1. family and parenting
2. children

T H E
I
H E A R T
O F
H O M E S C H O O L I N G
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2015 VOLUME 1 ISSUE 91
RISE UP & BUILD!
CHEC DAY AT THE CAPITOL EVENT
APRIL 17th, 2015
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SEE THE DETAILS ON PAGE
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ARTICLES INSIDE THIS ISSUE
4
The Three S’s
of Giving That
Matter
8
Run Your
Own Race
12
Harmony in
the Home
14
Why I
Homeschool
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Publishers we carry include BJU Press, Christian Liberty
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Leaf Press, and Progeny Press.
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INSIDE
CHEC Homeschool Update
Family Encouragement
4
The Three S’s of
Giving That Matter
BY STEVE CRAIG
8
10
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Volume 1, 2015
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14
22
I
Issue 91
Why I Homeschool
BY JOE HOLMAN
You’re Not Done Yet
Run Your Own Race
BY MARCIA WASHBURN
Harmony
in the Home
BY TONY PRANAITIS
BY RALPH AND CAROL SWANSON
Too Much Emphasis
BY KIRK SMITH
CHEC Events
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Rocky Mountain
Super Conference
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2014 National
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Day at the Capitol
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DIRECTOR’S DESK
THE THREE S’s
of Giving That Matter
BY STEVE CRAIG
GIVING YOURSELF
TO WHAT IS
SIGNIFICANT
Take a moment to read these three passages
all that I have commanded you.” In Daniel 12:3, it is
of Scripture – Matthew 28:19-20, Daniel 12:3,
put a little differently. Daniel speaks of those who
Matthew 10:40-42.
“turn many to righteousness.” The idea is the same.
How often do you feel like your life is dominated
I believe these passages answer the question
Daniel attaches this idea to the promise that those
by the mundane?
“How do you know if you are giving yourself toward
who turn many to righteousness will shine like the
what is truly significant for Christ’s kingdom?”
stars forever and ever. What a thought!
Most of the time, it seems like our life is devoted
The answer is when you are making and serving
You can pay a little money to have a star named after
towards staying ahead of the most basic tasks
disciples of Jesus Christ.
you. But you can’t pay money to shine like a star.
My wife and I have three very small children.
of life. Changing diapers, cleaning up disasters,
wiping runny noses, resolving conflicts,
practicing obedience, teaching our children
how to pick up after themselves, potty training,
etc., can consume our time and attention.
Sometimes we struggle with the tension between
really wanting to do something important for
Christ’s kingdom and feeling like the activity
of our lives is not exactly the kind of material
the final, summary level marching orders given by
have to turn others to righteousness.
In Matthew chapter 10:40-42 we are given the
His Father. And what were those marching orders?
promise of certain reward for those who direct
Go. Make disciples. Making disciples is at the very
even the smallest act of service toward a disciple of
heart of God’s mission for us here on earth.
Jesus. Just by giving them a cup of cold water.
That is why I love homeschooling. At its core, it is
There is special notice taken of those who care for
really about disciple making.
disciples. Not just the great ones, the prophets of
Discipling the world, starting with those right in your
Christian of the Faith.
own house. I don’t think you will find a more significant
task in Scripture than that of making disciples.
toward what is significant for Christ’s kingdom
I like Daniel 12:3 because it speaks of a critical
when much of life seems absorbed with
component of the disciple making spoken of in the
insignificance?
Great Commission, the “teaching them to observe
C H E C H O M E S C H O O L U P D AT E
No, if want to do something that amazing then you
Christ to His disciples before He left them to go to
that you would find in the biography of a great
So how do you know if you are giving yourself
4
In Matthew 28:19-20, we have The Great Commission,
I
Vo l u m e 1 , I s s u e 9 1 , 2 0 1 5
our day. Even the very least of Christ’s disciples,
even the little ones.
In John 21:17 Jesus asks Peter “Do you love Me?”
Peter answered, “Lord, You know everything; You
know that I love You.” Then Jesus said to Peter,
“Feed my sheep.”
DIRECTOR’S DESK
If you want to do something truly important for
her as she brought her gift. She was probably not
I was raised among the homeschooling crowd and
Christ, take care of Christ’s disciples, including their
the kind of woman who would stand out in a crowd,
large families were nothing unusual to me based on the
most basic needs.
especially amidst the many who were gathered there
experience of my life. I always wanted a large family
with their large and glamorous gifts.
and still desire as many children as God sees fit.
But Jesus was waiting, and watching, and He saw her.
I have to admit, however that reality struck when
Notice how each of these passages has a promise
associated with it. The promise of Christ’s continual
presence in Matthew 28:20. The promise of shining
like the stars forever in Daniel 12:3. The promise of
certain reward in Matthew 10:42.
Second, notice how Jesus saw not just the gift but
also the givers. He saw the condition of their lives.
He noticed those with great abundance. He noticed
Do you want to give your life to something that really
those with great need. He saw every circumstance
matters to God; something that has a promised
of their lives.
reward and something truly significant? Then you
give yourself to making and serving disciples. That
is giving to what is significant.
Tara and I had our first child. Carson had some health
issues that certainly added to the difficulty of caring
for him. It wasn’t too long into our parenting debut
that Tara and I looked at Carson, looked at the large
families that we knew, looked at each other and said
“What in the world? How do those families do that?”
Finally, what lesson did Jesus draw from His observations
for His disciples? Jesus taught them that the true
value of a gift is determined not by the gift alone, but
That which I had taken for granted for so many years
suddenly became very real as I began to become
aware of the effort and sacrifice involved in raising
GIVING THAT IS
SUBSTANTIAL
by the circumstances from which the gift is given.
given out of great necessity. The poor widow had
There are moments when you look at your children
Maybe you are sitting there fully convinced of the
given everything she had, all she had to live on.
and say, “It’s too big of a task. I don’t have the
significance of giving your life toward making and
What gift did Jesus value the most? He valued one
serving disciples for Jesus Christ.
So what if you feel like what you bring to God just
You doubt, however, the total value of your service
be able to give God something really substantial?
in the context of God’s great kingdom.
isn’t that much? What if you fear that you will never
Remember, Christ values high above all other gifts
just a single child.
resources. I make too many mistakes. I just don’t
have what it takes!”
Let’s see what John 6:4-13, the account of Christ’s
feeding of the five thousand, might have to instruct us.
Perhaps you see those families who, in addition to
the ones given by those who are giving everything that
I think this passage presents us with a picture of
homeschooling their children, are able to financially
they have. Those are the gifts with real substance.
what our lives are often like. We feel like we have
support missions, are heavily involved in Church
five thousand hungry mouths to feed and all we can
scrape together is five loaves of bread and a couple
You want to know not only that your resources are
GIVING THAT IS
SUFFICIENT
directed toward what is significant but that your
Many of us have goals for our lives or at least a picture
We’re more than willing to give it. After all, it is
contribution to Christ’s kingdom amounts to
in our minds of what we would like to become of the
Jesus who has asked us to feed them. We will give
something substantial.
effort of our lives. Of course, we should always be
them everything we have, right down to the last
evaluating these goals in the light of Scripture in
crumb. But it is just not going to be enough.
outreach, lead bible studies, and so on.
Do you ever struggle with regret that, when
compared to others around you, the total value of
your life for Christ’s kingdom just doesn’t seem to
amount to much?
We are all familiar with the story of the widow’s mite
told in Mark 12:41-44. Take a moment to read this
passage and notice several things with me.
First, notice that Jesus was watching. I am quite
sure that when the poor widow in this story set out
to bring her two small copper coins to the temple
that day that she never guessed that the Creator of
the universe would be waiting there and watching
of fish. How pathetic!
order to make sure that we are staying focused on
accomplishing that which is truly significant
Now suppose the disciples said to themselves,
according to God’s Word.
“Let’s see if we can make this stretch.”
But what if you have directed your life toward that
I remember growing up that our family would
which is truly significant and you have given it
everything you’ve got, but you feel like your best is
just not good enough? What if you feel like all that
you have to give is just not sufficient to accomplish
its intended purpose?
sometimes get something special to eat, maybe
a few pieces of special Christmas candy. But there
would not be enough for everyone to have one.
So my mom would get out a knife and cut it up
into pieces so that everyone could have a taste.
Let’s apply this to the raising and discipling of
our children.
(Continues on page 5)
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5
DIRECTOR’S DESK
THE THREE S’s of Giving That Matter
(Continues from page 4)
Now suppose the disciples did the same thing. They
made perfect in weakness. Therefore I will boast
Do you want to know that what you have to give is
got out their knives and tried to do their best to
all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the
truly substantial from God’s point of view? Then
make it stretch. They tried to cut up those five loaves
power of Christ may rest upon me. For the sake of
remember that Christ values high above all other gifts,
and two fish into five thousand little portions. That
Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults,
the ones given by those who are giving everything
would be ridiculous!
hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I
that they have. Those are the gifts with real substance.
They could never feed five thousand with what they
had, and neither can we!
You know the first step toward giving that is sufficient
is to accept that our very best just isn’t good enough.
We are just like the disciples with a tiny little bit of
food standing before a hungry crowd of five thousand.
But what did the disciples do? They took all they could
scrape together and they brought it to Jesus. And what did
Jesus do? He took it and blessed it and He turned those
meager provisions into superfluous abundance.
am weak, then I am strong.”
be sufficient? Give it to Jesus. He will bless it. His
enough? You take what you have and you give it to
strength will be made perfect in our weakness.
Jesus. Then He blesses it and turns it into all that it
must be, and so much more.
Only when you give what you have to Jesus will it
ever be sufficient. His strength will be made perfect
in our weakness.
CONCLUSION
Do you want to make sure you are giving yourself to
2 Corinthians 12:9-10 says, “But He said to me,
what is truly significant? Then give yourself to making
“My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is
and serving disciples, even the little ones.
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C H E C H O M E S C H O O L U P D AT E
Do you want to know that what you have to give will
So, what do you do when your best is just not good
I
Vo l u m e 1 , I s s u e 9 1 , 2 0 1 5
Steve Craig is the Executive Director for Christian
Home Educators of Colorado. He and his wife Tara
are second generation homeschoolers and have a
passion to inspire others toward biblical discipleship
in the home. Steve and Tara live in Castle Rock with
their three children, Carson, Christiana, and Angelina.
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“
“
This was it, this was both things,
the school I thought didn’t exist.
-she says of CCU, whose academic programs and faculty impressed her—
something she wouldn’t compromise on.
HSN 7x9_2011.indd 1
5/9/2011 2:19:04 PM
PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHUTTERSTOCK
FAMILY
FAMILYENCOURAGEMENT
ENCOURAGEMENT
RUN
YOUR
Own Race
BY MARCIA WASHBURN
I DON’T KNOW
The excitement of September’s new start was in the
He also gives us everything we need to serve Him
distant past and the glitter and fun of the Christmas
in this present moment. He gave Paul everything he
ABOUT YOU,
break was packed away with the lights and gift wrap.
needed to serve Him with joy while in the Philippian
Snow season dragged on and on and June seemed
jail where he wrote the above verses. Even though
BUT IT ALWAYS
to be years away. What a temptation it was at this
winter weather, sick children, and boredom can
time of year to just take it easy and coast for awhile,
sometimes make us feel like we are in a prison, we
SEEMED TO
even though I knew we would pay for it in an end-of-
can ask God to give us contented, joyful hearts.
ME THAT
year scramble to get everything done.
We can also pray that we will run our race well.
How easy it is to look around at other homeschoolers
Hebrews 12:1-2 teaches us that God has marked out
FEBRUARY
and assume that you are the only one who is tired of
a specific race for each of us. We often forget that
the day-to-day slogging along through worksheets.
every single day of our lives counts as we run the
WAS THE
It is easy to catch a case of the if-onlys. If only
race God has set before us.
LONGEST
curriculum. If only we had a better support group. If
At a track meet, each person in the race has the lines
only my husband was more supportive. If only my
for his own lane drawn out on the track. He must
MONTH OF THE
children were smart/enthusiastic/obedient/eager
stay in his own lane or he will be disqualified. If he
learners. If only the school year was over!
keeps turning to look at other runners he cannot run
SCHOOL YEAR.
I had more energy. If only we had more exciting
his own race efficiently.
We often forget that the verse that precedes “I can
do all things through Him who strengthens me” is “I
Likewise, we must guard against leaving our lane.
have learned in whatever situation I am to be content.”
1
We, too, must avoid comparing our race with
someone else’s. Our race doesn’t look like anyone
One of the toughest lessons God taught me during
else’s race. Our relationships, finances, health, and
the nineteen years we homeschooled our sons was
life message are all different from those of other
contentment. I needed to remember that God gives
families. Our race, both as an individual and as a
us everything we need for our present happiness.
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C H E C H O M E S C H O O L U P D AT E
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FAMILY ENCOURAGEMENT
Just Pedal
family, is unique to us. God designed it just for us.
We must not attempt to run someone else’s race.
It may seem that another person is running faster
or that she has an easier route. Your itinerary may
seem difficult, with hills and obstacles that others
At first I saw God as my observer, my judge, keeping track of the things I did wrong,
so as to know whether I merited heaven or hell when I die. He was out there sort of like a president.
I recognized His picture but I didn’t really know him.
don’t face. But it is your race. Don’t take shortcuts.
But later on, when I met Christ, it seemed as though life were rather like a bike ride,
but it was a tandem bike, and I noticed that Christ was in the back helping me pedal.
God designed your race for you and He will empower
you to run it.
I don’t know just when it was that He suggested we change places, but life has not been
the same since. When I had control, I knew the way. It was rather boring and predictable.
It was the shortest distance between two points.
Many years ago, someone forwarded me an essay
that I call “Just Pedal” (see sidebar). I have not been
able to learn the author’s name, but it has been a
But when He took the lead, He knew delightful long cuts up mountains and through
rocky places at break-neck speeds. It was all I could do to hang on! Even though it looked
like madness, He said, “Pedal!”
blessing to me through the years. Perhaps you will
find it helpful, too, as you face the long days of winter.
Ask God to give you the gift of contentment with the
I worried and was anxious and asked, “Where are you taking me?” He laughed and didn’t
answer, and I started to learn to trust. I forgot my boring life and entered into the adventure.
And when I’d say, “I’m scared!” he’d lean back and touch my hand.
race he has laid out for you. Don’t compare your
race with anyone else’s race. Keep your eyes on
the prize you will hear at the finish line: “Well done,
good and faithful servant.”
He took me to people with gifts that I needed, gifts of healing, acceptance, and joy.
They gave me gifts to take on my journey, my Lord’s and mine. And we were off again. He said,
“Give the gifts away; they’re extra baggage, too much weight.” So I did, to the people we met,
and I found that in giving I received, and still our burden was light.
©2014 by Marcia K. Washburn who enjoys giving
practical encouragement for moms through her
speaking and writing ministry. View her resources
at www.marciawashburn.com, “like” her at www.
facebook.com/MarciaKWashburn, or contact her at
[email protected].
1
I did not trust Him, at first, in control of my life, I thought He’d wreck it; but he knows
bike secrets, knows how to make it bend to make sharp corners, knows how to jump to
clear high rocks, knows how to fly to shorten scary passages.
Philippians 4:11b-13 (ESV)
And I am learning to shut up and pedal in the strangest places, and beginning to enjoy
the view, and the cool breeze on my face, with my delightful constant companion,
JESUS CHRIST.
And when I’m sure I just can’t do anymore, He just smiles and says, “Pedal.”
~ Author unknown
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PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHUTTERSTOCK
FAMILY ENCOURAGEMENT
HARMONY
IN THE HOME
(and church, and school)
BY TONY PRANAITIS
FOR 15 YEARS SUMMER HARMONY CAMP HAS GIVEN
STUDENTS WHO LOVE TO SING THE OPPORTUNITY
TO DEVELOP HARMONIZING SKILLS THROUGH THE
TRAINING OFFERED BY THE BARBERSHOP HARMONY
SOCIETY AND SWEET ADELINES INTERNATIONAL.
During that time several homeschool students (and
Harmony Camp and have fallen in love with the
some private / religious school students) have
challenge and the beauty of the barbershop style.
discovered this opportunity, but none have become
They are now on staff at the Camp, they have a
as involved and taken harmonizing in the home to
homeschool family quartet which regularly enters
the level that the Michel family has.
the High School Quartet Contest held in Febru-
Jarrod and Charlene Michel homeschool and sing
with their 8 children (and also play a wide variety
of musical instruments). They discovered Summer
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C H E C H O M E S C H O O L U P D AT E
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ary (earning a half-tuition scholarship to Summer
Harmony Camp by competing), and mom and dad
are quartet singing too!
FAMILY ENCOURAGEMENT
Due to some exciting developments in the past
in one of those chapters, and immediately became
We then ask these students to become ambassadors
year, a new Camp will be launched in 2015 which
involved in the “youth outreach” effort (wishing I
in their churches and communities to perform what
made it strategically advantageous to re-design our
had learned this when I was younger).
they learn for the edification of congregations and
Camp in Estes Park (at the YMCA Camp) to shift
the repertoire toward songs of faith and inspiration,
and songs of American heritage and patriotism,
which will have greater appeal (and long-term use)
by the homeschool, private, and church school
communities. We were also able to secure Dr. Frank
Eychaner (music professor at the University of
Texas, previously men’s choral director at Colorado
Christian University) as our primary clinician. Dr.
Eychaner has been singing barbershop for many
years and considers it an ideal way to learn and an
ultimate way to perform exquisite harmony. There
are a multitude of arrangements in the barbershop
catalog that we will draw from and direct singers
toward who want to continue to pursue 4-part harmony.
Harmonizing is not easy. If it was, everybody would
be doing it. On the other hand, it’s not impossible.
With the declining support for the arts in our public
schools (another story), opportunities like this are
audiences, and to encourage participation by those
who are willing to sing.
becoming more vital for students who wish to learn
Music speaks when words are inadequate. It chang-
to harmonize. The ACDA (American Choral Direc-
es the heart, and singing is the ultimate organic
tor’s Association) is acutely aware of the decline in
expression of the heart where the body of the singer
choral participation, particularly among boys, and is
IS the instrument. Harmonizing—perfect alignment
partnering with the Barbershop Harmony Society to
of sound by multiple voices creating chords with
engage students (especially young men) in singing.
exact intervals—has been found in all cultures,
Summer Harmony Camp is July 17-19 at the Estes
Park YMCA (see our ad elsewhere in this magazine).
The first half of 2015 we will be getting the word out
about the new direction of our Camp, and we invite
homeschool students who have good music reading
and vocal intonation skills to come and develop
all faiths, throughout all of history...vanishing only
recently. Let’s keep vocal harmony alive for the next
generation (and many more).
Tony Pranaitis — my wife and I homeschooled our
3 children, and they are now homeschooling our 8
grandchildren.
their ability to harmonize with 100 other students of
similar interest.
Years ago church hymnals were printed with “shape
notes” which enabled even the “musically illiterate”
to easily learn to harmonize. (Shape notes had
different shape note heads, which symbolized the
tones of the musical scale: do, re, mi, fa, sol, la, ti, do.)
Today, music in worship is a highly controversial
subject, but no matter your opinion, it is plainly and
painfully obvious that a capella harmony singing is
on the decline in American churches. This, despite
the fact, that people love to hear it performed.
There is a secular resurgence of a capella singing
(i.e. “The Sing Off” etc.) and we would like to see a
similar resurgence in churches, in communities, and
of course in homes and families.
For over 75 years the “Society for the Preservation
and Encouragement of Barber Shop Quartet Singing
in America” (SPEBSQSA – now known simply as
the “Barbershop Harmony Society”) has offered to
men of all ages and abilities (and for almost as long,
Sweet Adelines International has offered to women)
the opportunity to learn to harmonize through
chapters all across North America, and now in many
nations around the globe. I learned to harmonize
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PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHUTTERSTOCK
FAMILY ENCOURAGEMENT
WHY I
Homeschool
BY JOE HOLMAN
ONE TOOL THAT
CAN HELP THE
PROCESS OF
HOMESCHOOLING
IS A MISSION
STATEMENT.
It can alleviate frustration and
provide direction. Families can
use it to focus on their true desires.
A family mission statement makes it easier to
create plans that will keep your family moving in
the right direction. These goals and statements
will be an encouragement to you in times of
despair or burnout, and a light to guide you
through the choices you encounter.
Below is what a mission statement for
homeschooling might look like. I encourage
you to use it as an example, then form your own
statement reflecting the uniqueness of your
family as God created it to be.
WHY I
HOMESCHOOL
1. T he Bible teaches it is my responsibility to
teach my children the things that they need
in order to know, honor and love Jesus Christ.
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C H E C H O M E S C H O O L U P D AT E
2. It is most important that my children possess a
Christ-like character and Godly wisdom. These
character traits and life application skills are best
taught by parents through example and doctrine.
MY HOMESCHOOLING
GOALS
3. M
y time with my children as their chief influence
is short. The best way to redeem this time together
is to intentionally invest my life into theirs;
homeschooling allows me to do this.
1. Have a lifelong relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ.
4. I am charged by God to protect my children from
the influences of sin until they are fully equipped
spiritually and intellectually to overcome the
temptations they will face in the world.
5. My children must have a coherent and complete
Biblical Worldview if they are going to make the
right choices in life and eternity.
6. H
omeschooling allows me to formulate a personalized curriculum around the uniqueness of
each child so they can be taught what they need
to know in the manner of their own individual
learning style, and to encourage a lifelong habit
of learning. We can change their curriculum as
needed as we encounter life’s challenges without
my children suffering academically.
7. Homeschooling builds a strong family with
common values and goals.
8. I can help my children discover who God made
them to be, and then help them accomplish their
purpose in life by giving them the skills they will
need to succeed.
9. Individual tutoring has historically proven to be
the best method of instruction.
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Spiritual Goals — I Want Each Child To:
2. B e committed to the study and devotion of God.
This enables them to translate those doctrines
into their daily lives.
3. H
ave a cohesive and complete Biblical Worldview
that they depend upon to make their choices in life.
4. Discover God’s unique plan for their lives by
living the life that He has called them to live.
Individual Goals — I Want Each Child To:
1. B e men (or women) of Christ-like character
and integrity.
2. Have total confidence in the fact that God loves them,
and because of that, they can live courageously
for Him.
3. Have Godly wisdom in their decisions.
4. Spend their entire lives as students, studying and
growing until Christ returns or takes them home
to be with Him.
5. Know how to recognize and defeat the schemes of
the devil through submitting to God, resisting the
enemy, and renewing their minds.
6. B e hard workers, doing whatever they do to the
best of their ability and the glory of God.
7. Manifest the love of God to others and help them
know God better.
FAMILY ENCOURAGEMENT
8. Understand the relationships, roles and
responsibilities in which God places them.
Skill Goals — I Want Each Child To:
WANTED: PERFORMERS
FOR STATE CONFERENCE
1. Manage their time in such a way that they determine
how they will invest their lives.
2. Live debt-free, being wise stewards of the financial
resources God has given them.
3. L ive their lives enjoying the moment, but thinking
long-term.
4. Think logically and rationally, keeping their emotions
subject to the truth of God and the needs of others.
5. Listen and communicate effectively and
coherently to individuals or to groups.
We all enjoy hearing the talented young performers at the state conference in June each year.
Perhaps you have wondered how these young people were selected. Each year we invite interested families to submit an audition packet to the General Sessions coordinator by April 30.
6. Be technologically up-to-date.
7. Be equipped to resolve conflict to the honor of Christ.
8. Be able to analyze, research and solve problems.
9. T hink quickly on their feet and act immediately
when needed.
If you know talented youngsters or families who could bless us at the conference, please urge
them to apply, or let us know and we will contact them.
For further information and an audition form, see www.chec.org. For remaining
questions, please call Marcia Washburn at 970-842-4776 (mornings only) or
e-mail her at [email protected].
10. K now Christian Apologetics to explain and
defend their faith in Christ.
11. E fficiently and effectively manage a household.
ACADEMIC GOALS
1. U
nderstand the linear nature of history and our
place in it, knowing key events and individuals
and how they shaped their time and those that
followed them.
2. T o know how to think critically and logically.
3. Math skills through calculus and advanced geometry.
4. To be able to read anything they pick up.
5. To read the great books of humanity. To average
reading two books a week.
Joe and his wife, Denise, served CHEC for a number
of years. Joe was a CHEC Board member from 1997
to 2000, when their family moved to Purcellville, VA.
The Holman family is now in Bolivia on the mission
field. Their family website is http://joe-holman.
blogspot.com/.
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PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHUTTERSTOCK
FAMILY ENCOURAGEMENT
YOU’RE NOT
Done Yet!
BY RALPH AND CAROL SWANSON
“THOSE THAT BE PLANTED IN THE HOUSE OF THE LORD
SHALL FLOURISH IN THE COURTS OF OUR GOD. THEY
SHALL BRING FORTH FRUIT IN OLD AGE.”
— Psalm 92:13-14.
When our last child was graduated from high
By keeping and restoring the furniture we needed
used by God to help many homeschooling families
school and our 22 years of homeschooling
for a fair-sized family, we’ve been able to entertain
serve the Lord. One of the reasons Carol gives piano
ended, we were ready to catch our breath. But
and encourage many homeschooling families who
lessons is to prepare young people to serve properly
God does not “retire” his sons and daughters
come for vacations or visits. One family came out of
at the instrument in their churches. In recent years
into rocking chairs. He has plenty of work
necessity! They were evacuated from their home due
playing hymns accurately has not been a priority.
assignments to keep us busy in His service
to a very large forest fire. They stayed with us for a
Piano students need training to play the most
right down to old age. Often His assignments
month, during which time we had many opportunities
difficult hymns accurately and then to improvise
are one on the heels of the other, but not
to share what God had taught us.
and transpose, within limits of reverence. Students
beyond what we are equipped to do.
trained like this have gone out to accompany worship
services, VBS, choirs and wherever they are needed.
Our service may not be as vigorous or visible
and we had hours of edifying fellowship. The father,
as in the days of our youth; but it is serenely
a medical doctor, was in medical school when we
fulfilling. The most joyous by far is our increased
were missionaries in Japan. He read Ralph’s book,
time for intercessory prayer. God brings prayer
The Bible and Modern Science which taught him
requests enough to fill two hours every morning!
the truth of creation and fallacy of evolution. This
There are needs all around us where God would
The more we pray the farther our vision of
man embraced God’s Word as literal, infallible
have us turn our hand and serve Him, bringing forth
need extends. The children we homeschooled
truth, and the Biblical theology of God’s absolute
fruit right down to our old age.
are now homeschooling our grandchildren.
sovereignty. This is the foundation on which he has
We cover them daily, each by name, during
been homeschooling his children. It is a delightful
this prayer time. After all, we “walked in their
privilege to encourage and strengthen families
shoes” and are very familiar with their needs.
like this.
Also, the blessing of email has given us
instant updates for prayer requests.
14
Another homeschooling family came from Japan
C H E C H O M E S C H O O L U P D AT E
Another assignment God gives is to pass on our
skills by teaching others. Piano lessons have been
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They are able to skillfully play any music set before
them. It’s a ministry high school students can and
do fulfill.
Ralph and Carol Swanson homeschooled their
6 children in the 1960s and 1970s, and are still
active after all these years. Generations with Vision’s
Kevin Swanson is blessed to be a part of this
great heritage.
TOOL S
IN
HIS
HANDS
Rocky Mountain
Super Conference on the Family
I
I
I
I
VISION HOME DISCIPLESHIP WORLDVIEW ENCOURAGEMENT RELATIONSHIPS
Presented by Christian Home Educators of Colorado
JUNE 18-20, 2015
DENVER MART
E XCLU S IV E LI M ITE D D I SCO U NT !
Watch your email inbox the week of Feb. 23rd
for an Exclusive Offer!
Not Getting CHEC eBlasts? Sign up today at CHEC.org so you don’t miss this!
SUPER-SIZED CONFERENCE. SUPER-SIZED FAMILY.
DON’T MISS THIS YEAR – WE’VE GOT THE DUGGARS!
Registration Opens March 2nd, 2015
TOLL-FREE 877.842.CHEC
I
CHEC.org
I DENVER METRO 720.842.4852
S U P E R CO N F E R E N CE
S U P E R VALU E
REGISTER EARLY &
+ PLUS, THE DUGGARS!
SAVE 10%!
89
$
$
99
FULL CONFERENCE: Includes admission to all GENERAL SESSIONS,
WORKSHOPS, and the EXHIBIT HALL with more than 200 booths for you and your
spouse. Bring the whole family for just $119!*
FIRST TIME ATTENDEES: Come at a special low price! Your pass
69 gets
you and your spouse admission to the entire conference, including
$
$
79
39
$
$
EXHIBIT HALL: Your registration includes admission for you and your spouse
to the VENDOR EXHIBIT HALL. Bring the whole family for just $59.***
AN EVENING WITH
B R I N G TH E
WH O LE
FA M I LY !
Children of any
age living in
your home are
welcome and you
can bring them all
for one low price.
49
GENERAL SESSIONS, WORKSHOPS, and more than 200 EXHIBIT HALL booths!
Bring the whole family for just $99!**
THE DUGGARS
This year, your FULL CONFERENCE PASS gets you free admission
to AN EVENING WITH THE DUGGARS! Join us Friday, June 19th,
for a night with Jim Bob, Michelle, and their children.
Seating is limited and will be on a first-come, first served basis. Don’t miss this opportunity!
*
**
Price is for online early registrations only. After 6/15/2014, full conference registration will be $99/$129.
Price is for those who have never attended the Rocky Mountain Super Conference on the Family.
Online early registration only. After 6/15/2013, admission will be $79/$109 .
*** Price is for online early registrations only. After 6/15/2014, Exhibit Hall only registration will be $49/$69.
CONFERENCE SCHEDULE
REGISTRATION
OPENS AT
7:30AM
EVERYDAY
SPECIAL EXHIBIT
HALL HOURS
ON THURSDAY
4:30PM – 8:00PM
EXHIBIT HALL
HOURS ON FRIDAY
10:00AM – 6:30PM
SATURDAY
10:00AM – 5:30PM
Christian Home Educators of Colorado
CHEC.org
I
720.842.4852
I
TOLL-FREE 877.842.CHEC (2432)
Christian Home Educators of Colorado (CHEC) is committed to honoring Jesus Christ by encouraging parents to educate their
children through home discipleship. We will do this by providing leadership, resources, and information that advances
God-centered relationships, while respecting the Biblical jurisdictional boundaries of family, church, and state.
TOO L S I N H IS HAN DS
“For who is greater, he who sits at the table, or he who serves? Is it not he who sits at the table? Yet I am among you as the
One who serves (Lk. 22:27).” Jesus set aside His kingly glory to come and to SERVE hell-deserving sinners. He showed us
the perfect example of how to LEAD by serving others. This year’s conference will explore ways to build stronger families,
churches, and governments through SERVANT LEADERSHIP.
SPEAKERS
PETER HECK
Author and Host of The
Peter Heck Show
DR. MARSHALL
FOSTER
Founder of World
History Institute
DR. JASON LISLE
Director of Research
Institute for Creation
Research
DR. R.C.
SPROUL, JR.
Founder of
Highlands Ministries
TODD FRIEL
Host of Wretched
Radio, Author and
Speaker
JIM BOB & MICHELLE
DUGGAR
Of 19 Kids and Counting
OTH E R S P E A K E R S I N C LU D E :
RICK
STEVENS
RENEE
ELLISON
DR. S.M.
DAVIS
SHELLEY
NOONAN
KEVIN
SWANSON
ANDIE
DAVIDSON
BARB
WEST
USE D CU RRICU LU M SALE
EXHIBIT HALL
Registration for this year’s conference will also admit you to the Used
Filled with over 200 booths, our Exhibit Hall attracts vendors from across the
Curriculum Sale. This is a great opportunity to shop for used materials
nation. A wide variety of the latest in educational materials will be available.
at discounted prices and to sell items you no longer need. Go to the conference
Vendors will offer books and materials for specific subjects, traditional textbooks,
info pages at chec.org to find details and register used curriculum.
unit study materials, full-scale curricula, fun extras (educational games, videos,
art supplies, music programs, etc.), life skills, family economics, and more!
YOU NG E NTRE PRE NEU RS
If you are a homeschooled student, ages 13 to 21, and have your own business,
there’s a place for you in our Exhibit Hall! This area held more than three dozen
Young Entrepreneur vendors last year and proved to be very popular with
attending families. Send inquiries to [email protected].
Vendor Demos are a great way to learn more about some of our vendors and
their products; see program for scheduled demonstrations.
REGISTER AND
PAY ONLINE AT
ADVANCE
REGISTRATION
IS ONLY
89 $99
$
REGISTRATION
AT THE DOOR
CHEC.org
Please follow the online
instructions to register.
WHY
WAIT?
ONLINE REGISTRATION OPENS MARCH 2ND, 2015
If you are unable to register online please contact the CHEC Office at 720.842.4852 or Toll-Free 877.842.CHEC (2432)
GENERAL INFORMATION
GET ALL THE DETAILS ON
CHEC.org
CHEC IS A MINISTRY TO
FAMILIES
DISCOUNTED ADMISSION
PROGRAMS
STROLLERS AND
ROLLING DEVICES
If you support our vision of providing leadership,
information and resources with a Christ-centered focus
for those involved in home education, we ask that you
prayerfully consider partnering with us in any of the
following ways:
FIRST TIME ATTENDEES
If you are attending the Conference for
the first time, please enjoy a discounted
registration fee.
These will be allowed in the exhibit hall only.
• DONATION – Those who give $50, or more
per year, will receive a 15% discount on the upcoming
conference, $20 discount on membership with
HSLDA, and 10% discount on CHEC products.
• ADDITIONAL LEVELS OF GIVING –
There are added benefits for higher levels of annual
giving. Details at chec.org/donate.
• SCHOLARSHIP FOR CONFERENCE
ATTENDEES – CHEC recognizes that not every
family can absorb the cost of a conference registration
in their budget so we provide a special scholarship
fund to which others may contribute.
PASTORS
Pastors who are not currently home educating
their own children may attend the conference
at a discounted rate. Please request this
discount by submitting your request on
church letterhead.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON
THESE OFFERS, VISIT CHEC.ORG
PRESENTED BY:
CHILDREN OF
ALL AGES WELCOME
All children regardless of age are welcome to
attend the Conference. You may purchase a
FULL CONFERENCE or EXHIBIT HALL ONLY
FAMILY ADMISSION PASS with the purchase
of an adult registration.
Full registration includes admission
to the entire conference: Thursday’s
Pre-conference as well as Friday and
Saturday’s Conference, including the
Exhibit Hall, vendor demonstrations,
General Sessions and the Used
Curriculum Sale.
HOMESCHOOL
DAY AT THE CAPITOL PRESENTS:
RISE UP
& BUILD
“
Then I told them of the hand of my God which was good upon me...
And they said, Let us rise up and build. So they strengthened
”
their hands for this good work.
NEHEMIAH 2:18
APRIL 17, 2015
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I
Liberty Celebration
Fife and Drum March
Rally on the West Steps
Citizen Lobbyist Program
Rotunda Displays
And More!
I
I
VISIT CHEC.org FOR MORE DETAILS!
SPONSORED BY:
RISE UP
& BUILD
Join us April 17, 2015, to ask God to strengthen our hands.
When God’s people returned from exile, Nehemiah led them in the rebuilding of
Jerusalem’s walls. He also led the people in rebuilding their spiritual foundations
to the worship of the one true God. Rubble turned into solid walls of strength
around the city. Idols turned into rubble outside the city walls. Revival was so
thorough and so sincere that the Jews did not return to idol worship during the
400 years before Christ. How wonderful that when the Messiah came, there was
a spiritual treasure-house of godly people like Joseph and Mary, Anna, Simeon,
and John the Baptist to welcome Him.
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
Let us, like Nehemiah, rise up and build the spiritual architecture that welcomes
the one true God and blesses our nation.
• The Liberty Celebration—including music from the talented voices of the Bold
Reflection choral group, fun dramatic presentations, and an inspiring message.
• The Fife and Drum Corps to march us, colonial style, around the Capitol.
• The Noon Rally, an invaluable opportunity to show our elected officials that we
care about our liberty, as well as a chance to hear more inspiring messages
and music.
• The Future Statesman Study Guide is a booklet specially designed
with fresh content each year to enhance your children’s experience of
Homeschool Day at the Capitol. Order copies through CHEC.org.
Your visit to the Capitol is a great opportunity to arrange a meeting with your
senator or representative! Get in touch with them by visiting www.Leg.State.
Co.Us and selecting “House” or “Senate” under contact information.
For more details
& to register, visit
CHEC.org
SPONSORED BY:
8:45am
State House Gallery: Introduction
of Homeschool Families
9:00am
Doors open at Pillar of Fire Church,
1340 Sherman
(1/2 block south of Capitol)
9:30-11:15am
Liberty Celebration (Pillar of Fire Church)
11:15-12:00pm
Lunch (Chick-fil-A lunches- $7.00 ea)
12:00-12:15pm
March Around the Capitol
12:15pm
Noon Rally (West steps of the Capitol)
1:30-2:45pm
Citizen Lobbyist Workshop (at the Capitol)
REGISTER ONLINE
AT CHEC.org
Or by calling CHEC at 720-842-4852 or
Toll-Free 877-842-CHEC(2432)
When you register you can also purchase
Future Statesman study guides, US Constitution
booklets, and lunches for your family.
“We have staked the future of all of our
political institutions upon the capacity
of each and all of us to govern ourselves
according to the Ten Commandments of God.”
– JAMES MADISON, “FATHER OF OUR CONSTITUTION”
Are you weary of your labors? Are you heavy laden? Do you long for rest?
The Lord Jesus Christ said:
“Come to Me, all you who labor
and are heavy laden, and I will
give you rest.”
Matt 11:28
Service Times:
Worship: 10:30 am
Fellowship Meal: 12:30 pm
Meeting at: Clear Sky Elementary School, 1470 Clear Sky Way, Castle Rock, CO 80109
You are invited to join us for weekly worship of the triune God at Emmanuel OPC in Castle Rock, CO! Emmanuel
is a new church plant of Reformation Church (which moved to Elizabeth). We are an evangelical, reformed
& Presbyterian work of the Orthodox Presbyterian Church (opc.org). Our church officers include elders Mike
Chapa & Jim Mill and deacons Nathan Seldomridge & Todd Strawser. For more information, go to emmanuelopc.com
PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHUTTERSTOCK
FAMILY ENCOURAGEMENT
TOO MUCH
Emphasis
BY KIRK SMITH
HAVE YOU EVER HAD THIS ACCUSATION LEVELED AGAINST YOU:
“YOU HOMESCHOOLERS EMPHASIZE THE FAMILY WAY TOO MUCH!”
A Biblical non-contexualist might add, “If
when I say that five years later he was divorced.
He must manage his own household well, with
anyone comes to me and does not hate his own
Biblically speaking, his ministry was at best
all dignity keeping his children submissive,
father and mother and wife and children and
compromised and, at worst, finished.
for if someone does not know how to manage
brothers and sisters, yes, and even his own
life, he cannot be my disciple.” (Luke 14:26)
Funny how the focus is always on the family
part of this verse but never on hating self! In
actuality, this was not a comment against the
family or against a person appreciating the fact
that he is fearfully and wonderfully made, but
instead it is a priority check of our commitment
and loyalty to Christ. We must interpret scripture
by scripture and surely the rest of scripture
puts this verse in proper context.
At 25 years of age, I remember going through
a fairly exhaustive discipleship program
written by a then well-known preacher. He too
emphasized that Christians put far too much
emphasis on the family. He challenged his
There are many thoughts that flow through
Christendom that sound spiritual but, in fact, are
his own household, how will he care for
God’s church?—1 Timothy 3:4,5 (ESV)
not biblical. While the scriptures are clear that
If a man’s house—marriage and children—are not
Christ is coming back for the church and the family
in order, he is disqualified to lead in the church.
will cease to exist—as we know it—in eternity, it
Period. Do you realize if this verse were consistently
doesn’t diminish its importance in this life.
applied in the evangelical community today, hundreds,
Why did God call Abraham? For one reason,
God knew Abraham would disciple his family:
For I know him, that he will command his
children and his household after him, and
they shall keep the way of the Lord, to do
justice and judgment; that the Lord may
bring upon Abraham that which he hath
spoken of him. —Gen. 18:19 (KJV)
readers to get their priorities straight with the
This is very similar to the requirement for a man
underlying assumption that ministry trumped
to hold the office of elder or deacon in the church:
family life. I guess I wouldn’t surprise you
if not thousands, of pastors would be out of a job.
In some churches, there would be no elders or deacons
left in lieu of the fact their children are imbibing in
all sorts of unbiblical behavior, yet, people would
still say that we put too much emphasis on the family!
God did not send Christ to live with a highly trained
Rabbi. Neither did He send Him to the state in order
to receive exceptional training. Instead, He ordained
Him to be born to an unknown maiden, who was
betrothed to an equally unknown man. God put
Christ in an ordinary family to be raised. I ask again,
“Do we put too much emphasis on the family,
especially in this day and age?” I say we don’t put
enough emphasis on it.
22
C H E C H O M E S C H O O L U P D AT E
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FAMILY ENCOURAGEMENT
Finally, the barometric pressure of our wisdom is
I say this? I can manipulate or guilt or intimidate my
I know of many Christians who have thought that if
defined by how those we come in consistent contact
children into a certain appearance of compliance.
they give everything to Christ, He would take care
conduct themselves:
People in the church do this all the time. I believe,
of their families. Sounds admirable. Even spiritual.
however, the purest reflection of my wisdom will be
The only problem, it isn’t biblical. The result of
seen in my grandchildren. Will they embrace my
this flawed theology has devastated many a man’s
values and then pass them on or will they chuck
spiritual legacy. What a shame!
But wisdom is justified by her children.”—
Matt. 11:19 (NKJV)
The context here is not our physical children per se;
it refers more to the backwash of our lives; those
we spend time with. Shouldn’t this include our own
children? Who else should we influence more than
these? I realize that each of our children must give
their own account for their relationship with Christ;
however, we fathers will give an account of our
stewardship in that process. In fact, it’s my personal
conviction that this verse not only refers to my
them and substitute them with something else?
Remember there is a reason why family life should
Obviously, this is a tall order. So tall, in fact, it is
receive such a wonderful emphasis: God made it
only possible through the grace of Christ being
that way!
active in our lives. This thought alone causes me to
Kirk Smith is the Executive Director for ICHE.
He and his wife, Joely have discipled and
homeschooled their 11 children for over 20 years..
He regularly blogs at http://buildingrstalls.com/.
really bear the weight of what I am to be about with
my life. If I gain all of Christendom, and lose the
hearts and souls of my children or grandchildren,
what does it profit?
children but especially to my grandchildren. Why do
ONLINE
RESOURCE
CENTER
Need new ideas?
Ready for the next step?
Looking for family-friendly fun?
VISIT TODAY!
CHEC Family
CHEC.org/resource-center
&Prep
Resources
Curriculum Suppliers I Music Programs I Books
Testing and Test
I Tutoring
Sports Programs
By Christian Home Educators of Colorado
Services I and MORE!
I Art, Ballet, & Theater I Support Groups I Professional
Vo l u m e 1 , I s s u e 9 1 , 2 0 1 5
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C H E C H O M E S C H O O L U P D AT E
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RESOURCES FOR YOUR FAMILY AND BUSINESS
Our mission is to help families and individuals with practical application in
Apprenticeship, Mentorship and Entrepreneurship as you establish, integrate and operate
your family businesses to the glory of God.
See all the resources we offer at our recently updated website to help you grow your vision and passions.
Including new products, seminars and conference events in 2015.
www.AMEprogram.com
A part of Christian Home Educators of Colorado
IS YOUR FAMILY
SET FOR THE REST OF
THE SCHOOL YEAR?
CHEC
Independent School
Independent School applications can be filled out quickly
and easily from your home computer!*
Visit chec.org and click on the
Independent School button.
Enrollment for the 2014/2015 year
will close on May 31, 2015
REGISTER
ONLINE
TODAY!
*Paper applications will still be handled. Contact the CHEC office at 720-842-4852 if you need this service.
Keep Up-to-Date
on the Homeschool
Community Resources
VISIT TODAY:
CHEC.org
CHEC EVENTS
2014
National Bible Bee
BY CINDY PUHEK
MY FAMILY RECENTLY COMPLETED THE 4,000 MILE
ROUNDTRIP DRIVE FROM COLORADO SPRINGS TO ORLANDO.
About 68-hours of travel time was required with
the expectations for Nationals is much higher. Over
trains kids how to inductively study the Bible. Over
the eight of us crammed into our 8-passenger
the last two years, my oldest has memorized more
the years, my older children have mastered this
minivan which has been affectionately christened
than 1300 verses preparing for Nationals. Danika
method and can now explore any book of the Bible
“The Sardine Express.” It was not the ultimate
says, “I never would have attempted something like
on their own. The inductive method starts with an
Disney World vacation that caused our normally
memorizing hundreds of verses in a few short weeks
overview of a book of the Bible and then looks at
sane family to make a rather insane trip to
without the Bible Bee challenging me. I’m so grateful
each passage in more detail like finding the Greek
the east coast. We joyfully made the arduous
for the Bible Bee showing me what a frail human
and Hebrew key words and cross references. “The
expedition in order to participate in the 2014
brain is capable of.”
inductive study method has been so rich and has
National Bible Bee.
helped me drink deeply from the well of Scripture,”
states Danika, “It is amazing being able to look
My family has been involved with the Bible Bee
verses in preparation for Nationals and accomplished
since it began in 2009. We thought the contest
much more than Mom and Dad ever realized they
was a wonderful way to encourage Scripture
could. We rejoice that our children have so much
memorization and Bible knowledge. Every summer,
truth stored in their hearts because of the Bible Bee.
But by far my favorite aspects of the National Bible
the Bible Bee chooses a book of the Bible to
All this memorizing has instilled in the kids a love of
Bee are the camaraderie between the contestants and
study in depth and chooses 24 Scripture
memorizing that I think will go far beyond the Bible Bee.
the way God is glorified through the public declaration
passages (typically about 60 verses) to memorize
Danika selected and began memorizing new passages
of His Word. “Everyone cheers each other on. It
over the course of 12 weeks. At the end of
of Scripture as soon as we returned from Orlando.
doesn’t feel like we’re competing against each other.
the summer everyone takes a test and the
contestants across the nation that score in the
top 120 in each age category (primary 7-10 yrs,
junior 11-14 yrs, and senior 15-18 yrs) are
invited to compete at the National Bible Bee.
There is over $350,000 in prize money awarded
to the top finishers at the National Bible Bee.
26
Hudson and Sonja also memorized hundreds of
Second, we’ve learned that memorizing Scripture
helps the kids in all areas of study. Danika has
decided that after memorizing so many verses,
preparing for a biology exam seems like, “preschool
up and understand word origins like a seminary
graduate.”
I love getting to know so many like-minded families,”
says Sonja. Listening to the young people proclaim
God’s Word during the semifinals and finals at
Nationals is a very moving, glorious experience.
work.” On the other hand, Sonja has always had
We hope your family will consider participating in
difficulty in school. “I’m proof you don’t have to be
the 2015 Bible Bee and spend the summer studying
a ’memorizing genius’ to compete in the Bible Bee,”
and memorizing God’s Word. Registration opens in
This year three of my children, 15-year old
Sonja says. Even though memorizing has always
April. Memorizing God’s Word brings with it its own
Danika, 13-year old Sonja, and 9-year old
been a challenge to Sonja, her determination to
reward, so whether your children end up qualifying
Hudson, qualified for Nationals which was held
memorize God’s Word for the local and National
for Nationals or not, investing in the Bible Bee will
in Orlando, Florida. And even though we did
Bible Bees has had a noticeable positive impact on
bring eternal dividends.
not win any of that prize money, we have had
her scholastic performance. For example, there was
numerous benefits from our involvement with
a time she could barely pass a spelling test, and now
the Bible Bee.
she consistently aces them.
First, all of my children have memorized HUGE
Third, the Bible Bee has trained all of the kids
amounts of Scripture. While the local contest
how to study the Bible. The Bible Bee produces a
only requires contestants memorize 60 verses,
Sword Study every summer for the local Bee that
C H E C H O M E S C H O O L U P D AT E
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Vo l u m e 1 , I s s u e 9 1 , 2 0 1 5
Peter and Cindy Puhek reside in Colorado Springs
and keep busy homeschooling their six children
who range in age from toddler to high schooler.
For more information about the Bible Bee, contact
Dale or Lisa Johnson at [email protected] or
Cindy at [email protected].
5
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CHEC BOARD OF TRUSTEES:
The Word
became flesh
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and dwelt
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HOMESCHOOL
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Homosexuality is Good.
Matthew Vines, God & The Gay Christian, 2014
Homosexuality is Sinful.
Justin Martyr
Clement
Cyprian
Augustine
John Chrysostom
Council of Elvira
Council of Ancyra
Basil
Hincmar
Ambrose
Gregory the Great
Isidore
Egbert
Peter Damian
Martin Luther
John Calvin
Menno Simons
John Cotton
John Wesley
Matthew Henry
So...are you still part of this church?
KEEPthe FAITH SERIES
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