‘Vetamorphus’ update – expanding into Geelong Schools in 2009.
August 7th, 2008A few months ago I wrote an article in the Covenant Newsletter introducing a new course that we are trialling this year called ‘Vetamorphus’. We have seven of our year 12 students doing the VET course as a Year 12 subject, which contributes towards their ENTER scores. ‘Vetamorphus’ has been such a huge success that we are now inviting Christian students from all other Geelong schools (government and independent) to participate in the course at Covenant College in 2009. Our current students are presenting a short DVD presentation at school assemblies and churches throughout the Geelong region. I am also working alongside School Chaplains, Coordinators and Principals in government schools to extend this invitation to Christian students, who may not have previously had opportunity or support in their desire to grow deeper in their Christian faith.
In partnership with local churches and schools, students are encouraged to be actively involved in Christian Ministry. At present these include: leading Youth groups; mentoring younger students; involvement in Church music ministries; and giving practical help and support to community groups such as the Breakfast program at Christ Church, Geelong which has been developed as an outreach to the homeless in the Geelong community.
There are so many other practical opportunities for students to participate in ‘hands-on’ activities, allowing for the growth and development of each student’s gifts and talents. In addition to the practical outreach, students are required to have direct involvement in peer-group classes, mentoring programs with church leaders and personal daily Bible readings and journaling. Weekend Retreats are held each term and are integral to sharing and building relationships with other Christian students throughout Victoria.
Together we hope to build a strong support network between the Geelong churches and schools to nurture senior students in their walk with the Lord.
As the ‘Vetamorphus’ students grow deeper in their relationships with the Lord within the Covenant College community, we trust that they will be equipped to live-out their Christian lives as they put back into the Geelong region. In ‘Vetamorphus’, our students are challenged to follow the teachings of the apostle Paul from Romans 12:2
“Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind”.
If you would like to find out more, know any students that may be interested in enrolling in ‘Vetamorphus’, or would like to be involved in supporting the program in prayer, as a mentor or Ministry leader, please feel free to contact me to discuss this further.
For more information please contact Steven Sobey at ssobey@covenant.vic.edu.au