Our middle and high school students were blessed with a powerful and uplifting message from Mr. Brett Kime, our Facilities Director. We were also thrilled to welcome our fifth graders to their very first secondary chapel, marking a special milestone in their Eagle journey. Opportunities like these remind us of the importance of intentionally preparing our students for the next chapter.

Mr. Kime described himself as a father, husband, friend, CrossFit coach, and outdoorsman. Despite the titles and things we know about ourselves, he pointed out how we still have a hard time grasping who we truly are, especially in a world filled with comparisons and pressures. Young people today often feel the need to define themselves through achievements, relationships, social media, or grades. He asked a thought-provoking question: Who would you be if all those worldly things vanished?

So where should we turn for our identity? Mr. Kime emphasized that true identity begins with the One who created us. Our worth and purpose are found in Christ alone.

“For you formed my inward parts;
    You knitted me together in my mother's womb.
I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made.
Wonderful are your works;
    My soul knows it very well.”  
Psalm 139:13-4

Mr. Kime exclaimed: “We gotta look to Jesus!”
 
“For by Him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through Him and for Him.” Colossians 1:16

Before God created everything, He thought of each of us.

“Even as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before him. In love, He predestined us for adoption to Himself as sons through Jesus Christ, according to the purpose of His will.” Ephesians 1:4-5
 
You are royalty, a child of the Most High God!

“The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs—heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, provided we suffer with Him in order that we may also be glorified with Him.” Romans 8:16-17

Mr. Kime assured the students that God chose each of them to be here—He wanted them from the very beginning. He encouraged them to remember three powerful identity statements:

1. I am chosen.
2. I am loved.
3. I belong to God.

It’s crucial to hold tightly to these truths—especially in a world that can feel overwhelming and uncertain. Young people today face unique challenges, from social pressures to self-doubt, but holding onto our identity in Christ brings strength and hope. As Jesus said, “I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world, you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)

Sharing a personal story about a recent challenge when much of his world-defined identity felt stripped away, Mr. Kime said, "The only thing that had eternal meaning was my identity in God.”

Mr. Kime wrapped up the chapel by having each student write a negative label they have placed on themselves, past or present. Those cards were collected and redistributed to illustrate that we tend to be harder on ourselves than we are on others. He suggested labels filled with hope and truth:

• Chosen
• Loved
• Designed
• Adopted
• God’s masterpiece

The labels we choose to live by shape our lives. When we let the world define us, we feel confined and limited. But when we embrace the identity God gives us—chosen, loved, designed, adopted, His masterpiece—we break free from those chains and can fully pursue His purpose for our lives.

We are grateful to Mr. Kime for sharing such a heartfelt and powerful message, reminding us that our true identity is found in Christ. 

Fourth graders delivered a remarkable share chapel performance this week! The audience was captivated and engaged through every scene as the students presented three skits from the Bible: The Fiery Furnace (Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, Daniel 3:16-28), The Attack of the Marching Band (Joshua 6:12-21), and David's Mighty Men (1 Chronicles 11 and 2 Samuel 23). Their theatrical work stood out, skillfully weaving humor—like clever jokes and intentional mispronunciations of names—with an important message. The hope and encouragement of God’s Word rang clear, demonstrating the many ways God loves and cares for His people. Representing David’s Mighty Men, one warrior inspired us all: “We used our gifts, our courage, and our muscles…I mean our strength…to fight for God’s people. And you can do the same!”

A heartfelt thank you to our fourth-grade teachers, Mrs. Knight and Mrs. Rivas, for their support and guidance throughout the entire production—from memorizing lines to creating props and staging each scene. Fourth graders, your creativity, teamwork, and energy made the chapel unforgettable. You not only brought laughter but also powerfully showed how every story in the Bible points to Jesus and His amazing love for us. And to our wonderful elementary audience, your attentiveness and enthusiasm elevated the experience for everyone involved!

"As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace: whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies—in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ." 1 Peter 4:10-11

Our favorite storyteller and librarian, Mrs. Mary Frances King, shared a special story at our combined Philippians chapel today. To wrap up a month-long focus on the character trait, Calm, she shared a funny (and scary) personal narrative about getting her leg stuck in the bleachers when she was younger and how, in that moment, she missed the opportunity to remember that Jesus was right there with her. She followed that up with reading a special book, The Storm That Stopped. The book reminded us that Jesus is always with us in every storm we encounter in life, and that we don’t need to worry because He’s in control. Mrs. King encouraged us by saying, “Lots of storms hit our lives, but these stories remind us that we can choose to be calm because Jesus is with us. We can  trust that God is bigger than the storm and have peace because He’s in control.” Let’s remember to face each day with courage and calm, knowing we are never alone, thanks to our Savior!

“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire, you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you.” Isaiah 43:2

This week, it was the fifth grade’s turn to lead Share Chapel. Students from Ms. Hancock’s and Mrs. Fallon’s classes took responsibility for the program, presenting the Bible passages they have memorized throughout the year. After each recitation, they reflected on the significance of each verse and shared practical ways these words could shape their lives.

They kicked off the chapel with our theme verse for the year, “What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?” (Romans 8:31). One student reflected, “I think we learned that verse so when faced with a hard time in our life, we can say this verse to ourselves.  It shows that God is always with us.”

Other passages included:

• Psalm 135:5-7 - “I think we were asked to memorize this passage so we would do our best to follow God and treat Him with respect.  I like that it says, ‘Our Lord is greater than all Gods.’  That tells me that no one is in a higher position than Him.”

• Psalm 145:8-21 - “’The Lord is trustworthy.’  I know that I can always trust Him.”

• Ephesians 4:29-32 - “We should only say things that build people up and never say things that tear people down.”

• James 1:16-17, 19-20, 22, and 25 - “This verse is significant to me because it teaches us that God does not change. God is the same today as He was in the beginning.”

• James 3:5, 7-10, and 13 - “God’s faithfulness will protect us wherever we go.”

• Ephesians 6:1-3, 6-8 - “We should serve God with joy.”

From their earliest years in elementary school (and even preschool!), our students are encouraged not only to memorize Scripture but to hide it in their hearts. While memorization sharpens the mind, our greatest hope is that these verses become lifelong anchors of faith—offering comfort, wisdom, and guidance whenever they are needed. As Psalm 119 beautifully expresses: "I have hidden your Word in my heart that I might not sin against You" (verse 11), and “Your Word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (verse 105). We are deeply grateful for a Savior who gives us a map, guiding us each step of the way as we pursue Him and His purpose for our lives.

Thank you, fifth graders, for setting a wonderful example of diligence in Scripture memorization and intentionality in applying and living out God’s Word each day!

Chapel was a wonderful celebration of the hard work and dedication shown by our third-grade students as they prepared for the annual Live Wax Museum. Each student selected and read a biography of a Christian hero, past or present. Dressed as their chosen hero, they shared the inspiring stories and impact these individuals made for Jesus. Later in the afternoon, the students brought their heroes to life in the Live Wax Museum. Each with a bell, they stood ready to come to life to share interesting facts and lessons about the lives they researched.

This special Heritage tradition reminds us that even small acts of faith and obedience can lead to great outcomes for God’s kingdom. Third-grade teacher Mrs. Gaeta opened the chapel by asking us to think about what truly makes someone a “Christian hero.” She reminded us that the true mark of a Christian hero is not talent, but the willingness to trust and follow God faithfully. The heroes represented on stage were not superheroes, but ordinary people who responded to God’s call. We, too, can show perseverance and faith in our own lives, making a difference for Jesus in our world.

Thank you, third graders, for your enthusiasm and effort. Your hard work has truly inspired us all to walk in the footsteps of these Christian heroes! Thank you, Mrs. Gaeta and Mrs. Benzel, for guiding the students so intentionally through this incredible experience!

"Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord." Colossians 3:23

This week in chapel, our secondary students were encouraged by Mr. Saunders’ (HCA Head of School) message about Jesus in the garden of Gethsemane (Matthew 26:36-46). He shared how Jesus faced deep sorrow knowing what was to come, reminding us that Jesus knows what it’s like to feel overwhelmed and that He was both fully God and fully human. Even Jesus wanted His friends nearby during tough times. He began with 11 disciples, then invited His closest friends, Peter, James, and John, to go further with Him. Mr. Saunders explained that when we face hard times, we should lean on a few trusted people for support. Not everyone needs to know, or can handle, our struggles—often a small circle is best.

In the most important step of the process, Jesus showed us the value of taking our worries to God. Mr. Saunders encouraged us to be honest and open with God, because that’s when we experience His comfort and draw closer to Him, just as Jesus did in the garden. Jesus woke up Peter after he fell asleep while Jesus was praying. Jesus knew Peter would soon face a big challenge—he would deny knowing Jesus three times- so Jesus wanted Peter to stay close. Mr. Saunders reminded us that God uses these moments in our lives to help us grow stronger. Even when we make mistakes or feel weak, God is at work in us, shaping our hearts.

Thank you, Mr. Saunders, for reminding us to trust Jesus through both the peaks and the valleys.

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:6-7

Our middle and high school students received an encouraging and challenging message from Mr. Benzel. He reflected on the lyrics from the hymn “Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing”: “Prone to wander, Lord, I feel it. Prone to leave the God I love.” Mr. Benzel reminded us that lulls in life can make us drift from faithfulness and the God we love. Sometimes we’re not spiritually awake due to boredom, exhaustion, or a sense of distance from the Lord. He emphasized that we’re most vulnerable to wandering when we’re isolated, rather than in community with others who know and love Jesus.

Drawing from 1 Thessalonians 5, Mr. Benzel encouraged us to support one another, practice self-control, put on the armor of God, and show love to God and others. We’re grateful for Mr. Benzel’s reminder to seek Jesus always and to remain especially diligent in seasons when our faith feels stagnant.

Third-grade teacher Mrs. Benzel wrapped up a month focused on the character trait of gentleness at chapel yesterday. Gentleness, she explained, is speaking truth with both love and respect. Mrs. Benzel highlighted that Jesus is the ultimate example of gentleness and pointed to two instances in the Bible where He demonstrated this trait.

The first example of Jesus’ gentleness comes from Luke 19, when He interacted with Zacchaeus, a sinful tax collector. Jesus showed Zacchaeus love and compassion by inviting him to come down from the tree, then shared the truth with him in the comfortable setting of Zacchaeus’ home. Mrs. Benzel explained that Jesus needed to show both love and truth to Zacchaeus, as one without the other is often not the best way.

Another example comes from John 8, when the Pharisees brought a woman caught in sin to Jesus. He challenged the crowd, saying that anyone without sin should be the first to throw a stone at her. As the only one who met this standard, Jesus showed the woman love and mercy by telling her He did not condemn her. He then followed up with truth, urging her to leave her sin behind and follow Him.

Mrs. Benzel shared that, while it is not always easy, gentleness is necessary in a world where hard conversations and situations arise. Practicing gentleness brings unity, peace, and joy.

Today, we welcomed back chapel favorite and HCA alum Mr. Jimmy Reed. As the area director for Everett/Mill Creek Young Life, Mr. Reed shared a message centered on Jacob’s dream in Genesis 28. He highlighted how God assured Jacob, saying, “I am with you and will watch over you wherever you go, and I will bring you back to this land. I will not leave you until I have done what I have promised you” (verse 15). Mr. Reed reminded us that just as God kept His promises to Jacob, He will fulfill His promises to us as well. No matter the challenges we face, God is always present and will see us through.

To illustrate his message, Mr. Reed showed a photo of a ziggurat and explained that its staircase symbolized an attempt to draw closer to God. However, because of Jesus, “we don’t have to build a staircase, climb a mountain, or be a perfect person”—we simply need to trust in Him. We are grateful to Mr. Reed for delivering such a powerful and encouraging message!

Mr. Stevens, our middle and high school principal, spoke at our weekly chapels today about the importance of building our lives on the right foundation. He used the illustration of Legos built on pillows versus a solid surface to show how critical it is to build on something strong—Jesus. Jesus is our Rock. Friends, rules, and circumstances may change, but like a rock, Christ never changes. “If He says truth matters today, it will matter forever. That’s why He’s safe to build on.”

Mr. Stevens also spoke about the inevitable pressures of life, both big and small, and reminded us that we are never alone when we trust in Jesus. Building a strong foundation takes effort—obeying, spending time in God’s Word, and praying—but with this foundation, “God is not standing far away...He is with you!”

“Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord God is an everlasting rock.” Isaiah 26:4

Thank you, Mr. Stevens, for this important reminder as we continue our year centered on the theme: ‘God is for us!’

Wednesday’s chapel focused on our January character trait: Consistency. We enjoyed hearing from Mrs. Dickinson, Secondary Administrative Assistant, as she shared how God is the ultimate example of consistency. He is unchanging and dependable. When we are consistent in our daily walk with Jesus, we reflect His character of consistency to others.

As James 1:17 reminds us, "Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows." 

We heard from Mr. Benzel, our Athletic and Spiritual Formations Director. As we prepare to cheer on the Seahawks in the Super Bowl this weekend, he pointed out how sports can unite a community. Just as the Seahawks represent Seattle, we represent Heritage—and ultimately, Christ. Mr. Benzel explained how a rock tumbler shapes, smooths, and polishes rocks. In a Christ-centered community, we help shape one another into the people God created us to be. Mr. Benzel encouraged us to work together like a rock tumbler, refining and supporting each other along the way.

"Therefore, encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing."
1 Thessalonians 5:11

Today at chapel, we were honored to welcome Mr. Cooper Fallon, husband of our 5th-grade teacher and son of our secondary science teacher, the “Mrs. Fallons.” Mr. Fallon, who serves in the children’s ministry at Northview Community Church, inspired us to reflect on why God created us. He reminded us that our purpose is to further God’s kingdom by blessing others and sharing the love of Jesus with those around us. Drawing from Matthew 4:17, he encouraged us to anticipate Jesus’ return and to embrace our mission to reach the world for Christ. Thank you, Mr. Fallon, for your powerful message today! 

Our students always delight in welcoming Pastor Phillip Kim (CrossPointe Discipleship Pastor) to chapel. This week, he shared the command from Deuteronomy 6:5 to love the Lord with all our heart, soul, and might. Pastor Phillip took us on a deep dive into what this extraordinary love truly means. He compared the relational love we have with all the people in our lives, and how we should love Jesus in a “way that’s far beyond what we have for anyone on Earth.”  

As Pastor Phillip pointed out, "we can’t love someone unless we really know them." He challenged us to deepen our knowledge of God through reading and studying His Word and spending time with Him in prayer. The Bible reminds us that if we love God, we will keep His commands (John 14:15, Matthew 22:36-40). What a wonderful encouragement to emulate Jesus' love for us and extend that love to those around us. 

We kicked off the new year with a chapel reflecting on December’s character focus: kindness. Mr. Daniel, our art and PE teacher, inspired students by sharing the importance of showing kindness through giving. He reminded us that we all need to learn and practice generosity, looking to the gift of Jesus as the ultimate example (John 3:16). Mr. Daniel shared a story about the bushmen in Botswana, who always leave water behind for the next traveler—a beautiful act of forward-thinking kindness that we can all embrace in our daily lives. Thank you, Mr. Daniel, for consistently modeling Christlike giving for our community. 

Today, we had the pleasure of welcoming back a beloved chapel guest, Mr. Garrett Shelp, Area Director for Northshore Young Life. Mr. Shelp thoughtfully shared his favorite Christmas Bible verses, John 1:1-5, and inspired students with the reminder that “God is so much more surprising and amazing than we can even imagine.” He emphasized that God has always existed, was present at the very beginning, and has a unique purpose for each of us. Through Jesus, each of us carries a light—to hold, to keep, and to share with others.

As Mr. Shelp beautifully stated, “Darkness can never extinguish the Light of God, and there is nothing we can ever do to separate us from Him.” As we approach the Christmas season and celebrate the birth of our Savior, Mr. Shelp encouraged students to remember that they are endlessly loved. “You don’t come from nothing. You come from something, and that something is love.”

Today, we held our monthly character focus combined chapel. Mrs. Fuertes, our preschool director, spoke about gratefulness. She explained that while thankfulness and gratefulness are often used interchangeably, they are actually two different things. Thankfulness is a feeling that depends on external circumstances, whereas gratefulness is an attitude that reflects our inner hearts and acknowledges everything that God has provided for us. 
She shared, “When you rely solely on thankful feelings, you stop feeling happy when something is taken away from you.” To illustrate this point, she explained that we can be thankful for our dinner, but we can be grateful for the family we share it with and for God, who continuously provides for all our needs.

Thank you, Mrs. Fuertes, for challenging us all—from our youngest students to the adults in the room—to find opportunities to remember and express gratitude each day.

"Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you."
1 Thessalonians 5:18

Today at our chapels, our elementary and secondary students heard from Mr. Matt Raney, Founder and Executive Director of Adventure Soccer. This multinational non-profit organization serves people around the world, and Matt focuses on global ministry in eSwatini, Africa. He uses soccer to reach out to the young, largely orphaned population for Jesus.

During his talk, he shared the same message with our students that he shares with the young people in eSwatini, using a soccer ball as a powerful illustration. He explained that a soccer ball is designed to be filled with just one thing. It cannot perform its function properly when filled with sand, water, plastic bags, or anything else. The only way it can bounce back is if it is filled with air. Similarly, we are designed to be filled with one thing. As Jesus tells us in John 16:33, "In the world, you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world." When we are filled with the right thing—faith and trust in Jesus—we are transformed from the inside out. "Our faith will hold us, and the harder the world pushes us down, the harder we will bounce back," thanks to our Savior!

Thank you, Mr. Raney, for sharing about your ministry and inspiring us to fill our lives with the right thing(s)!

"You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might." Deuteronomy 6:5

Today’s combined chapel was held in recognition and celebration of our veterans. Our students welcomed Mr. Rick Nenno, an HCA dad and U.S. Marine Corps veteran. Mr. Nenno shared his military journey, recounting the challenging, exciting, and rewarding experiences he encountered during training and deployment across the globe.

As he reflected on his time serving our country, he emphasized how it provided him with a sense of purpose, helped him develop leadership and service skills, fostered camaraderie with his fellow soldiers, and allowed him to grow through hardship and sacrifice.

Thank you, Mr. Nenno, for sharing your story with us today. We cannot express enough gratitude to you and all our veterans for your faithful and selfless service.

During the month of October, our students focused on the character trait of strength. Today, Mrs. Hansen spoke about this topic at our combined chapel. She reminded us that our strength ultimately comes from Jesus. We are called to love and honor God first (Deuteronomy 6:5). It is only through Him that we can face the challenges that come our way.

Mrs. Hansen encouraged us to remember this when life feels difficult: "God loves us and believes we are worth going to the cross and back!"

"He gives power to the faint, and to him who has no might he increases strength." Isaiah 40:29

 "I can do all things through him who strengthens me." Philippians 4:13

Mrs. Edler, our elementary principal, spoke at our chapels this morning. She thoughtfully shared the process of creating stained-glass art to illustrate how "God uses broken things" — like us. The broken pieces of glass represent our hurts and trials in life, but God uses those broken pieces for good and for His purpose (Romans 8:28). Just as stained glass is polished to allow light to shine through, God continually refines us so that we can shine for Jesus.

"For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them." Ephesians 2:10

We were thrilled to welcome back Mr. Chad McDaniel from World Vision today! This marks our third year partnering with World Vision as a school, and the students always look forward to his visit as he shares how small "yeses" are transforming lives through access to clean water and the life-changing message of Jesus around the globe.

This summer, Mr. McDaniel visited rural Ethiopia, where a community was preparing for new clean water sources. He encouraged our students by saying, "Because friends like you moved their feet, this community had hope knowing that clean water is coming." We are called to be givers in our world, bringing the light of Jesus everywhere we go.

Please consider saying 'yes' by joining or supporting the Heritage World Vision team as we participate in the Tacoma (Half) Marathon this spring (details coming soon). Once again, we have the opportunity to create a ripple effect right here in Bothell that will grow exponentially. By saying yes, we help people gain access to clean water. Many students who receive clean water are forming clubs to serve and educate their community about personal hygiene and keeping the water clean and safe. As a result of this positive change, many children gain access to education that will enable them to attend university and become future teachers and doctors, continuing the ripple effect!

Thank you, Mr. McDaniel and the World Vision team, for leading the charge and moving your feet so that we can move ours!

"By this we know love, that he laid down his life for us, and we ought to lay down our lives for the brothers. But if anyone has the world's goods and sees his brother in need, yet closes his heart against him, how does God's love abide in him? Little children, let us not love in word or talk but in deed and in truth." 1 John 3:16-18

Our students always enjoy hearing from Mr. Benzel, our Athletic and Spiritual Formations Director, at the chapel. Today, he took them back to 2001, the last time the Mariners reached the ALCS. He used the example of fans who waited 24 years to illustrate the importance of patiently trusting in God and His perfect timing in all areas of our lives. Be sure to check out Galatians 6:9 at home!

We may not always see the whole picture, but we can trust that God is always working, and His timing is always perfect!

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make straight your paths." Proverbs 3:5-6

Today at chapel, we heard from Pastor Phillip Kim, the discipleship pastor at CrossPointe. He reminded us of the message in Jeremiah 32:17, which tells us that nothing is too hard for our all-powerful God. Pastor Phillip shared a personal story from his childhood about a time when he got lost trying to find his way home. He said, "There are billions of things for God to take care of, but He also took care of me." He ended by emphasizing that "the greatest thing God ever did for us was to send Jesus!"

Pastor Phillip has become a familiar face to our elementary families, as he greets them during pickup on Monday mornings. We are thankful to Pastor Phillip and the leadership at CrossPointe for their continued support of our school.

"Ah, Lord God! It is you who have made the heavens and the earth by your great power and by your outstretched arm! Nothing is too hard for you." Jeremiah 32:17

Today was our first Philippians Award chapel of the year, and we heard from secondary teacher Ms. Michiels. Our students spent the month of September focusing on the character trait of friendliness. Ms. Michiels recapped the concept of friendliness and encouraged the students to share examples of friendliness from the Bible. Check out Luke 19:1-10. Jesus loved and befriended Zacchaeus when others didn't, and He calls us to follow in His footsteps. "Friendliness is a choice. Being like Jesus is a choice."

What a friend we have in Jesus!

"For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost." Luke 19:10