Good News 

Greetings in the name of Jesus, I hope your summer has turned out to be better than you expected. We now move into the fall months with more regularity in our schedules. Where does the summer go? We all ask the same question. But, that’s life, as we move through its rhythms and cycles. A return to school for students is clearly one of the most noticeable changes. For Immanuel Christian Academy, this school year is one of great achievement. ICA will reach an historic milestone. This year we will celebrate our 170th year of continued Christian education in Hillside. That is no small feat. Just think about how ICA has contributed to the community throughout its history. Imagine the thousands of students who received an outstanding education for seventeen decades. That is truly something to praise God for. “Be glad in the Lord, and rejoice, O righteous, and shout for joy, all you upright in heart!” (Psalm 32:11). ICA has been “Glorifying God and Impacting Our Community” long before our vision statement was created. Just think about the thousands of lives that have been impacted since 1852 and continue to be impacted to this day. That’s remarkable and worthy of celebrating, which will take place beginning with a big “Kick-Off Celebration” on Saturday September 17. Both school and church will come together for a time of fun, food, and festivities. Now that we are returning to a more normal lifestyle, we can actually gather with people without all the restrictions, fears, and limitations. The timing couldn’t be better. With that said, we need your help to make this a memorable and exciting event for all. Both the ICA 170th Planning Committee and Stewardship Commission have been working diligently to ensure that this celebration will be a rich and rewarding experience. As I said, we need you, the congregation of Immanuel to step forward by using your gifts of service and hospitality. Look for announcements and volunteer opportunities. What a great way to live out the vision of Immanuel. This celebration provides an opening for us to show our love and support for the most significant ministry in Immanuel’s history. I encourage you to join us for a time of community building and an overall coming together to share life in the name of Jesus. I look forward to seeing you on Saturday, September 17, as we rejoice in this landmark celebration. Thank God for blessing Immanuel Christian Academy for 170 years. May He continue to bless this enduring Christian institution well into the future, guided by the Holy Spirit, all to the glory of God. In the Fellowship and Love of Christ, Pastor Steve Deombeleg