The article on Christian schools in the last NZ Baptist inspired me to write to you. I live in the “Bible belt” of Wellington (according to an Auckland visitor). I am very proud of this and of our local college – Tawa College.

If my husband had not met two wonderful Christian young people at Tawa College he would not be the wonderful Christian person he is today. I think of the present Tawa College principal, Murray Lucas and his wife Margaret, who hold an evening Bible study that is full of young people from the college.

We have at least six College staff members attend our local church as well as a large number of state school teachers. I praise God for these wonderful teachers and the influence they bring to our community.

Over the last 30 years we have always had a Christian Head student at Tawa College. Many Christian students have been in leadership roles and gone on to take Christian leadership with the community, government and other jobs.

I praise God for my family, sister, brother-in-law, nieces, their husbands, and extended family who are teachers in State schools. I praise God for the Christian teachers who have influenced my family. We need more of them.

You have struck a very personal view from me but I am all for State schools and Christian kids and teachers, and praise God for them. May they continue to flourish.

– Helen Butcher
Tawa