Everyone from Wellspring Academy was rejoicing in the blessings of another successful year. That alone gives plenty of reason to thank God, but it was obvious during the party that their biggest reason to celebrate was the gift of Jesus Christ.

After opening the festivity with prayer, Foundation Year, Grade 1, and Grade 2 students sang their little hearts out in praise to God. The third grade class followed with their presentation: a special re-enactment of the “Christmas story”. The whole cast was present, including Mary, Joseph, the shepherds, Wiseman, angels, and even King Herod - I was surprised that real sheep didn’t appear! The play was a beautiful reminder of the humble way our Saviour came into the world.

Next the fourth graders led us through Rwandan Christmas songs as several of the young ladies treated the crowd by performing traditional Rwandan Dancing. I can still hear the beat of the drum in time with their stomping feet. All of the students did a terrific job and it was obvious that they had worked very hard to prepare for this special event. Just when we thought it was coming to a close, Father Christmas came out with his bag of goodies to share with the children. Before the treats were given to the students, they had time to share with him some lessons they learned from Christmas. “Love one another”, “Obey parents and teachers”, and “Pray for friends and families” were some of the answers that were given.

To bring the party to a close, selected students presented hand made cards they had created to say thank you to the Head Teacher, board members, Wellspring Foundation, and their teachers and parents. Students also served each other by bringing around trays overflowing with snacks that had been contributed by the students themselves. Christmas music and laughter mixed together as people chatted together before saying goodbye for the holidays. My heart was bursting because of the love, service, and joy I had witnessed in the hearts of the students. What a blessing that these kids have a school where they can learn about God’s love and celebrate Christ’s birth for what it truly is: the most precious gift of all.