The number 9 is associated with finality or completeness. At the end of every decade of our lives we look back at the years gone; sometimes with fondness, sometimes with regret and many times with a sense of growth and the reality of growing older- especially when the next age is 10.

A socially distanced formation this afternoon

90 is a number we rarely interact with. When was the last time you counted to 90 or met someone who is 90? Nonagenarians are the minority in our world, though due to improved living conditions for most, especially in the developed world the numbers are on the increase. According to knoema.com “The world’s total population aged 90+ years was estimated at 21,328.75 thousand persons in 2020.” The gift of life is something to look up and convey our gratitude for each day. While our days are numbered, our legacies can live on much longer, even forever!

St Andrew’s School Turi is the legacy of a young but solid couple who literally built a school with their bare hands for mostly missionary children. In 1931, Jean and Peter Lavers wore many hats Headmaster, teacher, builder, cook; you name it, they did it! As the years went by the school grew in size and population.

Pa and Ma Lavers

Today, January 19, 2021, Turi with over 600 pupils stands on the foundation of Ma and Pa as they were referred to. The British curriculum has evolved over the 90 years and of course, life is completely different but the heart of Turi remains unchanged!

Ariel view of the Senior School which didn’t exist in Ma and Pa’s time

Christian love and care is the rock on which St Andrew’s was built- that not even a fire could destroy (it’s no wonder the school chapel was the only part of the school that survived the fire). To date we continue Seeking the Highest in all that we do whether in class, outdoors or in our boarding houses!

Biblically the number 9 represents the fruits of the Holy Spirit love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. So this year we pray for the fruits of the holy spirit 10 fold! To the next 90 years!