Kwatja Etatha – Living Waters School
Since Alice Springs Lutheran Church founded Living Waters School over 30 years ago, the school has seen a steady increase in Aboriginal student numbers, now at 16% of the school’s total enrolment.
Aboriginal families have continued to send their children to Living Waters (Kwatja Etatha) because they want their children to know Jesus, love and know God’s word and experience a Lutheran education. Recently, some Aboriginal students shared their thoughts on coming to Living Waters. Here’s what they said: ‘I’ve been here for two years – I’m learning more and it’s a better environment. I have more friends here’ and ‘I remember coming to the school – I came on a Wednesday and I was a bit shy, but I got used to it. I’ve made 5–6 friends and I don’t feel lonely. I have so many more friends here’.
Students agree that being in a Christian school is what makes it a place of love and kindness. ‘We read the Bible, we pray because God can hear what we are doing and we have a cross that shows us Jesus is there with us. The cross is a symbol that Jesus died for us – it’s a free ticket into heaven.’
As a Lutheran school, we believe in God and share true stories about God. ‘Lutheran is like when you worship God and learn about God. I believe God gives us things and keeps us safe.’
Principal Eunice Stoll agrees – ‘It’s wonderful to hear our Aboriginal students freely talking about the ways Kwatja Etatha, their school, has nurtured their faith in growing and knowing grace, love and kindness.
‘Thanks to all the families and students for supporting Living Waters Lutheran School and may the love of our Saviour Jesus fill your hearts with peace, love and joy this Christmas.’
