MIRACLE $140,000+ RAISED AT CHINOOK WINDS ADVENTIST ACADEMY

Submitted by Bruce Fillier, Principal

When it comes to how we manage our resources, the Bible gives many promises. Here is a well-known one: "'Test me in this, says the LORD Almighty, 'and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it'" (Malachi 3:10, NIV). All that we are required to do is step out in faith.

We have been blessed at Chinook Winds Adventist Academy over the years, and this past year is no exception. I am humbled by the outpouring of love from everyone and the miracles I have witnessed since school began in September 2019.

Squash Tournament sponsors Dex Gittens and Oleg Lutso with Chinook Winds Adventist Academy Principal, Bruce Fillier.

Miracle #1

Significant financial donations came in through several faithful people in late August and early September, which allowed families in need an opportunity to attend our school. Some children would not have had the blessing of an Adventist Education this year, had it not been for the working of the Holy Spirit in the hearts of select private donors. I want to say "Thank you" to those who gave. May God continue to bless you and the families!

Miracle #2

Following consultations with senior pastors of our constituent churches, donations came in through our constituency, in addition to the planned annual subsidies that allow for school operations to continue. We had a few unplanned emergency events that came our way in the fall of 2019. The decisions by church boards for additional financial contributions were significant and unexpected. Also, additional funding was given by the churches to support select families in need (outside those mentioned in Miracle #1) who wanted their children to have an Adventist education. I want to say "Thank you" to the churches. This type of giving shows our collective strength under God's leadership, and it demonstrates His continual leading among His people.

Miracle #3

Ten weeks ago, we began our Double Debt Down Fundraiser for a need to find financing to replace our school hot water boiler (furnace). The Alberta Conference agreed to partner with us and offered to double any funding we raised. At the close of business yesterday, our business manager reported to the Alberta Conference that we have collectively raised $70,097.25. This morning, I received word from the treasurer of the Alberta Conference that they will be sending a matching cheque of $70,097.25. That brings our fundraising to an end total of $140,194.50. That's a miracle!!!! I want to say "Thank you" to the many people who were engaged in this effort. I am humbled once again to see how you are letting the Holy Spirit move in your lives in support of Chinook Winds Adventist Academy. Thanks to everyone for this miracle!

On behalf of the teachers and staff at Chinook Winds Adventist Academy, I want to say “Thank you” to all who gave financially and through the support of prayer. The strength of our school community is grounded in all groups under the plans that God has for us. As we let the Holy Spirit lead us, we will achieve His plans for these times.

A Miracle Within a Miracle

In just nine weeks leading up to Christmas Break, with the generous support of the Alberta Conference and the members of the constituent churches (which make up our School Board), Chinook Winds Adventist Academy conducted a fundraising campaign that raised over $140,000. This effort was part of God‘s plan for CWAA to have a proper furnace to keep the students, staff and other facility users warm during the cold winter months in Calgary. The CWAA Board would like to express their appreciation to all pastors, church members and the Alberta Conference for their faithful support! Without these partners, there would be no miracle!!!

While many things stood out about this fundraiser, there was one initiative of two individuals from one of our churches worth mentioning. These two advised us of their plans to sponsor a squash tournament in support of the fundraising campaign. Oleg Lutso and Dex Gittens, made their arrangements for a private donor to match any funds they raised at their squash tournament up to $5,000.00. This arrangement turned into $10,000 of funds raised. All because of the idea of two faithful servants. A miracle within a miracle! It was a blessing in action, and the picture shows the expressions of joy in the faces of those who came out to support this event. The Holy Spirit is at work among our people!!!

There are so many that gave towards the campaign. The Board would like to express their sincere gratitude to everyone who supported the purchase of a new furnace. The result of this fundraising campaign was the best Christmas gift ever and demonstrates that the Holy Spirit is alive and moving among the constituent churches in Calgary. Indeed, miracles happen every day. The CWAA Miracle of the Christmas Furnace is evidence of how God is looking after His people.