At Urban Promise Academy, our approach to faith formation and character development is deeply rooted in our commitment to being a Christ-centered institution that nurtures spiritual growth, moral integrity, and a heart for service, while also welcoming and respecting individuals of all backgrounds, including those from other religious traditions or secular perspectives.  

 

Christ-Centered Foundation  

Our faith formation is anchored in the teachings of Jesus Christ, emphasizing love, grace, justice, and servant leadership. We strive to develop students who:  

- Grow in their faith through biblical instruction, prayer, and worship.  

- Live out Christ-like values such as compassion, humility, integrity, and perseverance.  

- Engage in service and mission work, recognizing that faith is best expressed through love and action.  

 

A Spirit of Inclusion and Respect for All Backgrounds  

While we are unapologetically Christ-centered, we embrace the diversity of our community and foster a culture of mutual respect and understanding. This includes:  

- Welcoming students of all faiths and beliefs with kindness and dignity.  

- Encouraging open dialogue about faith, ethics, and worldview differences in a spirit of learning and respect.  

- Teaching students to live out Christ’s command to “love your neighbor as yourself” (Mark 12:31) by building bridges of understanding rather than division.  

 

How We Engage with Students from Other Religious and Secular Backgrounds  

 

Creating a Safe and Respectful Environment  

   - Every student is treated with dignity and respect, regardless of their religious background. 

   - We emphasize shared values such as honesty, kindness, justice, and service to others.  

 

Interfaith Awareness and Education  

   - We teach students about world religions and different belief systems in a way that fosters knowledge and appreciation without compromising our Christ-centered identity.  

   - Discussions on faith, ethics, and global issues encourage students to understand the perspectives of others while deepening their own convictions.  

 

Encouraging Personal Faith Journeys  

   - Students are invited (but not required) to participate in chapel services, Bible studies, and prayer.  

   - Those from non-Christian backgrounds are supported in their personal spiritual growth without pressure to conform.  

 

Service as a Unifying Force  

   - We emphasize acts of service, justice, and community outreach, which unite students from all backgrounds in a common mission to do good in the world.  

   - Through volunteering, mission work, and advocacy, students experience the power of faith in action.  

 

Faith in Action: Living Out Christ-centered Values  

Rather than simply teaching about faith, we encourage students to live it out by:  

- Practicing daily prayer and reflection while respecting the personal faith practices of others. 

- Engaging in acts of kindness and generosity, fostering a spirit of giving and gratitude.  

- Standing for justice and equity, ensuring that all people are treated with fairness and dignity.  

 

Our Goals for Faith Formation

and Character Development  

By the time a student graduates from Urban Promise Academy, we aim for them to:  

- Have a strong moral foundation that guides them in making ethical decisions.  

- Be rooted in Christ-like values while respecting and valuing the perspectives of others.  

- Exhibit leadership, integrity, and compassion in their daily lives.  

- Feel empowered to serve their communities and advocate for justice in alignment with their faith and values.