MERGE
	Providence Christian Academy is intentional about developing a lifestyle of unselfish service and impacting the world. Our service department, MERGE, is passionate about preparing tomorrow’s leaders to re-present Christ to the world. It equips and encourages students, their families, and teachers to use their spiritual gifts and talents, through their relationship with Jesus Christ, to serve the world He came to redeem. Whether we serve during the school or workday, or among the church, in the community or around the globe, we desire to lift up Jesus so He may draw all people to Himself. Students in grades 8 and 9 are required to complete a minimum of 10 hours and Grades 10-12 are required to complete a minimum of 16 hours for the 2011-2012 academic year. At least five of these hours must be done during the first semester. For students who anticipate a full academic load and great demands on their after school hours due to athletics, church, work, etc… all sixteen service hours may be performed during the summer then submitted before the end of the first semester’s deadline. One aim of this program is to develop a cognizance for ministry opportunities amid each student’s daily walk and facilitating a consistent use of their gifts. Most service earns one hour MERGE credit for one hour of ministry. We encourage students to begin serving in summer and early in the school year when time and opportunities are more plentiful. The MERGE webpage outlines weekly, monthly, and one-time projects to facilitate finding a good fit for service. This information will also be found under Service Opportunities below and on the MERGE display in the foyer. Students are encouraged to initiate service ventures and include peers and families as they work. If students select their own project, they must meet MERGE guidelines, and complete a MERGE Proposal Form (available in the right margin of this page). Upon receiving approval from the MERGE coordinator, work on the project may begin. Proposal forms may be submitted through the High School Office. MERGE Coordinator: Jenny Thomas