By Jamie Dalton | Several years ago, a vision was cast to families of Greater Atlanta Christian School (GACS) as part of a $29.7 million capital campaign. A place was needed in the heart of the campus where all could see that Jesus was at the center of the school.
Many stepped forward and gave generously. This past December, GACS’s new Cross Tower and Baptismal were dedicated.
Sponsoring the Cross Tower and Baptismal in the early stages were GACS parents Jane and Andy Adams of Gwinnett County. They were instrumental in making it a reality. Another family in particular, grandparents of GACS students, Harriet and J.C. Rash of Gwinnett County, helped bring the Cross Tower and Baptismal to life. Adjacent to the cross tower is a large plaza that was given by GACS parents Hayley and Mike Strickland and GACS grandparents Sandra and Clyde Strickland.
They all were inspired by the Cross tower for the message it will bring to not only the GACS students and families but to the surrounding community as it can be seen from Indian Trail Road. Engraved scriptures on the stepping stones were selected by students from each school level, as well as Andy and Jane Adams.
GACS President Dr. David Fincher shares why this was one of the focal projects of the capital campaign: “When people step onto our campus and see the Cross Tower at its center, it is our desire for them to know immediately to whom we belong. It’s a beautiful way to daily express that Jesus and the cross are the very heart of GAC.”
Students also met with Dr. Fincher to offer suggestions on how to fully incorporate the new area into daily campus activities and school traditions. One student shares: “We are grateful for the many people who have helped make the center of campus a reflection of the heart of GACS. Because of their generous support, the mission of GACS will continue to thrive.”
In another GACS story recently, four school vocalists, all native of the Atlanta area, have been selected for the All State Chorus in Athens, on February 25-27. All State Chorus is sponsored by the Georgia Music Educators Association (GMEA).
From left are Gavin McDonnell, Ethan McDonnell, Lacey Shaffer and Madelyn Shaffer.
Students from throughout the state begin a series of auditions in November. Initial auditions include scales, sight reading, and a theory test. Second round becomes more rigorous, performing 6-7 pieces of choral music before the judges. The finalists are evaluated on portions of each piece and then selected for the All State Chorus.
The Senior High and Junior High choirs rehearse with the best clinicians from across the country beginning February 25 and offer a concert at the Classic Center in Athens on February 27.
Those selected from GACS include:
- Gavin McDonnell, 9th grade, Senior High Tenor 1;
- Ethan McDonnell, 9th grade, Senior High Tenor;
- Lacey Shaffer, 10th grade, Senior High Alto 2; and
- Madelyn Shaffer, 8th grade, Junior High All State Alto
Follow Us