October 2026: Ministry Moments with Ms. Mariah

Happy Fall! The change in the weather has nearly coincided with the changing Quarters here at Mission 3. By the end of this week, all first-quarter homework will be turned in, and the first-quarter checks will be completed.

This month we are peering into elementary school life. Tanya Grounds teaches 5^th and 6^th grades. This is her third year teaching for M3 and her second year as the 5/6 teacher.

Each Monday in Ms. Tanya's class starts with the Word of God and prayer. One great way to keep first things first is to do them first! From there, Tanya tries to find activities that combine what they are learning from one or more subjects with community building, speaking, or writing skills. For Tanya, the importance of the classroom isn't just what you are learning, but who you are learning it next to.

Watching her students walk through curriculum that is so infused with God and the gospel is a great joy for her. Adding a journal prompt this year on a Biblical topic has given Tanya another view of how her students are thinking about the things of God. The daily online check-ins are a part of community life that Tanya has enjoyed watching unfold, particularly with the group currently in 6th grade, as it is their second year together with Ms. Tanya. They share struggles, encourage one another, and, of course, make light-hearted jibes from time to time. It really facilitates community!

When I asked her to describe her heart for her students, she responded, "To really know and love God well and form their identity in Him." As a parent of one of her 6th grade students, I can't imagine a better answer. I asked her if there was anything she wanted people to know about this age group. The first thing she said was, "They are the best." Though she said many things, what she repeated most was how fun and cool they are. She also said, "This is a ripe age to really pour into kids. Take that opportunity. Don't ever miss the chance to have a conversation with them. You'll be blessed."

Tanya's prayer for her class is a good prayer for us all: Lord, let us see people the way Jesus sees people so we can love people the way Jesus loves people. Amen.