period. As she notes, “Had it not been for the kindness of the school mothers and members of Berowra Baptist Church, my mother would not have survived. They were kindness itself.” Commencement and initial provision from God On the first day of term, there were 34 children enrolled, which allowed the board to hire a first-year teacher for the mornings, leaving Mavis to handle the K-6 classes in the afternoon. Even though school funding took time to arrive, God still provided for every need. Mavis remembers “A board member knew of a school discarding unwanted readers and other materials, and I was able to borrow exercise books and supplies from a school where I had connections.” As more and more families enrolled and resource provision normalised, the borrowed items were returned and extra staff employed. During that first term, the school was inspected by a Departmental District Inspector, the official opening was held, and Easter celebrated. This reinforced their belief in God’s love and sacrifice, as stated in John 3:16, “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.” By the end of the year, rather than holding a Presentation Night, they celebrated with a Thanksgiving event, acknowledging the divine support received. Mavis remembers that “looking back, we could have simply celebrated surviving the first year, but we recognised that God had carried us through on eagles’ wings, as described in Exodus 19:4. With growing enrolments, it was clear that Berowra Christian School had a promising future.” Over the years, the school has continued to grow, with more buildings added, and always supported by faith-filled staff and parents. From this experience, Steve shares two valuable lessons: “God’s Timing and Trust: God’s timing is perfect, and He can be trusted. In the mid-1980s, families sought genuine biblical teaching amid various challenges. Support from political figures, council staff, and church leadership was crucial, and my family’s bravery and sacrifice set us on a path that continues today. God’s Ways Work: Following God’s ways leads to success. Psalm 127:1 states, “Unless the Lord builds the house, the 43
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