Once upon a time, in a faraway land, a group of parents had a dream. In that dream, they envisioned a school where all lessons, discussions and interactions were based on Biblical principles. That once upon a time was 1981, and the faraway land is 206 Murphys Road, Flat Bush, Auckland.
The story I am sharing is the beginning of Tyndale Park Christian School. The story of faith, sacrifice, and dedication has shaped the school and transformed countless lives over the past four decades. Forty-two years ago, a group of devoted Christian parents stood on the land surrounded by vast farmlands and started the school with 16 students. They set out with a mission statement to assist parents by providing a Christ-centred education that encourages academic excellence and Christian service to the glory of God.
Let us break the mission statement into three points.
Point 1: Created for His Glory
In the beginning, God, the Creator of the universe, moulded humanity from the dust, breathing life into us. Genesis 1:27 (KJV) declares, "So God created man in his own image ..." As His image-bearers, we are to reflect God's glory in our existence. Even though we are so different from each other in every way, we should reflect God's glory in what we do.
Imagine an artist creating a masterpiece and signing it with pride. We are God's masterpiece and signed with His love and purpose. Isaiah 43:7 (KJV) affirms, "... for I [The Lord ] have created him [us] for My glory, I have formed him; yea, I have made him." We were created to display God's glory, to radiate His character and love to the world. Sometimes, we may not feel that way; we may not feel that we are special; we may not feel that we are loved. We are created as a unique individual because God loves us.
Point 2: Show Excellence for His Glory
Think of a talented musician pouring their heart and soul into a performance. In 1 Corinthians 10:31 (KJV), it's stated, "Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God." Our pursuit of academic excellence is an offering to God, a melody that glorifies Him in every note of success and achievement.
Point 3: Serve Others for His Glory
Picture a devoted servant eager to please their master. In Matthew 5:16 (KJV), Jesus teaches, "Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven." Through our service and love, we illuminate God's glory in a world hungry for His light. In all we do—our studies, interactions, and service—we are vessels for God's glory. We reflect His love, grace, and truth. Our lives are an orchestra, with each note resonating with the grand composition of His glory.
As we conclude the school year, I wish to express my gratitude to God and thanks to the founders, friends of the school, parents, staff and students of 2023. After taking a break during the Christmas season, let us continue the vision and mission of the founders who started this school for their children and future generations. They believed in a school where biblical teaching would be at the core of every lesson, every interaction, and every act of service. I want us to continue to carry the torch into 2024 so that every student who walks through our gates receives a Christ-centred education that glorifies God. Remember that we were created for His glory, so let us show academic excellence and serve others for His glory.
Blessings
Prasad Patchigalla
Principal