down heavy brush with machetes), prepping and painting fences, doing drywall, pressure washing and clearing out rooms. It was really neat to see our students jump in without hesitation or complaint to do some very tedious and difficult work. 

On a personal note, it was fun for me to get to use my Spanish in a non-classroom setting. I had several conversations with the YWAM leader and it was cool to see how encouraged he was by our group and how our efforts helped energized him and his team for the beginning of their busy season. 

Our group was also able to experience the local culture by walking the streets and markets of Old San Juan, exploring the area near our hotel, and enjoying the beach and a catamaran cruise. 

Overall I think it was a great experience for our group and our students gained a bigger appreciation for how blessed we are. I also think that it gave them a deeper sense of what really matters in life and how happiness is a result of a personal relationship with God!”

Florida Keys GO Week

Florida Keys GO Week

By Samantha DePriest

In last week’s article we traveled across the pond and learned about the Europe GO Week trip led by Mrs. Forde. This week we are back in the States to share about the Florida Keys GO Week trip. This GO Week trip was lead by High School Science Teacher and Varsity Swim Coach Devin James and fellow High School Science teacher Mr. Tommy Stell, as well as High School Literature teachers Mrs. Anna Maupin and Mrs. Ruth Wolleat.

   The team flew into Miami and visited Little Havana to experience the culture by tasting the delicious Cuban food and coffee, listening to the language and music, shopping local handmade goods, and visiting an Art museum. Some of the older students were even able to create their own graffiti art at the museum.

    The next few days the team spent their time exploring the Keys and were blessed with sunshine and warm temperatures. Day trips to Key Largo and Islamorada included a snorkeling tour, kayak excursion, dolphin encounter, airboat ride through the Everglades, and more.

Mr. James shared, “Our students spent time marveling at God's creation by snorkeling, swimming with the dolphins, kayaking, and more.”

Mr. James shared, “Our students also spent time at the Redlands Migrant Christian Association. They support the migrant community and our TCS students specifically helped in the childcare facilities. Students were split up in a bunch of different classrooms and helped the kids play, read, color, draw, and do puzzles. Our students did a great job with kids and we were really proud of how quickly they jumped in.” 

A little boy named Stephen, who wore a Spiderman sweatshirt, took a liking to the Trinity students and enjoyed playing games with them. When it was time for our student to leave, Stephen started crying and didn’t want them to go. It touched the hearts of all of our students that in such a short time they could make such an impact. Stephen will surely be remembered and prayed for by all of our students and staff.

Senior Dylan DePriest shared “It was an amazing experience to explore South Florida. I had never been to the Keys before. One of the coolest things we learned about was while kayaking through the mangroves, there is a particular plant which has one leaf that absorbs all the toxins so that the other leaves may thrive. It reminded us about Jesus taking the punishment for our sins.

   It was such an amazing time with friends and teachers. We definitely made a lot of memories on our trip. I will never forget little Stephen at the school we served at. This GO Week trip was a highlight of my Senior year at Trinity.”

  Mrs. Anna Maupin echoed Mr. James sentiments and shared “We were astounded by God’s creation during our trip to the Florida Keys! Our favorite part of the trip was definitely getting to play with the migrant workers children!”

Europe GO Week

Europe GO Week

By Samantha DePriest

We continue on this journey of learning about the stories and memories from our GO Week teams who traveled around the world to serve others and be immersed in God’s creation. This week we sat down with GO Week leader Mrs. Quincy Forde to hear about her teams journey across the pond to visit London, Normandy, and Paris on a trip known as the “World War II trip”. Mrs. Forde has been teaching at Trinity for 14 years and teaches AP US Government and Politics, both AP and Honors US History, and AP Psychology. She also serves as our National Honor Society Advisor for the High School. There is no one better than her to lead this group.

Mrs. Forde shared, “On January 1st, 35 Trinity students, teachers, parents, grandparents, and even 3 Trinity Alumni embarked on a life-changing World War 2 trip to London, Normandy, and Paris with Education First (EF) Tours.

Highlights in London included our exploration of the Churchill Warrooms, the Imperial War museum, the Royal Air Force museum, the US Belfast, and Bletchley Park where the German encoding machine, Enigma, was decoded. We also took an evening adventure into the West End for "dinner and a show": fish and chips, and the Lion King. In Paris, we were awed by the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, Les Invalides, the Palace of Versailles, and a Paris-by-night boat cruise along the Seine.

The most meaningful part of our trip, however, was visiting the beaches of Normandy. Here students read letters or poetry they had composed, and contemplated the enormous sacrifice made by the Allies on D-Day.

Cameron Todhunter - a TCS senior who is on course to join the US Air Force - represented Trinity at the American Cemetery in Colleville-sur-Mer. Together with his grandfather, combat veteran Col. Marcel Fauk, USA, (Ret.) he laid a wreath of remembrance before a three volley salute and the playing of taps. The Star Spangled Banner never sounded more moving as we stood and surveyed the field of white crosses lying quietly beneath our fluttering flag.

The travelers agreed that our nine days in Europe were profoundly rich in learning and relationship, and well worth the investment.”   

Mrs. Forde shared that the forecast called for rain but thanks be to God, they wound up having just a couple cloudy days and mostly beautiful weather. She also spoke of what a blessing it was that they were able to make visits to several places that weren’t on the original itinerary. The addition of such supportive parents and grandparents on the trip added to the richness of the experience.

Over the course of their trip, the students developed relationships with their tour director and bus driver. Students studied and learned about World War II Christians and each shared a story about their lives in devotions with the group and the EF guides. Mrs. Forde encouraged the students, “Do what God puts in front of you now and do it well.” On the steps of their hotel, the group prayed over the tour director. What a beautiful example of walking in the Faith!

Ecuador GO Week: Cotacachi

Ecuador GO Week

By Samantha DePriest

Two of our GO Week trips traveled to Ecuador last month to serve internationally. One of our trips was to Cuenca and was featured last week in the “Inside the Pride” and also on our website under Latest Stories. The 2nd trip to was to a place called Cotacachi, Ecuador. Ecuador is located on the west coast of South America bordering Colombia on the north and Peru on the south sitting on the equator. The city of Cotacachi is home to approximately 40,000 people and is famous for its leather goods. It is known as “leather town” for the abundance of shops that sell various leather products.

(Pictured left to right) Ken Jones, Nathan Jones, Logan Barnes, Porter Haire, Tai Pete, Ethan McDowell, Hasten Patel, Sam Smith, Shawn Braxton, Oliver Smart, Mr. Reed Shackelford, and Jack Thompson,

Ecuador GO Week Team led by Assistant Director of Student Development in the High School and High School Spanish teacher Mr. Reed Shackelford, who students lovingly refer to as “Shack”. Mr. Shackelford shares “We served alongside fellow believers from different parts of Ecuador. We served on a farm in the mountains helping with construction needs, harvesting fruit, and teaching kids how to play baseball. We also helped a local church build new walls, stain walls, and helped preserve the current place where they worship.

We had many meaningful conversations with believers about who the Lord is and how the same Lord that changes and works in our lives is the same Lord who is changing lives and working in lives in Ecuador. One of the most impactful things that we experienced was that we are all worshiping the same God no matter the language.

“This trip was one of the most impactful trips that I have had the opportunity to be a part of. We served with Teen Street in Cotacachi and the surrounding areas. The original plan that we had for the week was changed a week before we left, but the Lord's plans were bigger than our plans.

We had the opportunity to serve with a youth group at a farm that is owned by the church that we were serving with. The farm is named "Finca Proveedor" which means Provider Farm in English. The farm grows coffee, lemons, peppers, and many other vegetables. The profits from the farm help support the people who work on the farm as well as meet needs of the people in their community. We also had the opportunity to pick many of the crops as well as help with maintenance on the farm. We were serving and working alongside a youth group in the community.

Even though there was an obvious language barrier between our students and their students, it was so amazing to see our students serve diligently and build relationships with fellow believers even though they spoke a different language.

The rest of the week, we worked at a church that was established during the height of the pandemic. Through the Lord's faithfulness, this church has grown incredibly. We were able to help meet a need for the church. The church had a roof, but that was it. Throughout the week we were able to refinish the existing wood structure and help put up new walls. Our guys worked so hard and learned a lot of new skills. On Sunday, we worshiped with this church during their service.

Senior Shawn Braxton shared this take away, "Even though we were worshipping in a different language, it was amazing to realize that we were worshiping the same God."  

Memorable experiences like these give our students opportunities to put into practice all that they are learning both in school and in their homes. These are some of the main reasons our families tell us they choose Trinity Christian for their children’s education. The spiritual foundation and mentorship by our teachers and staff help give our students a place to launch that is unlike any other.

TCS Middle School Swim Team wraps up a strong season!

TCS Middle School Swim Team

wraps up a strong season

The TCS Middle School Swim Team, coached by Jodie Murr, had fun competing at the 2023 GAPPS State Championship meet this past Saturday, January 28th! The Girls’ team won 5th place and the Boys’ team won 4th place.

It was bittersweet for our 8th graders who competed in their last meet as middle schoolers. Eighth grade swimmer Malachi Ledesma has been on the swim team since 6th grade.

Many of our swimmers improved their event times throughout the season. Thanks to our new 6th and 7th grade swimmers, our swim team experienced growth this year. We look forward to even more participation next year. 

Congratulations to all of our swimmers who qualified and competed at this year’s State Championship meet!

(Pictured from left to right) Malachi Ledesma (8th), Patrick Moss (7th), Cooper Gallaway (6th), Sawyer Boone (6th), Ryleigh Tilley (7th), Elle Jerger (7th), Kennedie Callen (7th), Addison Klingler (6th), Taylor Clark (8th), Avery Ross (8th), Presley Boone (8th), and Emma Anderson (7th).

TRINITY MIKE FITZPATRICK FORD STUDENT

“ATHLETE OF THE WEEK” AWARDS

By Samantha DePriest

Trinity Christian School is honored to have Mike Fitzpatrick of Fitzpatrick Ford in Newnan recognize several of our Winter student athletes with the “Athlete of the Week” Award. We join Mr. Fitzpatrick in saying that we are wholeheartedly proud of these athletes who demonstrate qualities of leadership, character, and determination in their sport and on their teams. Below are our most recent recipients of the Fitzpatrick “Athlete of the Week Award”. Way to go Lions!!

Kyva Holloway

Basketball

1/2/23 - 10th grade

Kyva plays guard for our Varsity Girls Basketball Team. She’s a great defender, a great passer, has been much more assertive in her play this year….and most importantly, she is a a great student and teammate and a joy to coach. She does all of this while also juggling competitive Lacrosse!  

Olivia Osse

Flag Football

1/9/23 - 12th grade

Senior captain Olivia Osse is a true servant-leader. She inspires and motivates her teammates to be their best by the example she sets every day at practice: she demonstrates discipline, integrity, and toughness while being a critical element on both the offense and defense. 

Elijah Livingston

Wrestling
1/16/23 - 10th Grade

Elijah has been one of our most dedicated wrestlers this year.  He is a team captain even though he is only a sophomore.  His work ethic and commitment has earned him the respect he deserves.  He is leading the team in both the number of wins and pins.

Jon Koger

Basketball

1/30/23 - 11th Grade

Jon is an exceptional student in the classroom and extremely hardworking on the court.

Ecuador GO Week: Cuenca

Ecuador GO Week

By Samantha DePriest

Two of our GO Week trips traveled to Ecuador earlier this month to serve internationally. One of our trips was to Cuenca, Ecuador. Ecuador is located on the west coast of South America bordering Colombia on the north and Peru on the south sitting on the equator. Ecuador has a beautiful coastline on the west and the Andes mountains to the east. The city of Cuenca is known as one of the safest cities in the country and one of the gems from the Spanish colonial period.

Trinity Sophomore Micah Cobb leading devotions (with an interpreter) to students during soccer camp.

This trip was led by our Head of School Dr. Mark Anthony & TCS Director of Donor Services Mark Northcutt. Our Director of Soccer and Varsity/JV Boys Soccer Coach, Mike Townson, and Kayla Freund, Health/Athletic Performance, Girls' Lacrosse & Flag Football Head Coach, and Boys' & Girls' MS & HS XC Assistant Coach also helped lead the team with an amazing team of Trinity parents and students.

TCS Head of School, Dr. Anthony, shares “I am so proud of all of our students. They broke into groups and helped lead devotions and share scripture with over 100 kids each day. They even held a glow party. Trinity students Micah Cobb, David Compte, Abigail Pope, and Lily Wozniak led devotions for over 100 kids each each night.”

Mike Townson, TCS Director of Soccer and Head Varsity Soccer Coach, shared the excitement of hosting soccer camps for almost 1,000 students in Ecuador. Coach Mike shares, “Multiple camps and hundreds of kids experiencing Jesus and soccer each day! Our TCS Staff, students, and parents were amazing! I especially cannot brag on our students enough.”

Uniforms United, local non-profit in Peachtree City, sent suitcases full of soccer uniforms, balls, and cleats with our GO Week Ecuador team.

Trinity partnered with local non-profit Uniforms United to bring new or gently used soccer uniforms, balls, and cleats for the children in Ecuador. This is not the first time Trinity Christian School has partnered with Uniforms United. Co-founder Karen Hacker shares, “Uniforms United has had amazing support from TCS for the last 9 years. We cannot thank the school leadership, students, and families enough for the impact they have made. Uniforms United has donated new and gently use sports equipment to children in need in 11 countries across the globe. In 2020, GO Week missionaries personally brought donations to children in the Dominican Republic. What an amazing gift for all of us involved! This year we sent a large donation of mostly MOBA soccer uniforms to Ecuador. The mission team has told us that ‘the underserved, impoverished children thought the donations were spectacular and the town was covered in MOBA yellow!’ Thank you TCS!”

Ecuador GO Week Team

Trinity Sophomore Lily Wozniak (pictured on right, with interpreter on left) leading devotions.

The group also explored the beautiful country side and enjoyed zip lining through the Andes Mountains on their last day in Ecuador. They tried all new sorts of foods and experienced the beautiful sights of Cuenca.

Our GO Week team shares not only were the hearts of the people of Cuenca, but our students hearts were impacted as well. Witnessing God moving in the lives of our youth, this is what GO Week is all about!

Trinity Sophomore David Compte (pictured on right, interpreter on left) leading devotions.

Costa Rica GO Week

Costa Rica GO Week

By Samantha DePriest

When we asked our Costa Rica GO Week leadership team about their experience while serving in Central America and if they had a story or two they would like to share, their exact words were, “Which story? There are literally dozens.” Trinity High School Bible teacher and father to four of his own Trinity Lions Chris Paschal, led the trip of 40+ students along with fellow High School Bible teacher and Trinity Dad KC Lorow.

They shared, “Our lives are forever changed because of our GoWeek trip to Costa Rica. How do you describe the indescribable? When God meets a team of 40+ students and leaders that are willing and expecting to be used by Him to serve the poor and most vulnerable in our world they get to experience the indescribable. We went to bless the people of Costa Rica but became the blessed ones. Students worked shoulder to shoulder with locals to build a shelter for their families. We read books to the children, sang of God’s love, learned Spanish while painting, and kicked soccer balls in the slums of San Jose in the name of Jesus. I saw students lead other students into deeper faith. I heard testimonies of new life in Jesus. I witnessed a group of teenagers lost in worship. I’m now sitting with a classroom of students longing to go back, but with a renewed passion to bring the love of Jesus to Sharpsburg, GA. Thank you for supporting Trinity and GoWeek.”

Leaning in and listening to what our students learned from their experiences of serving in Costa Rica illustrates the many reasons for GO Week.

“While working in Costa Rica I saw God move in me and in my friend’s lives…When talking about Jesus to the kids it helped me realize what the word was really saying and how I can apply it to my life.” -Grace Flury

“I definitely felt God working in my life this week. I felt like God was with me wherever I went…I am experiencing God in new ways because we did devos every night but I also did my own every morning and listened to worship music.” -Ally Hamblin

“This trip has been so impactful in my life and has pushed me so  much closer to God. We never know who just needs to be seen and loved.” - Emma Kate Douglas

“God puts us in positions to share His love and what he has to offer and it is our job to take the initiative. It takes courage and boldness to do so, but the sense of fulfillment and excitement at the end of it is like no other. I was really encouraged to see God working in every. single. person. on my trip and I hope that never ends. God majorly worked in my life and I hope and plan to continue to grow this fire for Christ and continue to have an openness of talking about the Gospel to people and especially ones I don't know.” - Kate Sweitzer

“The Costa Rica trip was beyond words amazing!...I finally got the strength to talk to someone about the way I have been feeling toward God and about God…I have decided to take the next step in baptism. The ways I saw God move through this trip was mind blowing.” -Kayden Harrison

“There was not one moment that I didn't feel God by me. He was present the entire trip…I had never talked to these girls but their love for Jesus Christ was so obvious and I wanted to be just like them. Over this trip my relationship with God has grown a tremendous amount. It is unreal to me the joy that I feel now! So thank you for helping me grow my faith and showing me how much love God has for me.” -Anna Johnson

“Everyone on the trip came prepared to see the Lord move among us and among the family so when God moved it was very clear that it was happening.” - Grayson Ingram

“I got to be a part of someone hearing the light of Christ. It was so incredibly beautiful. I got the decision of baptism coming back. I am just speechless. There are no words to describe the love and compassion of others and God.” - Emelia McBurnett

“Seeing people give their lives to Christ was such an amazing thing to experience and just being able to be a part of that was awesome. This week taught me to be bold and step out of my comfort zone, because when you tell others about how God has impacted you it impacts others as well” -Jordyn Rawlings 

“God showed me how fulfilling a life is with him. He showed me a life of helping others and being obedient. During our devotions and worship time I started understanding how much God truly loves me. I've always been told that and said that but I truly understand the extent of it now.”  - Kate Weeks

“God taught me these things while in Costa Rica: to be grateful for what I have been blessed with and never take it for granted. That God is present everywhere and is always working things to his glory. True contentment and joy is found in the Lord alone. Purpose is found in showing the love of Christ to others. God uses community to spur spiritual growth. Worship doesn't have to be inside a Church. You can never plan or know exactly how God will use situations or people to impact you.” - Austin Morrow

“I now feel that I have the liberty to influence others with my love for Christ, because I too was influenced by those in Costa Rica” - Josh Savoy

“Through one week I got to see hearts change, I grew deeper in my faith, I had the so called "hard talks" with people, I had moments that I was able to not only be bold in my faith, but also see my friends be bold in theirs. That week wasn't just a normal week, it was a week that the Lord showed up and exceeded all expectations. That week I got opportunities to talk with groups of girls about Christ and how powerful his love is. We saw brokenness all around us, yet through all of that God’s love was evident in action and hearts. I got to be surrounded by people that were chasing after what the Lord had for them and it was one of the greatest experiences.” Ava Anthony

Arizona GO Week

Arizona GO Week

By Samantha DePriest

One of the most important objectives of GO Week is that our students will return to our campus different than they left. We pray that their time traveling to new places and serving others is impactful. Our hope is that hearts are softened to the needs of others around the world and eyes are opened to the beauty of God’s magnificent creation. Over the coming weeks, we will be sharing stories from each of the GO Week trips to both inspire and encourage our school community to reach beyond our walls and share God’s love.

Tent City

Image by: Shannon Bragg

Trinity’s Arizona GO Week team lead was Shannon Bragg. Mrs. Bragg also serves as our 11th & 12th grade Skills Development Teacher and Student Council Advisor.  Mrs. Bragg shared, “Our team partnered with a church called Church on the Streets (https://cotsphoenix.org) and heard testimony’s from men who used to be in prison but were rescued thanks to this church. These men now attend weekly Bible studies and witness to those currently on the streets. These men do missions on the streets and are on fire for God. It was amazing to sit in a Bible study with them and witness alongside them. The opportunity to serve alongside this ministry showed our students the power of God. Students witnessed the way some people lived and how relationships could bridge the homeless with God’s word. Students passed out sandwiches and Bible tracks to those living on the streets”.

pictured left to right; Kara Joy Bragg, Cacie Cutright, and Mary Kathryn White handing out sandwiches in tent city.

High School Nurse Kacey White shares, “Visiting ‘tent city’ with our students was eye opening for us all. The people living on the streets were living very hard lives. It gave us the opportunity to pray with them and also share later during devotionals with our students how the decisions some of these folks made earlier in life with regards to drugs and alcohol led to situations like this. We talked about choices and consequences that can come from one single choice. Most importantly, we were able to talk about their need for Jesus and how impactful our time was there to encourage and share God’s love.”

Bible Tracks that our student handed out.

Image by: Shannon Bragg

The Arizona team was also able to explore God’s creation while out amazing destinations out west including Bell Rock and Sedona. They were even blessed to experience snow in Flagstaff and the Grand Canyon. The team also spent time at Lowell Observatory learning about astronomy. One of our students shared how in awe she was how God created each and every star and created her.

Throughout their time out West, the group ran into bad weather but Mrs Bragg shared joyfully that “God was always a few steps ahead. We had planned to go hiking and it was raining, then the rain stopped. Thank you Lord. We were at the Grand Canyon and it was quite foggy when we arrived, then the fog lifted so we were able to see into the magnificent canyon. Similar weather conditions in Sedona happened and cleared up during our time there. Our students loved exploring that area of our beautiful country and even tried new foods. They ate Cactus fries at one of the local restaurants and said they tasted like fried pickles.”

Grand Canyon in the snow

Image by: Shannon Bragg

Trinity Alumni Kara Joy Bragg (previously featured in “Inside the Pride” and on our TCSLions.org website stories section) joined the GO Week team as a chaperone. Kara Joy led daily devotions which helped foster and build relationships with our students on the trip. What a blessing it was to have her on the team. Her leadership allowed her to share her Faith in such a positive way and connect as a young adult close in age.

Trinity sophomore Mary Kathryn White shares, “Our trip to Arizona for GO week was so much fun!! Being able to go out and serve along with enjoying God’s creation was so eye opening! Ending each night with a devotional from Kara Joy was truly a great reminder of our calling to live for Christ!”

We are so grateful for opportunities like these for our students to apply what they are learning inside of our classrooms outside of school, Our staff enjoys getting to pour into our students throughout GO Week as well. We look forward to sharing more about this years GO Week trips over the coming weeks ahead.

TCS GO Week 2023

TCS GO WEEK 2023

By Samantha DePriest

  Each January, Trinity Christian School provides wonderful opportunities for all of our high school students through something we call “GO Week”. It gives them a chance to share their Faith and serve others while visiting and exploring God’s creation in new places and making new friends. This past week, we had teams on 3 continents with Joshua Expeditions. Please click the link below to learn more about Joshua Expeditions:

Joshua Expeditions

A few weeks before the trip, our school community gathered together in a “Night of Prayer” to lift up our students, parents, and staff members in prayers as well as the lives they will touch during their time on mission. They prayed that the Gospel would be spread, that people would feel God’s love, hearts would be transformed, for safe travels, bravery to share the Gospel and help others, and for the opportunity to go and make an impact.

This year there were 9 teams who traveled both stateside and internationally for GO Week including Arizona, Costa Rica, 2 teams in Ecuador, Europe, Florida Keys, Montana, Puerto Rico, and Yosemite.

Arizona Go Week Team led by Shannon Bragg

Arizona GO Week Team lead Shannon Bragg shares, “Our team partnered with a church called Church on the Streets and had the opportunity to pass out sandwiches and tracts to the homeless in downtown Phoenix. It was such an eye opening experience for us. We also heard testimony’s from men who used to be either in prison or on the streets, but were rescued thanks to this church. They now attend weekly Bible studies and then witness to those currently on the streets. It was cool to sit in a Bible study with them and witness alongside them on the streets. It really showed our students the power of God.” The Arizona team also was able to take in God’s creation as they hiked Bell Rock Mountain in Sedona and experienced the Grand Canyon in the snow.

Costa Rica GO Week Team led by TCS Bible teachers, KC Lorow & Chris Paschal.

Our Costa Rica GO Week team joined two families to build two houses, one for each family. One family is a family of five, the Familiar Marcio Orozco. The other is a family of four, Familia Mora Garcia. The team also got a chance to grocery shop for them and celebrate their new homes. Prayers were answered when Gospel conversations arose for students, there was fellowship around the Word, and awareness of the ways the Lord is moving.

Ecuador GO Week Team led by TCS Head of School Dr. Anthony & TCS Director of Donor Services Mark Northcutt 

TCS Head of School, Dr. Anthony, shares “I am so proud of all of our students. They broke into groups and helped lead devotions and share scripture with over 100 kids each day. They even held a glow party.” Mike Townson, Director of Soccer and Head Varsity Soccer Coach at TCS, shared the excitement of hosting soccer camps for almost 1,000 students in Ecuador. Coach Mike shares, “Multiple camps and hundreds of kids experiencing Jesus and soccer today! Our TCS Staff, students, and parents are amazing…I can’t brag on our students enough.” The group explored the beautiful country side and enjoyed zip lining through the Andres Mountains on their last day in Ecuador.

Ecuador GO Week Team (different trip) led by High School teacher Reed Shackelford

Ecuador GO Week Team led by Assistant Director of Student Development Reed Shackelford had a full week of serving and made quite an impact. Reed shares “We served alongside fellow believers from different parts of Ecuador. We served on a farm in the mountains helping with construction needs, harvesting fruit, and teaching kids how to play baseball. We helped a local church build new walls, stained walls, and helped preserve the current place where they worship. We had many meaningful conversations with believers about who the Lord is and how the same Lord that changes and works in our lives is the same Lord who is changing lives and working in lives in Ecuador. One of the most impactful things that we have seen is that we are worshiping the same God no matter the language.” 

Europe (WWII) GO Week Team led by High School History teacher Quincy Forde

Trinity History teacher Quincy Forde is still leading our Europe (WWII) GO Week team on a journey on the other side of the pond. The team has visited London, the Imperial War Museum, Tower Bridge, Normandy, and even laid a wreath at the American cemetery. They are still overseas on their trip and exploring the sights in Paris and Versailles today. We can’t wait to learn more about their adventures when they return to the states and pray for their safe travels back on Monday evening.

Florida Keys GO Week team led by High School Science teacher Devin James

Florida Keys GO Week team was lead by High School Science Teacher and Varsity Swim Coach Devin James shared, “Our students spent time marveling at God's creation by snorkeling, swimming with the dolphins, kayaking, and more. They also spent time at the Redlands Migrant Christian Association. They support the migrant community and our TCS students specifically helped in the childcare facilities. Students were split up in a bunch of different classrooms and helped the kids play, read, color, draw, and do puzzles. Our students did a great job with kids and we were really proud of how quickly they jumped in.” 

Montana GO Week Team led by High School Bible teacher Patrick Brannon 

Our Montana GO Week Team was led by High School Bible teacher Patrick Brannon. The team visited downtown Livingston, Montana and Sacajawea Park. They also spent time exploring “Paradise Blvd” to Yellowstone National Park with magnificent views of God’s creation. They visited the main trash site for the town, as the community does not have trash service for various reasons, and cleaned up the entire location. They also cleaned up a church for youth night, set up an assembly line to pack food for the local community for the Backpack program, and created invite cards for youth night. JP Weaver, Trinity High School Director of Student Development on the trip, shared the impact was deeply felt by both the students and pastor in that community as well as within our group of Trinity GO Week students.

Puerto Rico GO Week Team led by High School Principal Kimberly Jones.

Our Puerto Rico GO Week Team was led by High School Principal Kimberly Jones. Kimmy shares, “Our group served at YWAM and at the Center Cristiano Casa de Pacto assisting with painting, cleaning, and setting up their converted meeting space. Because of our students help, the center was ready to welcome families for services this Sunday. Praise the Lord! After serving in the community and putting in hours of work each day, our group enjoyed the sights in Old San Juan and even took a catamaran adventure complete with sand, scuba, slides, and smiles galore! We have enjoyed all aspects of our Puerto Rican adventure together!”

Yosemite GO Week team led by High School teacher Taylor Bouma

Our Yosemite GO Week team was led by High School teacher Taylor Bouma. The team ran into some bad weather upon arrival and had to make some last minute adjustments to their trip, but weathered out the storm and made the best of it. The team visited Dave & Buster’s until the storm passed on, and then hiked Land’s End and Golden Gate Park, explored Fisherman’s Wharf and rode bikes across the Golden Gate Bridge. Exploring the west coast of our beautiful country was both eye opening and memorable for this wonderful group of students and staff.

TCS One Act Chosen to Perform at Thescon

TCS One Act Chosen to Perform at Thescon

By Samantha DePriest

Coming up the second week of February, students from all over the state will head to Columbus for Thescon.. Thescon is the annual High School Georgia Thespians Theatre Conference. The GA Thespians are part of the International Thespian Society that honors students who spend significant, intentional time in theatre. The conference offers workshops from industry professionals, challenges for students to show their skills in theatre, and performances to celebrate high school theatre. 

Over 200 schools are attending Thescon and only 25 shows are chosen to perform. While not every school applies to perform, it is an extreme honor to be one of the chosen. This is the first time Trinity Christian School will perform at Thescon. Lizzie Perez, Trinity Theatre Director, shares “The Springer in Columbus is such a cool space and we couldn’t be more excited for this group of students to get to perform there in front of hundreds of students. Thank you for all of your support!”

We are thrilled our students get the chance to perform and will be praying for each of them as they prepare for this amazing opportunity to share the gifts and talents that God has given them. Let’s Go Lions!

Trinity 1st Ever Float in the Light Up Senoia Christmas Parade

TRinity 1st Ever Float in the

“LIght Up Senoia” Christmas Parade!

By Samantha DePriest

What a special invitation Trinity Christian School received to participate in the 2022 “Light Up Senoia” Christmas Parade. It was the 1st time to be a part of the parade for TCS and was a wonderful way to engage with the community and spread Christmas cheer. An outstanding team of Trinity parents led by Nancy McPherson, Leslie & Dan Odom, Kathryn James, Amy Patterson, and Tanya Harris went above and beyond to help to create a truly magical float. Nancy McPherson shared, “This float took a team of parents coming together and sharing their talents and gifts. It wasn’t any one person, it took all of us to make it happen.“ The Trinity float looked like something right out of movie when it came through downtown Senoia.

Our Trinity Cheer Coach Gale Hickman and her squad of JV & Varsity Cheerleaders walked with our Little Lions Cheer Campers up Main Street ringing jingle bells and wearing purple Christmas hats. Snow filled the air all around our float with our Trinity Lion waving at all the families lining the streets.

A very special thank you goes out to our incredible sponsors - Taylor Marie Creations Balloon Decor, Golden’s on the Square, Penco, M&R Printing, Brick House Self Storage, and Associated Fuel Systems. “We could not have made this float come to life without the help of these sponsors,” shared team lead Nancy McPherson.

TCS Cheer Mom and Parade Float Designer Nancy McPherson

(pictured left to right) TCS Cheerleaders Caroline McPherson and Emelia McBurnett.

TCS Christmas float ready for the parade.

(pictured left to right) TCS Assistant Head of School Blake Bass and Varsity Cheer Coach Gale Hickman

TCS Varsity and JV Cheer Squad

Thank you to our amazing sponsors.

Merry Christmas to all, and to all, a good night!

TRINITY MIKE FITZPATRICK FORD STUDENT “ATHLETE OF THE WEEK” AWARDS

By Samantha DePriest

Trinity Christian School is honored to have Mike Fitzpatrick of Fitzpatrick Ford in Newnan recognize several of our Fall student athletes with the “Athlete of the Week” Award. We join Mr. Fitzpatrick in saying that we are wholeheartedly proud of these athletes who demonstrate qualities of leadership, character, and determination in their sport and on their teams. Below are our most recent recipients of the Fitzpatrick “Athlete of the Week Award”. Way to go Lions!!

Anna Aycock

Softball

11/14/22

Anna is like a sponge. As a Freshman, she is one of the most coachable kids and is always eager to get better at the game. She is willing to do whatever she has to do to help her team and teammates get the job done.

Henry BrodnaX

Football

11/28/22

Henry Brodnax is a Senior Quarterback who currently leads region 4-4-A in all passing categories (Yards, completions, and yards per game). Henry is also currently #2 in all of 4-A in completion yards at almost 2000 yds with a few games left and has led his team to wins over both Starr’s Mill and Whitewater. Henry not only excels on the field but also in the classroom with a current 4.21 GPA! Henry volunteers his time to assist the state-ranked girls' Varsity Flag Football team. Henry is a leader both on our team and in our school.

Anna Grace Moore

Flag Football

12/5/22

Anna Grace Moore is in 9th grade and has had a tremendous freshman season, having over a 60% completion rate. Last week, she led her offense to outscoring area opponents 32-0. She is dynamic and versatile, and she sets a great example to her teammates in always looking for ways to improve.

SeAnna Johnson

Flag Football

12/12/22

SeAnna Johnson is a Sophomore and has scored six touchdowns and two extra points in seven games. She is a starter both offensively and defensively for the Lions, and is consistent and reliable. She is known to make big plays in crucial moments, demonstrating composure and confidence in stressful moments.

Trinity Alumni Hans Troyer Competes in NCAA D2 Nationals

Trinity Alumni Hans Troyer competes

in NCAA D2 Nationals

By Samantha DePriest

Hans Troyer holds the record for the fastest 1600m Sprint Medley and Cross Country 5k.

If you have ever come to a Trinity Cross Country or Track Meet, you would probably hear the name Hans Troyer mentioned. You may not have seen much of him though as he is one of the fastest Lions to ever lace up a pair of spikes and run with our Trinity purple, black, and white on. Hans graduated TCS in 2018 and still holds records today that hang outside the weight room for the 1600m Sprint Medley and 5k Cross Country. His sweet mom, Mrs. Peggy Troyer, was also our Trinity High School Nurse for many years (in case the last name sounded familiar).

Hans pictures with his wife Grace Troyer, former Trinity TFXC student athlete.

Hans Trooper is the top runner for Augusta University and is no stranger to the NCAA D2 Nationals. He was named PBC All-Conference as well as to the PBC Team of Academic Distinction the last 3 years of college which is quite an accomplishment to be celebrated!

Hans Troyer finished 1st for Augusta University.

The Augusta University men's cross country team competed this afternoon in the NCAA Division II National Championship meet. The meet was at Chambers Creek Regional Park in University Place, Washington. Seattle Pacific University hosted the meet as part of the D2 Championships Festival. Hans ran an amazing race and finished with a 10k time of 31:26.8 placing him just shy of the top 100 out of 257 of the fastest runners in the country.

Trinity Track and Field Director and Coach JP Weaver shares, “After winning their 4th consecutive Peach Belt Conference Championship, the Augusta University Cross Country and Track & Field team recently finished 2nd overall at the Southeast Regionals. Hans leads his teammates, finishing in 9th place overall, helping secure an automatic bid to Nationals!”

Coach Weaver continues, “I am extremely thrilled and excited for Hans! More importantly, it is amazing to see this young man use his God-given talents both on and off the trails and track. I am thankful to cheer on Hans from a distance, but also being able to see him run most recently at his conference championship. Additionally, being able to coach Hans, both in middle school and high school, witnessing all his achievements is priceless! My charge to Hans, run your race and finish strong!

1 Corinthians 9:24”

We are so proud of Hans and all of his accomplishments both on and off the race course. Congratulations to him and the Troyer family!

Trinity Partners with Bloom Closet This Christmas

Trinity Partners with Bloom

Closet This Christmas

By Samantha DePriest

Last month Trinity Christian School connected with local non-profit Bloom Closet about how to help during the Christmas season. Our little lions at our TCS - GO Church location decorated paper angels and hung them on a Christmas tree in the lobby of the Early Learning building. At their Thanksgiving program before break, families were encouraged to choose a paper angel off the tree that had a child’s name and wish list item on the back. Families shopped for Christmas gifts and delivered them this week..

At the Bloom Closet in Fayetteville, foster children receive clothing, toys, and other items - all at no cost. The Bloom Closet Express, a traveling boutique, reachers foster children all over the state of Georgia. It was parked outside of our TCS - GO Church campus so families could learn how children in the foster care system could shop to new items. The Bloom Closet provides clothing, toys, and other items to more than 5,000 foster children right here in our state. The Bloom Closet webpage has more information about this wonderful ministry, volunteer opportunities, and ways to make a donations.

Jill Cook, Community Engagement Specialist with Bloom Closet and TCS Mom, shares, “The impact the Angel Tree makes in the lives of these foster children is immeasurable.” She loved showing how God has blessed the Bloom Closet Express as it was full of items for children to shop in. Jill also shared that, “The gifts are given to the Bloom foster children at the Bloom holiday party and under the tree on Christmas morning. Bloom’s foster children come from situations of neglect, abandonment, and other tragic circumstances. For most, this will be their first year celebrating the holidays with a new foster family. With your help, we can make each and every Christmas a very special memory for the children in Bloom’s care.“

Pictured left to right: Siblings Greta and Jack Heiling with Tanner and Tyler Wade with gifts they brought in for the Angel Tree.

1st Place Win For Trinity Varsity Swim Team

1st Place Win for Trinity Varsity Swim Team

By Samantha DePriest

Images by Michele Seymour

Swimming is in its 8th season at Trinity with HS Science Teacher Mr. Devin James as our Varsity Coach and Ms. Jodie Murr as the Middle School Coach and Head Swim Coach for TCS. Our Varsity Swim team took 1st place at the AGS Meet on Friday, November 18th and Middle School Swim team placed 9th. We asked the Coaching staff about the season so far and they have never been more excited for this swim season at Trinity.

Varsity Swim Coach Devin James shares “The first 4 meets of the varsity swim season have been great. We had two state qualifiers as early as the second meet of the season. In addition to that, our boys relay is only 3 seconds away from a state qualifying time. We also broke several team records already. I am also very proud that at our most recent meet the varsity team took 1st place overall at AGS swim meet at Georgia Tech. Every varsity swimmer there had at least one, if not several, top 5 finishes in that meet. We have two swimmers already qualified for state with a couple only a couple seconds away including our boys relay team. We had a great swim at state last year and had several top 20 finishes for our division in the state. We are looking to be even more competitive this year as we already have so many qualifying times. I am so proud of the team so far and am very excited for the rest of the season.”

Middle School Swim Coach Jodie Murr shares, “The middle school has accomplished a lot in the first meets of the season! We have had several state qualifiers in many events. The swimmers have done a great job of getting personal best times at each meet and event that they swim. We have many swimmers who have never competed before and all swimmers continue to grow in their development. We have a middle school only meet this Saturday and we are sure the team will do great and have even more time drops and personal bests!”

TCS Swim Team Highlights

Kaitlyn Seymour (Sr) is a returning Individual State Qualifier from last year.

Jackson Rice (Jr), Bryce Ryan (So), and Elliott Pabst (So) are returning State Relay Qualifiers.

Bryce Ryan has qualified for state in the 100 Fly, 200 & 500 Freestyle and 100 Backstroke.

Kaitlyn Seymour has qualified for state in the 50 & 100 Freestyle

Kaitlyn & Bryce have broken a combined 7 school records in 4 meets.

Kaitlyn: 50yd, 100yd & 200yd Freestyle

Bryce: 200yd & 500yd Freestyle, 100yd Backstroke, & 100yd Fly

Pictured left to right; Kaitlyn Seymour, Kaylyn Tackett, Ashlyn Ing, and Emma Kate Yeager

Pictured left to right: Niko Pagsisihan, Henry Zueck, Jackson Rice, Bryce Ryan, and Elliot Pabst

Back row pictured left to right: Emma Anderson, Elle Jerger, Avery Ross, and Taylor Clark

Front row pictured left to right: Ryleigh Tiley, Presley Boone, Jillian Schriks, and Kennedy Callen

Pictured left to right: Garres Bugden, Malachi Ledesma, Sawyer Boone, Cooper Gallaway, and Patrick Moss

Annual Trinity Franksgiving Meal Impacts Community

Happy Franksgiving

By Samantha DePriest

Photos by Oscar Camejo

It all started back in November of 2003 when Patricia Ann Griffin (Johnson) started the “Thanksgiving Plates” outreach. Mrs. Patricia’s son Frankie Johnson (or “Mr. Frankie” as we all know him around Trinity), his wife Dorothy, and the Trinity Church outreach team prepared and serve a Thanksgiving meal to members of our community. A few years back Trinity Church Pastor John Steinklauber started calling it “Franksgiving” as a light joke and it stuck. Franksgiving continues to be a blessing each November.

Over 100 volunteers met in the Gathering Place on Thanksgiving morning at 9am with their delicious dishes and desserts. A record number of volunteers showed up to help prep and deliver of hundreds of plates by 12:30pm.  Volunteers dropped off food, prepared plates, and delivered meals. They came with turkey, ham, chicken, potato salad, mac & cheese, green beans, collard greens, rolls, cornbread dressing, pound cake, sweet potato pie, and pumpkin pie all made with love.

Once the meals in to go boxes were made, a team of happy helpers hand delivered them to families in the community including but not limited to; Highlands Apartments, Eastgate Apartments, Lower Fayetteville Rd mobile homes, Welcome Rd mobile homes across from Trinity Baptist Church, Wynnmead Community, Palmetto mobile homes behind Frank’s restaurant, homes in Newnan, Stay Lodge and Home Lodge extended stay motels, and homeless walking the streets.

Because of the generosity of both time and resources, this years Franksgiving was the best yet as 873 meals were served! This is the highest number ever! Frankie shares, “God gets all get glory!” What a beautiful illustration of the impact that can be made when a growing group of compassionate believers come together to reach those in need right across the street.

Trinity Senior Tai Peete Signs To Play Baseball at Georgia Tech

Trinity Senior Tai Peete Signs to Play Baseball in Georgia

Tai pictured with parents Eric Peete and Yuki Braxton.

By Samantha DePriest

On November 14th Trinity Senior Tai Peete signed and committed to play baseball at Georgia Tech with plans to major in Business. Tai started at Trinity in 9th grade and jumped right in to campus life. He plays baseball and has also played basketball while in high school at Trinity. Tai has served in BETA Club and participates in Discipleship Group (D-Group) with leaders Mr. Lorow and Mr. Shackelford. He has traveled outside the country to Costa Rica for Trinity GO week as a freshman and plans to serve abroad in Ecuador this coming January ‘23. On Friday nights in the Fall, Tai can be found leading the student section on the ladder at varsity football games cheering on his brother and D1 recruit Shawn Braxton.

When asked about his time at Trinity, Tai shares that TCS has taught him how to be a leader. Several teachers at Trinity have made an impact on him. Tai shares that “Coach Elrod taught me how to stay loose on the field and Mr. Shackelford is just cool to be around.”

Tai was honored to be 2022-All County Offensive Player of the Year and 1st Team All-Region in 2021. Last summer, Team USA invited Tai for team trials and he played on the PG All American All Star team this past summer. We are excited to see what the upcoming baseball season at Trinity holds for Tai and the Lions. Coach Tommy Gregg adds, “We are hoping Tai will help us win a State Title!”

Tai pictured center with parents Yuki Braxton and Eric Peete.

Tai Peete pictured surrounded by family on signing day.

Tai’s Mom Yuki Braxton shares “Trinity prepares each child individually and sets up an environment that will fit each student. Trinity has been very supportive in Tai’s baseball journey. The teachers and administration has been flexible and willing to help him each step of the way. The school has helped him reach his dreams. Principal Mrs. Kimmy Jones and the entire Admin team has been with our family from day one. We are so grateful that Tai has been able to take advantage of the Trinity student culture and campus life. Tai is excited to play at the next level.”

Tai Peete pictured center with friends.

Tai Peete’s family and friends praying over him.

Donate Life: Trinity Teacher’s Inspiring Story

Donate Life: Trinity Teacher’s Inspiring Story

By Samantha DePriest

Image from Mayo Clinic website

For as long as she can remember, Trinity Art Teacher Erica Hackworth has been friends with Kerri Burke who serves as the All Star Director at The Rock in Peachtree City. Kerri and her husband Phillip just celebrated 29 years of marriage and have 4 children. Erica recalls learning about Kerri’s diagnosis of a genetic illness called Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) when Kerri’s children were little and Erica was their Gymnastics coach. PKD is an inherited disorder in which clusters of cysts develop primarily within your kidneys, causing your kidneys to enlarge and lose function over time. Kerri is not alone in her battle as her Dad and brother also were diagnosed with PKD. Erica immediately felt God tugging on her heart with an eagerness to learn more about how she could help her friend.

Image from NIDDK, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, website

Kerri’s illness has progressed over the years and she is now in desperate need of a kidney transplant.  Unbeknownst to Kerri, Erica started researching living donations a while back. Sadly she found out she was not a perfect match for Kerri, however she discovered that she was able to be a part of the Paired Donation Program. The Paired Donation Program is best explained on their website: “For paired donation, donors and their recipients aren't compatible for a transplant. However, the donor of each pair is compatible with the recipient of the other pair. If both donors and recipients are willing, your doctors may consider a paired donation. This program provides a way for people to receive a living-donor transplant instead of being on the deceased-donor waiting list for several years.” The program is at the Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, Florida where almost 1,000 kidney transplants are performed each year. Mayo Clinic Paired Donation

Earlier this year, Erica underwent months of testing and a long line of questioning before she could move forward with the donation. Erica shared that she felt confident in her decision from day one to donate one of her kidneys and a sense of God’s peace through it all. She shared, “God led me to this decision and when He calls you to help someone - what can you do? It can be as simple as checking a box. As a believer, I can’t let fear be a factor. This is not a story about me, but rather about redemption and how He can make something good out of something horrible.” Erica received the call in September and surgery was scheduled for a few weeks later. Unfortunately, Hurricane Ian was bearing down on the state of Florida and her surgery had to be moved. On October 5th, Erica underwent surgery to remove one of her kidney’s. She spent a little over a week in the hospital and was back to school a few weeks later. When asked how she was feeling now, Erica smiled and said she is officially part of the “One Bean Club”, as kidney’s are bean shaped organs about the size of a fist located below the rib cage, and is feeling better each day.

Erica Hackworth on the left pictured with dear friend Kerri Burke.

Erica’s kidney was transported immediately up to the Northeast to a male who now has a 2nd chance at life. Kerri shares “Erica did the most amazing thing you could do for someone and she never hesitated. She is truly the most selfless and giving person I know. She never wavered in her decision, not for one second.” Because of Erica’s decision to participate in a Paired Organ Donation, this puts Kerri further up the waiting list to receive a new kidney. Kerri leans on her strong Faith and family to get her through the waiting. Kerri also shares how blessed she feels to have a supportive husband and children walking this journey with her. She is so grateful for her bosses The Hearn’s (owners of The Rock in Peachtree City as well as a Trinity family) who have been so gracious to give her time off when she is sick or has doctor appointments. She prays every day for the donor who will give her the gift of life.

Learning about Kerri and Erica’s story is an important reminder of how we are able to offer help to friends in need. As believers, there are many ways in which we can minister to others while they are going through hard times. Whether through words of encouragement, the gift of time spent together, and prayers, there are endless ways in which we can support one another. We are so grateful for Erica sharing her story of how she chose to help a friend and couldn’t be happier that she is back at school teaching Art to all of our students. The beautiful example she set is one we hope will inspire our Lion Nation to. be the hands and feet to those around us.

How can we help?

Awareness - share this story with others and click on the links to learn more.

Conversation - talk with your family about the many ways to help those in need in our community.

Donate - click on Red Cross Blood to give blood and learn more about organ donation in Georgia at Organ Donor before you renew your drivers license.

Prayer - Pray that God brings the right person along at the right time with a healthy kidney to donate to Kerri. Pray for Kerri’s strength and mental health as she continues with dialysis while waiting for a transplant. And join us in prayer that God would draw Kerri’s children and husband close during this time as they watch Kerri fight this battle.