Chapel Talk A new direction respects our past
By Julie Caspersen
D
ave Stewart likes the term “spiritual humanism.” It’s how he describes the gatherings he leads in Memorial Chapel.
“We sing some of the classic songs that Old Boys will remember, and we respect the space as a living memorial to those Andreans who fought and died in the service of their country, in the way we always have,” explains Dave, nearing the end of his first year as SAC’s Associate Director, Student Affairs (formerly Associate Director, Student Engagement and Wellness). “For me, however, the purpose is to create dialogue about important elements of our world.” Discussions can revolve around social justice issues or centre on current events. There is time for reflection, songs, laughter, and tears. “It’s a special time for our community to come together, and I count myself very fortunate to be a part of it,” says Dave, who came to St. Andrew’s 22 years ago as an Upper School history teacher. Since 1931, Memorial Chapel has been a place of gathering and reflection on the Aurora campus. Old Boys who visit the school would be hard-pressed to find many differences in the ambience and architecture.
14 The ANDREAN Spring 2022
There has been a slow shift in direction in the decades since services were preached to students and rooted in the Presbyterian traditions of the school’s founders. As St. Andrew’s has evolved, so has chapel time. This report was included in the 1971-72 Review: “This year, our chapel service took on a new light. Students at the college began to take the initiative, and preached or read or gave lessons to the school, instead of the standard service. Of course, we have the Headmaster and Dr. Wilkie to preach, and this is always welcomed by the student body.”
During chapel these days, students gather weekly, sharing time with friends in a unique setting. “I greet every student as they walk into the chapel with either a handshake or a fist bump. I want them to know I am happy that they are there, and I value what they bring to chapel and the school,” Dave says. Topics often focus on weighty subjects, such as World Cancer Day, anti-Semitism, and Black Lives Matter. “However, there are times when I see or hear something in the hallway that prompts me to discuss certain things. Sometimes it’s literally a gut feeling, something that has impacted me significantly that may also speak to the boys,” Dave says. “In the end, that’s what it’s all about: I want the boys
