Be the Light Club at ANHS has brought religious inclusivity onto campus through their efforts to spread kindness and compassion for one another with God. The club was established at ANHS this year and has already made a profound impact.
The aim of Be the Light Club is to help people grow their faith and relationship with God. The officers of the club encourage anyone to join their meetings despite how close or distant they are in their walk with God.
The President of the club is Mariah Lewis (11) and the Vice President is Zeke McStay (11). Together, they formed the club in belief that real life change and growth happens through youth leadership. They also aim to create a world where everyone has someone to do life with.
During their club meetings, the officers of the club all take turns making messages about God to share to their club members. These topics discuss aspects of God that they believe should be talked about in order to build a stronger relationship with him.
In Be the Light’s last club meeting, Lewis discussed the importance of standing out as Christians. She made references to the book of John and Philippians in the Bible to assert her point that Christians should be leaders and not try to hide in society.
Lewis shares, “As Christians, our calling in this world is to influence others and spread God’s word. We aren’t meant to be ashamed of God and our belief, even though the world tries to tear down our faith.”
Be the Light has created a safe place for people who have questions about God or are willing to get to know him better. The club has helped create a stronger community at school by building a group that is there for each other and can grow together in their communal faith in God.
Students are helped mentally and physically at the club meetings by interacting with one another and acknowledging each other’s perspectives on God. By hearing what other people have to say about these topics, students can feel more comfortable and validated by having a supportive environment.
Faith and religion can play an extremely important role in the lives of students at any school. It influences values and ethics. These elements are highly incorporated daily while student’s interact and learn at school.
Since faith influences the overall lifestyles of many people, Be the Light Club has benefitted the school environment by allowing an outlet for students to express their faith and emotions without the fear of being judged or misunderstood. Be the Light additionally promotes religious diversity as there are many student’s with different practices and values depending on their religion.
Be the Light Club hosts meetings every two weeks on Thursdays in room 502 during lunch.
McStay says, “‘You are the light because you are made in God’s image.’ Everyone is welcome to come join us. Every person in the club is highly valued and makes a difference.”
