ICA Valentine Exchange – Ignite Christian Academy

I Corinthians 13

Valentine's Day is a day of love,
For showing that we care,
And if we read the Bible,
God describes love there:

If we speak like celestial angels
From heaven up above,
All our words mean nothing
If we don't have Christian love.

Love is patient, love is kind;
It doesn't brag or boast;
Love conquers pride and envy;
It is never self-engrossed.

Love is not rude or angry;
Forgiveness counters wrong;
Love stays away from evil;
It sings a truthful song.

Love is full of trust and hope;
It always perseveres;
Love never fails; It's faithful;
To the Bible it adheres.

And if you give this kind of love
To your special Valentine,
You'll be loving right in harmony
With God's own sweet design.

By Joanna Fuchs

Published with permission. http://www.poemsource.com/

Valentine's Day brings the opportunity to share love, as the Bible says in Matthew 22:39: "Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself." With this in mind, the Ignite Christian Academy elementary teachers came up with an idea to spread Christian friendship and care between distance learning students with an elementary valentine exchange between classmates. This holiday card exchange was much more than mailing a colorful card.

The valentine exchange was an optional activity and received great results with over 30 elementary students participating. Students were divided into grades 1st – 3rd and 4th – 6th. Students shared an interesting fact about themselves in their valentines, and those participating are finding it fun to discover their classmates' hobbies, favorite colors, pets, and more! Combining both grade groups, ICA elementary teachers estimate each student both sent and will receive anywhere from one to 15 valentine cards.

The variety of valentines paralleled the individuality of the students who sent them. Some store-bought valentines featured favorite cartoon characters while other hand-crafted valentines showcased student's craftiness. Several cards even included a special gift such as a festive sticker, pencil, or bookmark. Each elementary student participant will be rewarded for their kindness by receiving an envelope stuffed with greetings from their peers. Those who participated should keep an eye on the mailbox if you haven't received your cards already!

This valentine exchange makes this lesson on Christian love sweeter than any chocolates could be.

ICA teachers and staff believe connecting students at all grade levels is a valuable part of the online learning experience. Look for more opportunities to connect with other ICA students in the future with events like this, along with virtual online parties like the Winter Cele-break-tion last December and the February Facts and Fun Party (for grades 7-12) on February 22!

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