ACSI Statement Regarding the Recent Attack on U.S. Capitol
The Association of Christian Schools International joins with citizens throughout the United States and the world, in condemning the recent attack on the U.S. Capitol. We witnessed the shameful actions of an unruly mob that resulted in the tragic loss
of life, destruction of historical and revered facilities, and a major breach of the code of honor essential for a civil society. We mourn with those personally affected by this tragedy and ask the Lord to touch them and our nation with His healing hand.
We understand that political and ideological polarity also permeates the body of Christ and our Christian schools. It disrupts and threatens the unity of your student, faculty, parent, and alumni bodies. How could it not? Many school leaders are asking how to address the complexity of such strife. As a recent head of school, I sincerely understand that there is no simple answer, or quick fix, to the magnitude of this discord.
When faced with this level of conflict, both as a head of school and now as the president of ACSI, there are two assurances I will use personally, and that ACSI will use organizationally. These two assurances are God’s Word, and prayer. Please know that we are praying for you, and to the One who specializes in such convoluted matters. We are specifically praying that God would grant you discernment, and especially prudence, as you navigate these turbulent waters.
The virtue of prudence is one of the least talked about and undervalued virtues of our day. Nearly 2,000 years ago, prudence was considered one of the greatest virtues. And, 100 years ago, it was part of the moral philosophy framework of our nation. The virtue of prudence is linked to excellence in judgment, the capacity to discern, and the ability to make immediate decisions based on their long-range effects. Philosopher and theologian Thomas Aquinas defined prudence as “…Intelligence about things to be done.”
More than ever, we need prudence as we lead our schools, churches, classrooms, and families. The Apostle Paul highlights this in Philippians 1:9-11; “And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ to the glory and praise of God.”
Let us lean into these difficult days with God-given joy, hope, and confidence. As ambassadors of Christ, let us demonstrate His love, compassion, truth, and prudence. ACSI will continue to pray for you as you seek the Lord’s direction on how to lead and inspire the stakeholders the Lord has entrusted to you.
In Him,
Larry Taylor, Ph.D.
President | ACSI
We understand that political and ideological polarity also permeates the body of Christ and our Christian schools. It disrupts and threatens the unity of your student, faculty, parent, and alumni bodies. How could it not? Many school leaders are asking how to address the complexity of such strife. As a recent head of school, I sincerely understand that there is no simple answer, or quick fix, to the magnitude of this discord.
When faced with this level of conflict, both as a head of school and now as the president of ACSI, there are two assurances I will use personally, and that ACSI will use organizationally. These two assurances are God’s Word, and prayer. Please know that we are praying for you, and to the One who specializes in such convoluted matters. We are specifically praying that God would grant you discernment, and especially prudence, as you navigate these turbulent waters.
The virtue of prudence is one of the least talked about and undervalued virtues of our day. Nearly 2,000 years ago, prudence was considered one of the greatest virtues. And, 100 years ago, it was part of the moral philosophy framework of our nation. The virtue of prudence is linked to excellence in judgment, the capacity to discern, and the ability to make immediate decisions based on their long-range effects. Philosopher and theologian Thomas Aquinas defined prudence as “…Intelligence about things to be done.”
More than ever, we need prudence as we lead our schools, churches, classrooms, and families. The Apostle Paul highlights this in Philippians 1:9-11; “And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ to the glory and praise of God.”
Let us lean into these difficult days with God-given joy, hope, and confidence. As ambassadors of Christ, let us demonstrate His love, compassion, truth, and prudence. ACSI will continue to pray for you as you seek the Lord’s direction on how to lead and inspire the stakeholders the Lord has entrusted to you.
In Him,
Larry Taylor, Ph.D.
President | ACSI