I shared on my blog last week about visiting York Elementary School's principal. Ms. Harris spoke to me about "wrap-around" services to help kids learn. "Wrap-around" is a new way to think about doing what is necessary so that a child can grow and be their best. I love the imagery of arm wrapping around a child...as a philosophy for how they grow. Ultimately schools exist so that kids can be their best selves far above their future ability to hold a job and contribute to the nation's workforce. Those of you in the education sector know the logistical endeavor this wrap around ethic entails. Whereas my school growing up had extra pencils and the occasional extra Trapper Keeper, today's schools are providing shoes, groceries, housing assistance and a whole bunch more. It is an endeavor based on what we know is required for a child to learn and become their best. But it requires an impressive effort. And I worry that society as a whole has thrust too much expectation on one institution.

To understand this better, the educational philosophy is based on "Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs". A person's best self (their self-actualization) emerges when their basic Physiological and Safety needs are met and when their needs for Love, Belonging and Respect are met. Some of these can appear to be 'social' needs: housing, clothing, etc. Other needs seem are 'spiritual': self-confidence, love, peace, belonging. Despite what has happened officially with prayer in schools, schools remain the leading place where young people's spiritual needs are met.

Remember on Easter morning when Mary Magdalene thought Jesus was actually the gardener? Remember that afternoon Cleopas and his buddy were on the road to Emmaus and didn't recognize it when Jesus walked with them? Turns out God will go where God wants to go.

I wonder if we as a church could pick one of these Maslow's needs and just own that need for one of our local schools. What if all area church's "owned" a Maslow's need for their local school? Our need for purpose and direction would probably take care of itself. If we are claiming to be in ministry with the kids of Project Transformation, then being part of the "wrap-around" service their school provides may be part of our particular calling. And aren't we good at hugs?

- Pastor Christopher

On Wednesday, The  Dept. of Corrections Ombuds bill ( HB 1889) is one of FAN's leading bills, and will establish an Ombuds office for those serving time in our state prison system and members of their families. It passed 48-0 out of the Senate after seven amendments were defeated on the floor. Advocates have been fighting for this bill for 10 sessions!