Gratitude Chapel 2024

"At the Girls' College, we hold service as one of our highest callings, living out our commitment to belong, to learn, to lead, and—importantly—to serve. Through service, we discover fulfilment, meaning, and true happiness. It is in reaching out to others that we find our greatest strength and our deepest purpose."

On Wednesday we gathered in our beautiful chapel for our final service of the year. We had the wonderful opportunity to celebrate our incredible Girls’ College community of parents, guardians and friends. We are truly grateful for this community who have given of their time, talents and treasure over the last year. In celebration of these wonderful pillars we have made a contribution on their behalf to Malaika Orphanage based in Braamfontein. We were equally as moved when Mr Juma, founder of Malaika Orphanage,  spoke about the work they do in the streets of Braam, and how they grateful for community partnerships.

In the same breathe of gratitude, our head of school, Dr James, celebrated all the short and long term staff who will be leaving the Girls’ College at the end of the year. In a closing statement Dr James quoted "As we gather here for our final Chapel Service of the school year, let us take a moment to reflect on the profound blessings of service and the spirit of giving. In 2 Corinthians 9:6-7, we are reminded of a powerful truth:

"Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver."

This scripture invites us to embrace generosity as a heartfelt act—one that is not only about giving but about giving with joy and purpose.
In a world that often elevates self-interest, it is both humbling and inspiring to be part of a community like ours—a community that values selflessness and is dedicated to making a difference in the lives of others.

Today, we are privileged to welcome honoured guests—individuals whose contributions to our school and our wider community have left an indelible mark. Your dedication, generosity, and unwavering support are beyond measure, and we are profoundly grateful.
This past weekend, we witnessed a shining example of this spirit of service as the Girls’ College hosted a heartwarming Christmas lunch for over 300 children at Mpho’s Kitchen in Alex. The event was nothing short of extraordinary—a celebration of joy, love, and hope.
This remarkable act of generosity was made possible by many hands and hearts within our community. To those who donated food, wrapped gifts, and worked tirelessly behind the scenes, your contributions are deeply appreciated.

A special word of thanks goes to: Ms Ngiba, whose visionary leadership brought this project to life. To all the staff, students, and parents who gave of their time and energy, thank you for creating a moment of joy for so many children who might otherwise have little to celebrate this Christmas.

This weekend’s efforts remind us that service is about more than just giving—it’s about partnership, collaboration, and the courage to rise above our own needs to answer a higher calling. As we approach the end of this year, may we carry forward the lessons of gratitude and generosity that have defined our journey. Let us continue to sow generously, give cheerfully, and serve with open hearts.
I would like to end off with a quote by Canadian Poet, Bianca Sparacino -

"Be the person who cares. Be the person who makes an effort, who loves without hesitation. Be the person who never shies away from the depth of their feeling, or the intensity of their hope.
Be the person who believes – in the softness of the world, in the goodness of other people, in the beauty of being open, untethered and trusting.
Be the person who takes a chance, who refuses to hide. Be the person who makes people feel seen, the person who shows up.
Trust me when I say – the person who cares. Because the world doesn’t need any more carelessness, any more disregard; because there is nothing stronger that someone who continues to stay soft in a world that hasn’t always been kind to them”.

Thank you, and may God bless you all abundantly.