Mount Calvary Lutheran School’s connection between church and school is integral to the school culture. The school and Mount Calvary Lutheran Church share the same building, but Pastor Dan and Former Principal, Mr. Lunak have cultivated a much richer connection for the students than simply shared space. “For many of our students, their connection to God and church is at school and chapel. So the more we can focus on the connection between the school and the church, the better chance we have that they will continue to pursue faith after they graduate eighth grade,” says Mr. Lunak.

Jesus modeled discipleship with his followers - he taught them, coached them, came alongside them through challenging circumstances, and, in turn, they grew to know and deeply love the Lord. Today, discipleship amongst believers is much the same. Pastor Dan said, “Discipleship is about relationships. It’s about people along the way who have positively influenced you.” When asked why this is a priority at Mount Calvary, Mr. Lunak shared, “Life can be junk, but God loves you, and there’s redemption. That simple fact changed my life. So why would I not ensure everyone else - especially our students - had that same opportunity?”

Recognizing that so many kids view chapel as church, Pastor Dan agreed to be Dean of Chapels. This connection allows the kids to bridge the gap between Wednesday chapel and Sunday church by establishing a relationship with a pastor and removing some uncertainty about attending church. Additionally, Ben Peiring, Community Minister & Youth Director of Mount Calvary Lutheran Church, has done a fantastic job cultivating meaningful relationships with families and building trust with the church.

This investment in the faith of the 160 students has resulted in two baptisms in 2023– Mariah and Ayden. “Mariah has been at Mount Calvary since kindergarten. It was clear that baptism and a relationship with God and the church was her heart’s desire,” Pastor Dan shared. Ayden said, “I just love God and want to be closer to Him.”

The Sunday Ayden was baptized, a group of classmates and his teacher, Mr. Wendt came to church to support him. “The larger context of baptism is that it signifies a life of walking with Christ that involves a church family. Faith is not meant to be lived out in solitude,” shared Pastor Dan. “It’s always been in the context of a community of faith.” The faith community fostered through Mount Calvary Lutheran School & Church is unique and beautiful.

“Every event we do, we try to do with the church because the Church, the body of Christ, and faith are why the school is here. It’s the whole purpose of being a Lutheran school. We GET to focus on faith, God, and the church, so we try putting it in everything we do,” shared Mr. Lunak.

We praise God for the seeds being planted at Mount Calvary Lutheran School and for the blessing of Mariah and Ayden’s baptisms.