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MCS Newsletter #31
May 23-30, 2013
It is very quiet here with the students and most of the staff gone for the break now! We can praise God for another school year completed and for all of His provision for us! Here are a few of the highlights from our last week.
It was announced that Joel was voted to be the Student Body President for next year and Naemi will be the Vice-President.
The Senior gift to the school was two beautiful, much needed, guitars! Thank you!
In Chapel, all the students and staff that are leaving were honored and they shared where they will be going next and gave us their prayer requests. Besides the 5 graduates, these students will not be returning: Calvin, HaeRim, HaeYoung, Wesley, Daniel H, Caleb, Jennifer and Heather. The staff that are leaving are: Colin and Heather Barnes, David and Barb Howe, Katie Chaddock, Amy Lynn, Catherine Wood, and Benedikt, Elisabeth and Jonathan, the GAP students. We will miss all of these very much but will keep them in our prayers!
Elementary had a swim day at ISOI. It was a hot day so they were in the refreshing water almost the whole time!
The Senior High Banquet is always one of the highlights of the year for them. The Grade 11 students and advisors had put in many hours of planning. Breakfast, then playing games at the zoo in Islamabad and swimming at the Australian embassy preceded getting all dressed up for the evening. An excellent dinner at the ‘1969' restaurant and a fun program honoring the seniors was a very enjoyable end to the day.
On Sunday, Uncle Colin gave a very inspirational message to us all about obedience and faith and living in this unique place. I have emailed this to the parents, but if anyone else would like a copy, please let me know. Miss Lynn said a special prayer for the graduates.
Monday, the students performed the drama again - A Midsummer Night's Dream.
Tuesday was the Awards ceremony. After a number from our band, students from each grade were honored who had earned an award for outstanding achievement or improvement academically, or for their involvement in music, drama or sports. The Citizenship awards went to Jennifer, Benjamin L, Rohit, Benjamin Proctor, Naemi and Peter. Lizzy Wiley was recognized as Salutatorian and Jared Armistead as Valedictorian.
The Baptism, which was on Wednesday, is always a highlight! After a message from Rev. Kim, six students gave their moving testimonies and were baptized. We are so delighted to see these young people maturing in their understanding and relationship with the Lord!
Jodie, Jonas, JuHee, Jonathan, Seth and Aman
Then came the final day of celebration and the Graduation ceremony! Elizabeth gave the Salutatorian address and Jared gave the Valedictorian address. Mr. Lannon and Mrs. Lanz also spoke. The banners and balloons gave a festive look to the gym.
Grace Schumacher, Elizabeth Wiley, Peter Jung, Jared Armistead, Jamie Lannon
The celebration continued in a line of congratulations under a shamiana and also in the decorated dining room around tables of delicious food, (thanks to the Grade 11 parents!).
There were about 190 guests, students and parents who attended. We were glad to see former students, Hannah Condie (Class of ‘10), and Michelle McNeil, Joshua Wiley, and Rebecca Carpenter (Class of '11)
Thank you for your faithful prayers over the year! We praise God for His protection, His provision and His faithfulness.
We pray that the year 2012-2013 at MCS holds many good memories and that all will have safe travels and a good break!
MCS Newsletter #30
May 16-22, 2013
Classes have still been working hard on many interesting projects!
In Home Ec recently, students have made chocolate pizza, chicken crepes, and lasagna!
In CDT, Rohan, Aman, and DongHyuk show some of the Grade 7 projects.
In Grade 8 Science, the students had lots of fun with an electrical kit, which contained batteries, conductors and lights so they could put circuits together.
In Grade 8 History the students took pride in creating a Museum all about the Renaissance period.
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The Elementary finished their projects on famous people like Edison and Nobel.
The Graphics Class finished a term project of creating Panther logos for a picnic table. Then one design was chosen and they painted it onto a new table.
Stephen, Noelle, Havilah YeaRim, HyoJi
The Senior Highs enjoyed perfect weather for their campout! They learned to hang ropes in the trees for various activities, like hammocks. They played games and hiked to the waterfall. They also had a great time of worship on Sunday.
On the weekend, the Junior High played water games.
In Chapel last week we heard testimonies from the 10th graders who went on the hike recently. They told how God answered prayer, how their trust in Him grew, and how they forgot their own problems when they helped others.
Then their Christian Studies class demonstrated, in humorous ways, the importance of reading and studying the Bible for yourself, and of trusting God, as Daniel's three friends did in the fiery furnace. Uncle Harry spoke to us in church, encouraging us, with many interesting illustrations, to guard and train our minds.
Praises and Prayer Requests: Praise for a great SH Campout!
Praise for faithful teachers who are still putting in a great effort to teach interesting lessons besides giving exams! Praise for the way God has made our minds so that we can learn and be so creative.
Pray for the graduates as this next week is their big week! Jared, Peter, Jamie, Grace, Lizzy Pray for Staff to be patient and gracious and have the energy for the next several days!
MCS Newsletter #29
May 9-15, 2013
We finished up Korea week with more great Korean food and a wonderful Chapel program!
Our Korean students were dressed in their beautiful outfits and the girls performed a traditional fan dance. Peter told about the history of the Gospel coming to Korea which began in 1794. Early Christians suffered persecution, but now, 26% of the population is Christian. Korea has the biggest church in the world with one million members and is the 2nd largest mission sending country in the world. Please pray for North Korea and the secret believers there who risk persecution. DoHoon humorously gave some historical facts about his country. Prizes were given for winners who guessed the most correct answers to a quiz about Korea. Winners were: Ricky, Sameer, James and Mr. Healey.
Then there was a fashion show, where their traditional dress, the hanbok, was modeled. A group sang a popular praise song in Korean and everyone joined, as best we could, in singing their national anthem. Winners for dressing very colorfully on Friday were Colleen and Jair. A visiting dignitary from the Korean consulate joined us for lunch. Thank you to all of you who made it a great week of celebration and learning!
The Junior High Formal went well. They enjoyed food and games at a restaurant in Murree. Don't the students look great all dressed up! We really are proud of these children!
Here is Grade 7: Priscilla, JuYoung, Aman, Matthias, Rohan, DongHyuk, Jennifer and their advisor, Ms Kosek.
Grade 8: Jonas, Caleb, Daniel, Mr. Miller, Seth, Benjamin, Micha, Hannah, Jodie, Daniel, Wesley, MinHa, JuHee, HaeYoung
Grade 9: Rohit, Shawn, Noelle, Sameer, Tobias, YeaRim, Jair, HaRey, Miss Warwick, HaeRim, Colleen, Jonathan
We extend our sympathies to the Paul Kim family, whose father passed away. Mr. Kim was scheduled to speak for us on Sunday, but since he needed to leave for Korea quickly, Mr. Park filled in for him. We saw an inspirational video of Nick Vujicic, who was born without limbs, reminding us that we can have joy in Christ no matter what our circumstances are! A group sang a Korean song and the Elementary sand a beautiful round about the fruits of the Spirit, which was the theme of our worship time. Thank you to all who take part and lead us in our Sunday worship times!
*Alumni News* Felix, Rene, Julia, Rahel and Deborah Lanz, Jessie Bär, Samuel Keil will be at a youth conference this coming weekend (the 18th-20th) to work at the "chai tent." Basically that means lots of opportunities to interest people in doing short term or long term ministry, such as becoming GAP year students or possibly even teachers. In that tent 3 years ago Julia decided to come to Pakistan after talking to a former GAP year. So pray that God would use it once more to provide workers at MCS and other places around the world!
Thanks to Stephen Wiley for updating our school logo on a number of things!
Praises and Prayer Requests:
Praise that the AP's have finished!
Praise that the country's Elections took place on the 11th and things were quiet here.
Pray for the events coming up in the last week of the school year: Banquet, Drama Baptism and Graduation! (Along with reports, cleaning, packing and saying goodbyes!)
Pray for needed staff: Director, junior English/History, senior Science, ESL, German, and Christian Studies.
MCS Newsletter #28
May 2-8, 2013
The Design Club added our Panther mascot to a concrete wall to bring some school spirit to the area of our new playing field. Jodie, DongHyuk, Stephen, Sameer and Wesley did a great job!
During Chapel announcements, since we have felt some earthquakes recently, some 8th grade students acted out the right and wrong ways to respond to an earthquake. Their skit presented Paul and Silas in prison when the earthquake came, and in order to stay safe, they crawled underneath some desks!
The rest of the Chapel time was devoted to music. Joel led the band in a song from the Big band era of the 1930's and Dr. Scott led an instrumental version of Psalm 42. Then we ‘traveled' to Muscat, Oman, where we heard and saw, by video, some of the performance from the recent trip of six of our choir members. We also saw pictures that illustrated their favorite parts of the trip: fancy cars, playing on the beach, food, singing praise in such a big, mixed group, meeting new people, and enjoying the differences and similarities between Oman and here. Then the group, which included Noah, Tori, HaeYoung, Joel, Helen and YeaRim, sang two of their songs from the Festival.
The Elementary enjoyed mostly good weather for their campout, which was a great blessing! They slept in tents, played games, hiked to the waterfall, and found tadpoles in the stream.
On Saturday the Junior High also had an outing - to ISOI for a swim day. They also played tennis and football and had lunch at Jinnah and ice cream at Tutti-Frutti!
Our guest speaker for Sunday was Pastor Ron Lamb from England. He challenged us to fight our spiritual battles with confidence because of who Jesus is, who we are in Him, and by God's grace and power!
This week we started to celebrate the country of Korea and its colors, traditions, food and games! There was a tournament on the court, playing the game of joc goo, which involves getting a ball back and forth over a net without using hands. Each day we were to wear certain colors of the Korean flag.
Winners so far this week for showing their creative spirit are: Jennifer, Grace S., Lizzy, Elisabeth, David S., Jodie and Auntie Stephanie. And look at some of the beautiful food we have been treated to! The Korean parents have been very busy making Bulgogi, Kimbap, Bibimbap and KimChee! They will do our chapel on Friday - more on that next week!
*Almuni News* MCS alumni, Tom Brown, (Class of '75) visited recently from the US. He is a professor of optics at the University of Rochester, NY, and is visiting universities here.
Praises and Prayer Requests:
Praise for warmer spring weather!
Praise for how God has made us one, even though we are so different!
Several AP exams have taken place - more to come next week! Keep praying for our students to do their best.
Pray for the 10 staff leaving at the end of this school year, and for their next stage of life and service. (Barnes, Howe, Katie, Amy, Catherine, Benedikt, Elisabeth, Jonathan)
Pray for needed staff: Director, junior English/History, senior Science, ESL, German, and Christian Studies.
MCS Newsletter #27
April 25 - May 1, 2013
We continued our celebration of British Isles week with lots of red, white and blue! Tuesday we wore red and white, which stood for the English flag.
Wednesday was Scottish day with blue and white and even a kilt! Jared and James won for Scottish day!
We could also dress up like Shakespeare's time in honor of his birthday. Miss Warwick was the flag and Miss Lynn looked very Shakespearian!
Thursday, Noah was an easy winner for being the most red, representing Wales!
Friday was royalty day!
Jodie and friends made a golden crown, earrings, a necklace and a ring....from Butter Puff crackers!!! We don't need much to make events special!!
At our Friday chapel, the British group led our time. Karuna and Naemi were the students with the most correct guesses on the week's quiz. Mr. and Mrs. Healey talked about the some of the history of the British Isles and of the famous Christians who changed history, such as, Wycliffe, Tyndale, Slessor and Livingstone. We prayed for these countries which now need a revival!
The Junior High had a fun campout which was dry for most of the time. They enjoyed a walk along the pipeline.
At a recent chapel, Dr. Scott informed us of a scholarship sponsored by TEAM for Pakistani Christian students so they can go on to their secondary education. We heard the testimony of a woman who is now a doctor that benefitted from this scholarship. There were 35 recipients in 2012. Students have been able to study in pharmacy, biology, medicine, business, agriculture, or seminary. MCS gave Rs50, 000 from their offering money last year.
Praises and Prayer Requests: Praise for Harry and Hans' safe trip up north to visit some schools Harry is involved with.
Praise for a good JH campout.
Pray for 11th and 12th graders who take AP's next week.
Pray for several students who are taking the baptism classes.
Pray for the banquet and graduation activities.
MCS Newsletter #26 April 18-24, 2013
The Grade 10 returned after their 3 day hike and camping out tired but with a sense of accomplishment. Students were: Noah, Havilah, EunJohng, Tori, Helen, Grace, Song, Calvin, and Stephen. They, along with Uncle Hans, Miss Lynn, Mr. Heger and a guide, walked over 20 kilometers, carrying heavy packs over steep trails and even some snow. They experienced the beauty of the mountains and the necessity of trusting the Lord as they faced many challenges.
Mr. Albert spoke to us in chapel using the illustration of our school generators as examples of how we also need fuel (the Bible and the Holy Spirit) to help us shine the light of God's love to a dark world.
The senior high made a trip to Islamabad on the weekend for dinner, and shopping. The 11th grade is busy planning the special day of banquet coming next month! The Junior High enjoyed a movie at a theater, followed by dinner. The Elementary spent the day at the Jhelum River, playing in the water and enjoying a picnic.
Mr. Lanz gave an inspiring message in church about the faith of blind Bartimaeus that overcame obstacles.
This week, those who are from the British Isles put up the bright colors of the various flags, and introduced us to their unique foods. Contests of the popular game of cricket were played, and we tried to guess the answers to a quiz. Each day brought a challenge to dress in certain colors and the creativity of staff and students was quite entertaining! Here is a group dressed in Ireland's colors. I'll have more pictures from the rest of the week in the next newsletter.
We are happy to announce the birth of Lillian May Albers! She weighed 8 pounds, 3 ounces and was born at 3:00 AM on April 21st. Congratulations to parents and former staff members, Laura and Darcy Albers!
Praises and Prayer Requests: Praise for the safety and lessons learned from the 10th grade hike.
Pray for Grade 11 and 12 students who are studying for their AP exams May 6-17. Pray for students considering the step of baptism.
Pray for this last month of the school year and all the work, activities and plans.
Pray for the 5 graduates: for their final days here and their future plans - Jared, Peter, Jamie, Grace and Lizzy.
Pray for the printing of the yearbook, the Kahani.
MCS Newsletter #25 April 11-17, 2013
Saturday was a beautiful day for a celebration honoring our National Staff! (The rain held off until afterwards!) Everyone helped to decorate, set up and serve this annual appreciation dinner. Then all the National Staff and their families came for a fun time of cricket on the court, playing on the playground and trampoline, and visiting at the ladies' tea.
Mr. Lannon, Mr. Simon and the Student Reps gave messages of thanks, and Mr. Albert, along with some students and staff, performed a musical number. Other students put on a funny skit. Food was taken to the guards who had to be on duty. The delicious meal was prepared by local cooks, and the students did the dishes and cleaned up so our cooks could have a day off too!
This assignment in Mr. Healey's Grade 7 Technical Drawing class, was to draw personalized trucks in one point perspective. They came up with some wonderfully creative designs using their own names!
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What took 80 truckloads of soil, (16,000 cubic feet), five months of work in the cold, snow and rain, building a wall, leveling ground, transplanting sod, and a lot of back-breaking, hard work? Our new field! Since there's not much level ground here in the mountains, we make our own! The army does not allow us to use their field across the road from our compound anymore, so this new space is a very important addition for us! It gives us a safe place, away from the view of the road, where we can hold a variety of activities year around! Uncle Harry was thanked for having the vision, Mr. Albert, for organizing the work, and donors were thanked for the funds to pay for it! David S. had the honor of cutting the ribbon. Then the field was open for use!
In Chapel we watched a video of the recent wedding of Esther Crooks and Ben Olson in England. It made it seem like we were right there celebrating with them! Then we watched a short video from John Piper on missions around the world encouraging all of us to be informed, pray, love, and go! Benedikt spoke for our church service. His theme was, ‘How do you talk to yourself? Who is the most important voice in your life? What do you tell yourself about yourself and about God? The writer of Psalm 42 expresses his troubles and feelings, yet his reaction to his troubles is one of faith and putting his hope in God.
Praises and Prayer Requests: Praise for a new field for all to use and the vision and work that made it a reality!
Praise for our great National Staff , a good time of interaction at the dinner, and for the sunshine!
Praise that we have much to celebrate!
We are thankful for a few visas being granted, but please continue praying for the others that still need to come through.
MCS Newsletter #24 April 4-10, 2013
From sets to makeup - costumes to learning lines...a lot goes into the creating of a drama! And MCS celebrated another successful production! Shakespeare's A Midsummer Night's Dream provided lots of humor and colorful costumes as it was adapted to the 1980's! Miss Lynn directed the play and the students performed very well. If you missed it, we hope to have a DVD available and the play will be put on again on May 27. Congratulations everyone on a job well done!
Here are the some of the students who visited MCS for our Week Of Welcome. They made their names out of wood in CDT! It was great to have Peter, Simran, Sia, Taeeun, and Harim here, as well as Sieun and Subin.
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Miss Lynn's History 7 class was comparing Spartan and Athenian cultures recently. They learned that the Spartan culture was more warlike, with even the women training for war. Athenians were non-violent and enjoyed trade, art, poetry, and architecture. They had fun acting out their parts!
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The Grade 12 had a brief style show to start out chapel and to advertise their newly designed MCS T-shirts...on sale now!
Math awards from the recent World Math Day Competition were given to Paul, Sarah, JuYoung, Jodie, JuHee, Benjamin and David. Congratulations!
Former staff member, Liz Giller, spoke for our chapel. She talked about how there is always change, yet the love of God is constant. It is great to have her back in the country to work!
Pastor Chris Best, visiting the area from the USA, spoke for our Sunday service about how Jesus sees, cares and acts, similar to how a loving father reaches down to his child. Will you respond by reaching up to him?
This week we experienced a 5.4 earthquake, centered to the west. Many, however, didn't even feel it.
*Alumni News* We had a visit from some Swedish alumni recently: Joel Stenlund and his parents, and Inge Andersson and Sten Jonsson, who lived here in the 90's.
Praises and Prayer Requests: Praise for a great Drama production!
Praise for the beautiful wedding of Ben Olson and Esther Crooks in England!
Praise for our Week Of Welcome and the new students who could experience MCS.
Pray for a good time of interaction as we give the National Staff an appreciation dinner tomorrow. Pray for the safe arrival of Darcy and Laura Albers' baby soon!
Continue to pray for the granting of visas for new staff and current staff as well as staffing needs for next year.
MCS Newsletter #23 March 25-April 3, 2013
We are very grateful that we all made it back from March break travels safely!
A very important week of celebration was ahead!
Preparations for special Good Friday and Easter services were taking place in the community: rehearsals for band and choir specials, the breakfast at St. Margaret's Church, and thoughtful gifts were being prepared. Our Chapel on Good Friday was made up of meditative music and readings. After entering the hall quietly, several members of the choir sang and the senior class did a dramatic reading of the scriptures describing Jesus' crucifixion. We left in silence to consider the price that Jesus paid for our sins.
Easter morning greeted us with a beautiful sunrise! The seniors led an early service to celebrate the empty tomb! Then we gathered at church to continue the celebration of Jesus' resurrection!
Many took part in the Sunday service to make it a very special time. Jennifer, Priscilla and JuYoung acted out the meeting of the women with the angel. The Elementary students led a procession to the front, tossing fragrant rose petals. Joel led the band, choir and congregation in some of our favorite Easter hymns of praise. Mr. Schwartz spoke about how Christ defeated sin and death on the cross, and his resurrection ensures a place in heaven for those who accept him.HaRey, HaRim, HyoJi, Noelle and Grace performed a dance that pantomimed our sorrowful condition and the loving sacrifice of Jesus. The service ended with the choir singing the Hallelujah chorus!
The annual IOWA tests have been taking place this week for students in grades 5-8. Each morning the students spend about 1 ½ hours answering questions on these standardized tests. When the scores are returned, they will help teachers see where students' strengths and weaknesses are in English, Math, Social Studies and Science. We will also send a summary of each child's results to their parents. ‘Thanks' to David who has been coordinating and supervising this process.
*Alumni News* Rebecca Brees (Class of 2009) will be moving to Boston (USA) in May after graduation for physical therapy school at MGH-IHP.
Zack Rivenbark (Class of 2012 ) finished the 1st semester at UNC Charlotte (USA) with a 4.0 - that means all A's!
Praises and Prayer Requests: Praise that Margie Stock's health is improving.
Continue to pray for their further travels.
Pray for Marit Rasmussen as she has returned home to recover from an auto accident.
Pray for the safe arrival of Darcy and Laura Albers' baby soon!
Continue to pray for the granting of visas for new staff and current staff as well as staffing needs for next year.
MCS Newsletter #22
March 7-14, 2013
The annual tradition of Junior High "Open House" continues at MCS! After getting ballots and instructions on voting criteria, we visited the boys' floor first. All the boys were very welcoming and served us a variety of treats. In the ‘Tutti Frutti Ice Cream Parlor', Micah, Jonas, Daniel T. served ice cream and toppings, wearing their professional-looking aprons.
We traveled back in time to Medieval Europe, which was Benjamin, Wesley, and Tobias' room. Here guests could test their archery skills in the forest of the castle.
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Rohit and Jonathan created a jail room which had bread and water, weights and a rock pile for exercise, and a dungeon. All the areas were heavily guarded by an armed guard.
We entered a jungle when we entered Matthias and DongHyuk's room! The transformation of their room was very complete with many plants, ‘vines' and monkeys hanging from the ceiling and animals watching us from behind the trees! Visitors could relax in the tent, enjoy smore's from the ‘real' campfire, and watch the fish, turtle and crabs!
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Then it was on to the girl's floor. Guests could dance in the ‘Saturday Night Fever Disco' created by JuYoung, Priscilla and Jodie. Their disco ball, stage and music made it a popular place to hang out. ‘BBQ Night Party' was the theme in the room by HaeRim, HaRey and Noelle. The smell of the sausages on the grill drew a hungry crowd as hanging party lights helped create an outdoor atmosphere. The ‘Little People Kitchen' was the creation ofHaeYoung, Hannah and JuHee. They did an amazing job of creating the feeling of being small in a world of giants. Their toaster, oven, plates, and a sink full of 'dirty' dishes made us feel like a giant might come into their kitchen any moment! This picture shows the huge tissue box and salt &pepper set the size of their bed!
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We had a Beach Party in MinHa and Colleen's room. Palm trees, fishing nets, shells and beach balls created a fun atmosphere. After judging the rooms on creativity and originality, ambiance, how welcoming and interesting the room was, the effort and time put into the projects, and the food (presentation, flavor and whether it fit the theme) two rooms were judged the winners: the Jungle and the Beach won! Thank you everyone for your effort and creativity! We had a great time!
Our Grade 12 students took the opportunity in Chapel to show a video they had made. In it, they shared about the times in their lives that have challenged their faith, times they've had doubts, and how they've come to know Christ better. They did an excellent job and we were all very challenged.
Every Friday evening, the students lead their own youth group. They plan for times of singing and Bible study in small groups. This Friday, they had an extended time of worship, which was enjoyed very much.
Dave Martunnen, from Canada, was our guest speaker for church. Using the story of Jonathan, from 1 Samuel, he made the point that God often calls us to serve when we are under equipped and feeling inadequate. He urged us to see what is in our hands and choose to use what we have for God! We really appreciated having Dave and John here for a couple of days. They were able to spend time with some Christian Studies classes and a science class encouraging the students. They also had time to encourage the staff, too! Thank you for coming!
The grade 11 students spent the weekend in Islamabad just enjoying time together. They were also able to lead worship at the International Church. Thanks to the Lanz family who hosted them!
Each year, there is a "Leaving Seminar" for students who will be leaving MCS at the end of the year. This was held an evening this week for the five graduates and will be held again for the other (possibly 9) students. We want them to be able to leave well and be prepared to confidently go to their new situations! Thanks, Catherine, for leading this!
Thanks to Niklas who has been here for six weeks helping in the Elementary and other areas. He has been a great help!
*Alumni News* We had some special guests visit for a day this week: Lila Joseph and her friend from Norway and Olav Svenlund and his wife Unn. Olav was a student here and Lila was in the country many years as a nurse. Her three children attended here in the 90's.
Praises and Prayer Requests: Praise for so many parents and alumni and others who support MCS in a variety of ways!
We are still in need of applications for Elementary House Parents, Athletic Director / PE teacher, ESL, Christian Studies, and German teachers, and an upper Science teacher.
MCS Newsletter #21 February 28 - March 6, 2013
After much shoveling by workers, the court is now free of snow, and it was wonderful today, to see the students happily playing soccer in the sunshine! The trees are blooming - hopeful signs of spring! Another wonderful hope that we have is the hope of eternal life in heaven with our Lord!
This week's Chapel was dedicated to the memory of Mr. Russell Morton, who recently passed away in Australia. He was a much loved husband and father. He was director of MCS during the traumatic time of the attack in 2002 and helped organize the school's move to Thailand. He was God's person for this critical time in our history and we appreciated him very much. Our sympathies and prayers go out to his family at this time.
Our students who receive individual music lessons gave a recital Saturday evening to show what they have been learning. It was a relaxing time of hearing beautiful music for those of us who could just sit back and listen. The students were very nervous to know that their teachers and parents were waiting to hearthem! But they all performed beautifully! Thank you to Mrs. Lim and Dr. Scott who faithfully teach our students! Uncle Colin spoke at Church on the feeding of the 5000. All of our work for Jesus relies on His resources and we find what we need in Him.
The AP Biology students traveled to Bach hospital for a day of observation with Dr. Scott. They were able to see a natural birth, a C-Section, a kidney stone removal, among other procedures. This is certainly a valuable experience for those interested in pursuing a medical career! We appreciate all those at the hospital who hosted our students!
It was "World Maths Day" on Wednesday! This is a competition that many students spend as much time as possible practicing for. Then on the day of the competition, they go online, pick someone around the world to compete against, and try to complete as many math problems as possible in a limited amount of time. We will get the results soon. The Elementary class are pictured here with their poster.
The Grade 8 Maths class recently asked students and staff survey questions, and then made colorful graphs to depict their results. These are posted on the wall of their classroom where we can see their good efforts!
A big "Thanks" to Julia, who recently spent a couple of weeks visiting and helping in various areas, but has now returned to Germany and university. She was a GAP student last year. It's great to have past staff and students remember us and come back for visits!
Praises and Prayer Requests: Praise for eternal life in Christ!
Praise for spring!
Praise for God's creation and how we can learn about it and explore it through our classes like science and maths.
Pray for the family of Russell Morton.
Pray for the MCS Board who will meet next Monday.
Pray for several staff needs for next year, especially elementary house parents, senior science teacher, ESL teacher, PE, German teacher, Christian Studies teacher. We would still welcome applications for the Director position even though Harry is willing to serve for now. Thank you for your prayers for all of us at MCS!
MCS Newsletter #20
February 21-27, 2013
We had a few inches of wet snow last Friday which melted off quickly. But...on Wednesday and Thursday, we got another 10 inches along with snow, hail, thunder and lightning! Spring is not here yet!
The AP Biology class had the opportunity to see their textbooks come alive - almost! They were supplied with a real animal heart, brain and eyes. This is real "hands on" learning! Being able to dissect these parts was a very valuable experience, especially for those interested in pursuing a career in the medical field. Hanna, Sitayesh, Lizzy and Peter learn by doing!
Five of our students joined with a few from ISOI to make up a group to go to the 10th Annual TAISM Choir Festival in Oman. TAISM stands for: The American International School of Muscat.
Dr. Scott worked with these students, HaeYoung, YeaRim, Helen, Tori, Joel and Noah, for the last several weeks to get them ready to perform with other students in a huge choir concert as well as an individual group performance. There were over 200 students from 20 schools, representing 13 countries! It was such a privilege for them to be able to sing a variety of songs, even some which praised God! This year's event was even more special because they were able to perform in the new Bosch auditorium. It is named after Mr. Bosch who was a missionary doctor in an American mission hospital, and his wife, a teacher in an American mission school. They served in Oman for over 50 years. The students stayed with host families and were able to visit beaches in Muscat and Dubai! What a great learning experience!
Another group of students, 23 to be exact, traveled all day and arrived that evening in Lahore for the SAISA Basketball tournament. There were also two student coaches, EJ and Calvin, and staff, Barb, Benedikt and Catherine. The competitions were against with LAS and ISOI. The boys were able to stay at the Trimbles for one night and raved about the great breakfast! The girls stayed at LAS. Games started by mid morning and went until after 6 pm! They continued Saturday morning until lunch. Our boys' teams came in 1st and 2nd, and our team of girls came in 1st, winning every game! After an awards ceremony, the group was back in the vehicles for a late night arrival at MCS.
Julia led our Chapel and spoke about how gratitude leads to joy. Every day Jesus stands at our door with a gift of joy in his hands... how will we respond? A guest speaker, Mr. Wenzel, spoke at Church from Zechariah. He challenged our prayer lives. Are God's priorities our priorities?
The MCS Executive Board met and have several possible staff members for next year! They are just waiting on final documents. We also have three GAP students from Germany. Harry Lannon has agreed to be Director (although the position will continue to be advertised). Wolfgang will continue in the IT and Online Supervisor position. We praise God for dedicated people and God's provision!
Praises and Prayer Requests Praise for a great choir trip and basketball trip! Praise for those who have committed to serve next year, and other possibilities for new staff! Praise for the dedication of our Executive Board members!
MCS Newsletter #19 February 14-20, 2013
While students and teachers are in classes the administration is hard at work too! This week we had a fire drill and a lockdown drill so the students could practice safety measures and the administration could see where improvements are needed. We are very thankful for our safety systems, our personnel, and of course, to the Lord who is always watching over us!
The Junior High had their Spiritual Emphasis Weekend. Steve Sonneman was their speaker. His themes were: The purpose of existence, the purpose of you, the purpose of punishment and the purpose of goodness. They listened well and even continued to talk about what they heard during the next week. They were able to spend some free time in the sauna, around the campfire on Sandes roof, and had lunch at the Cockroach in Murree.
Some of our high school Girls traveled to ISOI on Friday, stayed overnight, and had a full morning of soccer matches with 3 other schools. They earned first place!
Meanwhile, the high school boys spent Saturday in the Margalla hills rock climbing! It looks like they had a fun and challenging time!
A few others spent time bowling and relaxing at a park.
In Chapel, trophies were presented to the girls' and boys' teams who represented MCS at the SAISA Middle School Soccer and Volleyball Tournaments in December at ISOI. Uncle Hans spoke to us on Sunday, using David and Goliath as an example of the spiritual battle that we are in every day. We must trust in the Lord for our strength!
The MCS Choir group, consisting of HaeYoung, YeaRim, Tori, Helen, Joel, Noah and Dr. Scott, left for Muscat, Oman on Tuesday for a Festival of Choirs. We hope to be able to see some of their concert tonight over the internet. https://new.livestream.com/TAISMOman/2013Festivalofchoirs
*Alumni News* Rebekah Newmarch (daughter of Dave & Georgina Newmarch) was married to Peter Town on Saturday 2nd February in Berry, country NSW, Australia. Although she did not graduate from MCS she was part of the Class of 2007.
MCS Newsletter #18
February 7-13, 2013
Here are some of the recent activities of our Grades 7 and 8:
In Miss Lynn's Grade 8 History class, they were learning about Cortez and his conquest of the Aztecs. Jewelry and costumes from our costume cupboard helped dramatize facts they learned.
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In Miss Lynn's Grade 7 History class, they celebrated the Chinese New Year by making... and eating... Chinese dumplings!
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In Mr. Healey's Grade 7 Technical Drawing they are learning the basics of 1 and 2 point perspective. They started with drawing their name and will go on to more complicated projects, like drawing a 3-D room and finally a whole street.
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In Mrs. Howe's Grade 8 Home Ec class the students made pajama pants. This is something very practical and fun! They modeled their bright fabric designs of plaids, soccer balls and stripes.
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The Grade 8 Math class led our Chapel time that was all about numbers! First, students asked the audience Bible questions that had to do with numbers. The one who guessed correctly got candy! Then Jodie and JuHee spoke about how God is like an equation. We can't understand God in all his power or form. Without Jesus it's impossible to know God and have a personal relationship with Him. So if you're struggling in your relationship with God, get to know the answer first! Don't give up, because you were given the answer - Jesus! In church Mr. Lanz spoke from Isaiah 35 about the fact that being focused on Jesus turns our deserts in gardens, opens spiritual truths, and lets us walk with joy, security and fellowship.
Did you know that every week we have one lunch that is Korean food? Thanks to Mrs. Lim and other parents and friends who help with the cooking and provide some of the ingredients!
The Elementary students had their Spiritual Emphasis Weekend at Sandes and looked at being adopted into God's family, and how they can serve and be peace makers. There was plenty of snow for them to go sledding, which kept them busy for hours! Thanks to David and Barb Howe for leading this and taking care of the children.
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There was an informal café night last Saturday, with students performing songs, skits, dances and entertaining home-made videos.
The five Seniors (and chaperones) went on their traditional secret skip weekend. They left very early in the morning on Friday and flew to the Karachi beach. Just being warm, and relaxing and enjoying each other's company, seemed to make for a great time!
Julia, a GAP student from last year, has arrived to spend a couple of weeks here visiting and helping out. She is on her mid-year break from university in Germany.
*Alumni News* We are saddened by the news of the recent death of Russell Morton on February 12th. We join in prayer for his widow, Sue, and for their children, Alistair and Hilary, and the extended family in their bereavement. Russell, as Director of MCS, oversaw the relocation of the school to Chiang Mai, Thailand after the attack in 2002, and Sue subsequently wrote "Angels in the Rafters" telling of that traumatic time.A Service of Thanksgiving for his life will take place at St David's Cathedral, Hobart, Australia on Saturday, February 23rd.
Mark McKelvie (Class of 2008) got engaged Jan.18th! He writes: My fiancé's name is Lindsey Macleod and she is from Nova Scotia, Canada. Currently I am doing my masters in Public Health at Memorial University of Newfoundland Canada.Lindsey is a teacher doing math and PE here in St. John's, Canada. As for future plans, we are not quite sure. I have applied to medical school here, so if I get in we would be staying here for the next little while. However, if that does not work out, we will probably move to anywhere we can both get jobs. Other than that we are not sure what the future holds, but we trust that God has good things in store!
MCSNewsletter #17
January 31 - February 6, 2013
We had a snow day this week! Classes were cancelled for the day, so students were able to play in the snow, as well as have organized games and study time. It was snowing and very windy, and the main road had not been plowed, so it could have been dangerous for students and staff to get to school. There was about 2 feet of snow. A very large tree had fallen across the road and it took down some of the power and phone lines. By the next day, when we walked to school, the road had been plowed up to the tree on each side, and the sun was out! Sarah is pictured here to give you an idea of the size of the tree!
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MCS is a mixture of fun, learning and spiritual growth, and this is reflected in the following notes.
In our Chapel Uncle Harry showed an entertaining video that he had taken in the year 2000! It showed the Elementary skit and giving out of awards at the end of the year. There were a few faces we recognized that are current students but were pre-school then, like Naemi, HyoJi, Joel, and James! There were some in it that graduated in the last few years, like Phil, Asif, Sully, Daniel, Ashley, Duncan, ChanYang, Samuel, Hanna, Jonathan, Josua and Micah. It was fun seeing them at such a young age! It is good to look back at all the years that God has faithfully provided for MCS. The students were reminded that they are currently making history and are an important part of the legacy of MCS!
Mr. Wiley was the speaker for the Senior High Spiritual Emphasis Weekend at Sandes. Their theme was, "Back to the Basics." Discussions centered on personal faith, forgiveness, Sabbath rest, purity, personal devotions and contentment.
They also enjoyed dinner and free time in Murree.
Also over the weekend, the Junior High girls made a trip to Islamabad for fun and shopping, and the boys went to breakfast in Murree, then walked around Pindi point. The Elementary went for a walk in the forest.
Recently, the Elementary spent the day in Islamabad. It looks like they really enjoyed the park!
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In our Church service, Mr. Miller shared the story of Abraham's obedience when he offered his son, Isaac. We learned that we must obey quickly. God's tests reveal what is in our hearts. Then, taking communion, we meditated on how God sacrificed His Son for us!
Niklas arrived from Germany to help at MCS for the next 6 weeks. He is a university student studying to be a teacher. So, now he is helping with teaching English in the Elementary and doing supervision of study halls. He will fill in while teachers are away at their conference at the end of the month. He has a love for music and plays the electric guitar and drums. He is looking forward to giving his testimony in boarding devotions and youth group. Using these skills in some type of mission work is his future goal!
LATE NOTE: The Senior Class skipped today! (Friday) This annual trip is a very important MCS tradition! However, they did not get away undetected - the 11th graders caught them leaving in the very early morning hours! This earns them a dinner hosted by the Seniors! More news next week!
MCS Newsletter #16
January 24-30, 2013 The new semester is under way with a variety of regular activities, such as Middle School Basketball practices (getting ready for their tournament this month), Choir practices (getting ready for their trip to Muscat for a festival this month) and Drama rehearsals (preparing for their performance April 6). We are grateful to the coaches and teachers who work hard to teach students the necessary skills for these events that will also teach them important life lessons!
There are some Houseparent changes this semester. Barb and David Howe are taking care of the four Elementary students (plus their own 4!) and Miss Kosek is doing the Senior High Girls. Thanks to Catherine, Elisabeth and Mrs. Yoon for helping for the first Semester!
Grade 9 has been studying population in Geography recently. They made models to show their understanding of population growth and change.
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We celebrated Australia this week, with our Aussies telling us a lot about their country
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! Uncle Colin and David shared in Chapel about their history and famous sports figures. There were some pictures on the walls showing beautiful scenery, like warm beaches! From posters, we could also learn about the 5 very unique states in this huge country. The dinner and barn dance on Saturday was something we had been really looking forward to! January 26th is Australia Day, when many people there have barbecues and head to the warm beaches. We tried to copy them by wearing informal plaid shirts and having food from the "barbie". The tables were decorated with colorful flags and menus.
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We learned how to build an Aussie burger, with a hilarious demonstration from Miss Warwick and Auntie Heather; what Veggie mite tasted like L; and what a Lamington was! Catherine gave a trivia challenge among the tables. We learned that the emu is Australia's tallest bird, the dingo is a wild dog, a dunny is a toilet, damper is bread, snags are sausages, and thongs are sandals! Later the winners of the quiz were awarded a tray of assorted meats - Aussies love their meat! Then we moved to the gym, which was decorated with red, white and blue decorations and hay bales to give it a ‘barn' feeling.
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We learned some circle and line dances, and also had other contests like hitting a football. Jonathan won that contest by sending it the farthest! It was a fun celebration and we thank all of our Aussie friends for helping us experience a little bit of their culture!
Mr. Detsch spoke in church from Ecclesiastes about the lessons we can learn from Solomon. If we depend on things or popularity or pleasure to make us feel fulfilled, we will end up with an empty life of regrets.
The ten students who took the SAT exam recently at ISOI came back feeling fairly confident that they had done their best. Now they can focus on the AP exams which will be in April!
The results of the Pakistani Math Challenge the students took part in last November finally came in, so in a recent chapel the winners were announced and given a certificate. Juhwan had the most points from Elementary, DongHyuk won from grade 7, JuHee from grade 8, Shawn from grade 9, Calvin from grade 10, Karuna from grade 11, and David won for overall total number of points! We will be having the World Maths Day in March!
Our Principal, Miss Warwick, led teachers in another informative staff meeting, stressing ways we can better help students learn according to their individual learning styles.
*Alumni News* Another Engagement! Wesley Carpenter (Class of 2006) surprised Esther Stock (Class of 2007) last November with his proposal by Lake Erie! He writes: Currently I am living and working for Liberty University's Aviation Maintenance School in Virginia, and Esther has a nursing job at a hospital in Canton Ohio. So right now we get together every 2 weeks. It's a 7 hour drive, but not for much longer now. We are getting married on July 20th in Erie Pennsylvania in Esther's church, and then we will be moving to Lynchburg Virginia where I live and Esther will be looking for a new job down here. Congratulations to you both, and to your great families! We wish you all the best!
MCS Newsletter #15 January 13 - 23, 2013
We are very thankful to have all the students arrive back safely after the winter break! A few were late because of protests in their area, but all others arrived on time and on dry roads! The staff also arrived back after their visits to countries as far away as New Zealand, Australia, England, Ireland, Germany, Canada and the USA!
We had a time of prayer during our Chapel on Friday to pray for the ministries of the parents of students here. It is good that the students can share their concerns for their families. We also prayed for the Proctor family, as they have gone to New Zealand. We will miss Ben here very much!
Uncle Harry used the story of Joseph in our worship service as an example of allowing God to mold us and use us in whatever circumstances we find ourselves.
Here are a few photos from the Christmas play that the Elementary students did just before the break.Actors are: Heather, Jaban, HyoSuk, Paul, JiReh, Ricky, Sarah, Juhwan and Miss Eggemann
Both the Junior High and Senior High came over to Sandes to enjoy the slippery snow and the warm Sauna last weekend!
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*Alumni News* Elisha Stock (Class of 2008) and Crystal Drogorub from Ionia, Michigan got engaged overlooking the Sea of Galilee right before Christmas. They plan to get married August 3rd, attend Bible School for a year, and then join MAF as missionaries. Elisha is currently working as a pilot for an aerial photography company doing 3D mapping. Congratulations!
MCS Newsletter #14
November 29 - Dec 13, 2012
Here are is a sample of things that have been going on in classes and around the school recently: My 8th grade Christian Studies class finished their term projects from our study of the New Testament. They can be very proud of their finished products. They created games, comic books, a magazine, a newspaper, and story books. They shared their work with the Elementary and 7th grade students.
The Grade 9 Science class made posters of biomes like grasslands, desserts and rainforests. It was nice to have these decorating the hallway.
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Mr. Healey's CDT class made some Christmas decorations for the dining room that we can all enjoy. Since they are crafted out of wood, they will be here for years to come! Thank you!
Students studied and took their Semester Exams and teachers worked long hours to get them marked and reports written at the end of the term.
Because of a gift, new boilers and central heating radiators were installed in guest rooms, the basement apartment and the dispensary!
At a recent chapel, Uncle Hans, and Benedikt brought up the boys' volleyball team that went to Dhaka in October. A short slide show of their trip was presented along with a Sportsmanship Award, of which we all can be very proud!
Then the choir opened our time of meditation with a beautiful song. "Let All Mortal Flesh Keep Silent," written in the 4th century. The 1st Advent candle meditation was given by Darcy and Laura Albers. Prophecies point to Jesus as the King but also as the Suffering Servant. Laura related that her feelings about the birth of Jesus take on new meaning as she awaits her own baby's birth. She can better understand Mary's fear, praise and trust. We can all accept that He is in control and we can say, "I am the servant of the Lord!" In church, Eddy Lanz spoke to us about the names of Jesus in Isaiah. How thankful we are that He is Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace!
There were 26 students and several staff that were involved in the Middle School Soccer and Volleyball tournaments at ISOI. Many practices were needed to learn and practice their skills. I will have results and photos in the next newsletter.
The annual all-school Christmas party was a great success! The dining room was brightly decorated, and even included a Christmas tree. Costumes are always fun to see! Students were dressed as candy canes, Santa's helpers, Santa's bag, and brightly wrapped presents. A delicious dinner was served and games were played around the tables. This was followed by more games like ‘Pass the Parcel' and ‘Knights, Horses, and Cavaliers'. There was a musical number and gifts from ‘Secret Santas' were passed out. Thanks to all who prepared this fun evening!
In our last Chapel, Dr. Scott led the band and choir in several pieces of music. The 3rd candle of Advent was lit with the help of the Elementary students.
Our last church service was held at Camp Mubarak. The evening began with refreshments around the campfire while our musicians played and the choir sang in the background. Mr. Simon's family lit the last Advent candle and Mr. Ashkenaz spoke on the proclamation of Christ's coming. We also proclaim Him with our lives. A delicious dinner followed. Thanks to Mr. Simon and Apphia and family for hosting us for this special time of celebration!
The band and choir spent one day away from school, performing Christmas songs at ISOI and St. Joseph's hospital in Islamabad. There were many positive comments in appreciation of our visits. St. Margaret's church came one evening and sang Christmas songs for us.
The Elementary students performed a play about Jesus' birth which included several songs and chances to play instruments. Parents, teachers and siblings enjoyed their simple drama highlighting the humble birth. Maybe I can get some pictures for the next newsletter.
*Alumni news* Samuel Lammi ('08) writes that he and Daniel ('08), Jenny ('07) and Joel ('06) will be meeting other MK's at Urbana Missions Conference in St. Louis, Missouri after Christmas. Please pray for a blessed time of fellowship, seeking the Lord's direction in our lives to live out His mission globally, and building on our experience as MK's.
MCS Newsletter #13 November 22-28, 2012
In the Home Ec classes, Mrs. Holloway is helping the students learn many practical skills. They are creating useful items that may even be given as gifts! They have made insulated oven mitts, and next, will be cutting old t-shirts into strips and then weaving them into oven mitts too!
Aman Matthias
JuYoung
Our Music night was a treat as we were caught up in the many moods of music! There was classical Chopin and Beethoven, jazz numbers, Christmas favorites, and an entertaining Disney medley!
The 8th grade music class did a great job with their rock/jazz song.
Our band and choir also performed, along with students who are taking individual lessons. There were many piano and vocal solos and other instrumental numbers from students that just love music!
One favorite was a surprise Bavarian dance performed by the GAPS who were even dressed in traditional costume!We were impressed by two other dance groups; two girls doing a jazzy dance, and the other, a group of 12 dancing to Dupatta Tera No Rungadar, a song about colorful dupattas. Their well rehearsed productions made it look so easy! The Drama Club did a two act play complete with humor and a happy ending. Thanks to everyone for their hours of practice and willingness to share their talents with us!
And special thanks to Kitty Holloway, Mira Lim, Dr. Scott, Amy Lynn and Naomi Kosek, our music and drama teachers!
Our guest speaker for Chapel was Dan Baetz from Canada. He contrasted Jacob and Esau. One sacrificed everything for instant gratification, while the other w