LCA Blog

January 2026

Because we trusted God.

March, 2013. We had been teaching for four years at this point and were getting established in our respective schools. Owned a house in the city where we worked, and I could walk to work. We were pursing our Master's degree in Special Education through Liberty University. We were content with our lives, even though there had been turmoil in our children's lives; things were settling down. A new equilibrium was being established.

Then, the unthinkable happened, and one of our sons died. Our way of life was upended, and there was nothing certain in our lives, except our faith in God. What followed was a dark year full of grief and paralysis. 1 Peter 1:6-7 states, "In all this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. These have come so that the proven genuineness of your faith-of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire-may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed."

But God knew what He had in store for us and how He would use this loss to change us and grow us to His purpose. We went to the campus of Liberty University, and in our very first class, our professor, Dr. Smith, stated he had a friend coming from China who was looking for teachers to teach overseas. Debby and I looked at each other and knew that was God's purpose for us. We spoke to the superintendent, and he explained there were schools in China and the U.A.E. (United Arab Emirates). Debby felt the call for the post in the U.A.E., but I said no (not listening or trusting God entirely at this point). 

Originally intending to embark in August 2014 for Chengdu, a seaside resort city in NE China, we had to postpone due to low enrollment. In January, they called and asked if we would be willing to go to Wuhan. We said yes, then looked at a map. Wuhan was in the middle of China, south of Beijing. Slightly disheartened (after all, it wasn't a seaside resort city), we set ourselves to prepare for departure. What followed was a fantastic adventure that spanned. ten years, three continents, countless countries, endless adventures, and amazing friendships with memories to last a lifetime. 

Isaiah 48:10 states, "I have refined you, though not as silver; I have tested you in the furnace of affliction." Even with our incredible time in China, it was not without its own trials and tribulations. We were illiterate, as everything was in Chinese. We had to learn the basics of Mandarin quickly to be understood when going to the market. I had a knee replacement and was then diagnosed with cancer while in China. So many things, but through it all, we trusted God.

Following the cancer treatment, we had to come home for a year. Then God called again. So, off we went to the U.A.E., a Muslim country, and nowhere I wanted to be. But, you only say no to God once if you're smart. I keep thinking of Job. I was wrong. We were there for three years, and those were some of the best years of our careers and lives. I was renewed and took the words of 2 Corinthians 16-20 to heart, "So from now on we regard no one from a worldly point of view. Though we once regarded Christ in this way, we do so no longer. Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here! All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting people's sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation. We are therefore Christ's ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ's behalf: Be reconciled to God."

Trusting in God and His purpose can be the hardest thing for some of us. We can be too individualistic, too independent, or too stubborn. But the last tens years have taught me to truly lean into God and trust Him, especially during times of transition or change. (Especially when it's not the change or transition I wanted.) My prayer for you as we enter this new year is that when God calls on you to change, to make that transition you may not want to make, lean into God, trust in God, and know that He has a purpose for you, and to feel peace from that knowledge. 

Ric Cattell, Director of Curriculum
rcattell@libertychristiancademy.org

 

December 2025

 As we find ourselves in the midst of this Christmas, our hearts naturally turn toward celebrations, decorations, traditions and giving. We enter the busy season of lists, planning, and juggling commitments. These are beautiful parts of the season but as a school community grounded in faith, we should also be reminded of the true reason we celebrate.

"Behold, the virgin will conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel." Isaiah 7:14

The name Immanuel in Hebrew means "God is with us," and Isaiah's promise signals that the presence of God will bring salvation to His people. Christmas is the celebration of God stepping into our world. Jesus came near as a baby. He lived among us. He entered into our brokenness with hope, light, and salvation. This truth should change everything about how we live and how we celebrate. 

Intentionality With Our Families

This Christmas season reminds me of the powerful opportunities we have to be intentional in our homes. While gifts and gatherings are joyful, the greatest gift we can give our children is a clear example of what it means to live for Christ every day. As parents and grandparents, we have the privilege to set aside intentional moments as a family to pray together, read Scripture, and reflect on the story of Jesus' brith. We can be intentional to let our children hear us speak about why Christmas truly matters. We can show them ways to share the gospel message this Christmas.
 

"Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; He is the Messiah, the Lord." Luke 2:11

Being a Blessing to Those in Need

Jesus came as a gift to the world and we are called to live as gifts to others. This season is a time to look beyond ourselves and actively seek out ways to bless those in need. Whether it's giving to a family in need, serving in your community, writing encouraging notes, or simply showing kindness to a neighbor, small acts can carry great impact. 

          "Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others." 1 Peter 4:10

Encouraging One Another in Love

In our homes and classrooms, we want to be intentional about building one another up. Encourage your children to look for ways to show kindness, patience, forgiveness, and compassion. These moments teach them how to reflect on the heart of Christ every day, not just at Christmas. 

       "Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds." Hebrew 10:24

Sharing the Greatest Story Ever Told

The Christmas story is the greatest message of hope the world has ever known. This season provides natural, meaningful opportunities to share the gospel with neighbors, family members, classmates, and friends. Let our words and actions point clearly to Jesus.

At school, we are encouraging our students to look for ways to serve, to speak life, to include others, and to love boldly because that is exactly what Christ did for us. 

As we enter this Christmas season, may we slow down, focus our hearts, and remember that God is with us. May our homes, our classrooms, and our community reflect the love, light, and hope Jesus Christ.

         "For to us a child is born, to us a son is given..." Isaiah 9:6 

From our school family to yours, we pray you experience the intentional joy, peace, and wonder that only Christ can bring this Christmas.

 

Mary Glenn, Elementary Principal
mglenn@libertychristianacademy.org

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

November 2025

As we head into the Thanksgiving season, it is easy to get caught up in the spirit, and many of us turn our thoughts to the things we are thankful for. When I would host Thanksgiving dinner, one of the questions I asked my guests (family) was, "What are you thankful for?" What followed was a hodgepodge of things: "food to eat," "a home to live in," etc. But we never considered the deeper connection between gratitude and God, or the spiritual value of gratitude. In point of fact, gratitude holds significant spiritual value, enhancing our connection with God and others.

There is a Biblical foundation to gratitude that instructs us to always be thankful to God in all that we do. In Paul's letter to the Thessalonians, he teaches them to "Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you." (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18) Even while he is in prison in Rome, Paul writes to the Philippians and exhorts them, "do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God." (Philippians 4:6-7).

Psalm 100 exhorts us to approach God with gratitude and thanksgiving in our hearts. Verse 4 states, "Enter his gates with thanksgiving, and his courts with praise! Give thanks to him; bless his name!" Colossians 3:15-17 entreats us to approach God with thanksgiving in our hearts three times. 

When we practice gratitude daily, we develop a path to deeper spiritual growth and connection to God and others. That means we need to express heartfelt gratitude to others as well. That expression helps deepen relationships with others, building a stronger community of those you interact with. 

So, how do we increase the rate of gratitude expressions in our lives? One way I have used is to list a few things I am grateful for as I prepare for sleep. Another way is by journaling. Each night before bed, write one thing you are thankful for and put it in a jar. At the end of the year (or whenever you may be feeling down or doubting yourself), get out the jar, pull a slip of paper out, and read what you were grateful for.

A simple Google search came up with the following ways to incorporate gratitude in your life: 
Morning: As you wake up, think of or say three things you are grateful for to set a positive tone for the day.
Mealtime: Before eating, either mentally or out loud with family, list one thing you are thankful for that happened that day.
Bedtime: Before going to sleep, write down or mentally list three to five things you are grateful for from the day.

Journaling and Writing
Keep a gratitude journal: Spend a few minutes each day writing down specific things you are thankful for, whether big or small. Write a gratitude letter: Write a letter to someone you appreciate, even if you don't send it, to reflect on their positive impact.

Expressing Gratitude to Others
Say thank you: Make it a habit to verbally thank family, friends, or coworkers for both big and small things. Perform acts of kindness: Help a neighbor, hold the door for someone, or do another random act of kindness to show appreciation through action.

Mindfulness and Reflection
Go on a gratitude walk: While walking, take time to notice and appreciate the beauty of nature or other peaceful moments around you. Use a gratitude app: Some apps are designed to guide you through gratitude exercises.

Gratitude and the expression thereof need to be an active part of our lives. It is one of the best ways to strengthen not only our relationship with each other, but more importantly, with God. I encourage each of you to choose at least one method of expressing your gratitude this Thanksgiving season.

I am grateful for each of our families and students who are involved with Liberty Christian Academy.

Ric Cattell, Director of Curriculum
rcattell@libertychristianacademy.org

October 2025

2 Corinthians 8:21 - "For we are taking pains to do what is right, not only in the eyes of the Lord but also in the eyes of men". 

While academics are very important in preparing children for the future, there is something that is just as important that is often overlooked.  That is character education.  Character education can help students to develop and practice values such as responsibility, perseverance, kindness, respect, and honesty. 

Reasons Character Education is Important

It helps students to succeed academically.  When students know that they are respected and supported, they will be more engaged and focused on their academic studies. Research has shown that when students learn perseverance and responsibility, they have improved test scores and higher grades. 

• Students will have a healthier mindset when they are taught to view their mistakes as opportunities to learn.  When they are given grace and the opportunity to learn from their mistakes, they will have less anxiety and worry.  
• Students will have healthier relationships with their parents, classmates, and teachers when they learn to communicate and have respect for others.  
• As adults, they will have the self-discipline, confidence, and motivation to reach their goals.  
• They will be more successful in their careers when they have practiced teamwork, accountability, credibility, and resilience.  These are all important skills to have in any workplace! 

 

Ways Parents and Teachers can Help

• Parents and teachers can help students to learn these skills by modeling them in their own lives.  When students see the adults in their lives modeling integrity, kindness, and respect, they see these as important skills to incorporate into their own lives. 
• Teachers and parents can work together to be consistent and fair in discipline.  For example, if students are held accountable for their actions at school, parents can also hold them accountable at home for the same actions.  Have open communication where expectations can be shared between school and home.  
• In the same way, parents and teachers can also be consistent in the praise given for positive behaviors.  When students receive praise and recognition for positive behaviors, they will be more likely to repeat them.  
• When schools and families work together, we can raise kids that are not just smart, but resilient, compassionate, and socially responsible.  We can send children out into the world equipped to be who God created them to be with the skills to be successful in the workplace and in their communities.  Matthew 5:16 says to "Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven."   By working together, we can help students to shine bright for Jesus throughout their lives! 

Erin Gaglione, Director of Early Education
egaglione@libertychristianacademy.org

September 2025 

A Higher Calling

As Christ followers, we are called to live differently. The Apostle Paul reminds us in Colossians 3:23-24, "Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ." Reading Paul's words, you sense that he is leaving no room for half-hearted efforts or casual living. We are called to a higher standard of excellence because our work, our words, and our interaction are an act of worship to God.

Excellence in Every Area of Life

This call to excellence is not just about what happens inside a church service or inside a classroom. It's about how we live every part of our lives. Paul writes in Philippians 1:27, "Only let your manner of life be worthy of the gospel of Christ." Esther 4:14 challenges us to consider, "And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?" We are here right now, placed in our roles as parents, teachers, coaches, and leaders and we are called to live with excellence for God's glory this very season. 

When we live this calling out, excellence becomes visible in many ways like: in how we interact with teachers, how we as parents encourage one another, how we speak to our children's coaches and how we disciple our children to treat other students. Our children observe as we model respect, humility, and gratitude. Excellence touches every corner of our daily lives and relationships. 

A Lesson I Learned as a Teenager

I remember listening to a pastor when I was a teenager who said, "What God calls you to, He equips you for. If He gives you a task, He gives you all the tools you need to complete it. We are called to use those tools to the best of our ability to bring Him glory." That truth has stayed with me. He went on to say, "God may call one person to build a church on foreign soil and another to clean the toilets in their local church. Either way, the calling is the same. We are called to live out excellence. The task may look different, but the heart posture should be the same. Our desire should be to bring God glory. Whether the work is seen or unseen, small or great, our cry should be to do it with excellence."

Why Excellence Matters

We are not striving for perfection for its own sake, but rather because excellence honors Christ. It reflects His character in us. Our children our watching, and they are learning not only from what we say but from how we live. If they see us model respect, kindness, a servant heart, and humility in our interactions, they will learn that excellence is not just a task, it's a calling.

Practical Ways to Disciple Children in Excellence

Here are a few practical ways:

1. Model Excellence in Everyday Tasks

Show your children that excellence is not about big achievements, but about faithfulness in the small things. This could be as simple as being on time, speaking with kindness, completing school work with care, or showing gratitude.

2. Teach Them to See Their Work as Worship

Homework, chores, or helping a sibling are opportunities to remind your child that these are opportunities God has given us to serve others. They are not duties that we simply fulfill, but opportunities to serve the Lord and bring Him glory.

3. Encourage Respectful Interactions

Help model for your children excellence in relationships. Show your children what it looks like to listen well, speak truth in love, show grace when conflicts arise, and honor authority figures like teachers or coaches.

4. Celebrate Effort Done Well

Recognize not only the grade on a paper, but also the diligence, perseverance, and attitude displayed while completing it. Make sure you are recognizing the process as well as the result.

5. Pray Together for Excellence

Make prayer a daily habit. Ask God for help. Pray to be a family that honors Him in words, actions, and attitudes.

Living for Such a Time as This

When we commit ourselves to living out Paul's challenge to do everything as unto the Lord and remember Esther's reminder that God has positioned us for such a time as this, we are not only obeying God's commands but also shaping the next generation to live with the same intentionality. Let's fully embrace our calling to excellence and make it visible in the way we serve, speak, and love one another.  

Mary Glenn, Elementary Principal
mglenn@libertychristianacademy.org

 

 

 

August 2025

I recently asked our first-year faculty during onboarding, "Have you ever wondered what your life's mission is?" Most of us have wrestled with that question at some point.

In the classic TV series Mission: Impossible, a team of agents would receive an assignment each week. Their mission was always high-risk, but clear: here's the problem, here's your role, an here's what success looks like. 

As believers, our mission is not a mystery - and it's not optional. Jesus made it clear in all four Gospels:

• Matthew 29:19-20 - "Go therefore and make disciples... teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you."
• Mark 16:15 - "Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature."
• Luke 24:47 - "...that repentance and forgiveness of sins should be preached..."
• John 20:21 - "As the Father has sent me, I also send you."

Making disciples isn't just a "moment of decision." It's ongoing training, walking alongside others, and teaching them how to live for Christ. As the message paraphrases Matthew 28:19 - "Go out and train everyone you meet... in this way of life."

Our Mission

At Liberty Christian Academy, our mission is simple yet life-shaping:

To provide a quality Christian education in a Christ-centered environment in order to reach students for Christ and equip them to serve God and impact the world through biblical thought and action.

REACHING students for Christ.

EQUIPPING students to serve God.

IMPACTING our community and the world. 

This year, we're keeping that mission clear by focusing on three stages of a student's journey:

Build the Foundation (Elementary School) - Partnering with you to establish a firm biblical and academic base.

Navigate the Development (Middle School) - Walking with students through critical seasons of change.

Set the Trajectory (High School) - Preparing them to launch into the world with purpose and conviction.

And throughout all these stages, we are committed to making every moment matter - measuring the minutes, mastering the moments, and maximizing the movement.

Amanda Cecil, Head of School
acecil@libertychristianacademy.org