Madison Academy hosted the ladies and children from the Nashville Rescue Mission for an evening of dinner and entertainment on Sunday, December 11.  The Academy bus and vans picked up passengers outside the Rescue Mission on Sunday afternoon with the promise of good food, laughter, and the chance to see Santa.

Upon arrival at Madison Academy, our guests were escorted by students through a hallway of lights and a decorated gymnasium to their dining tables.  The gymnastics team, now functioning as smiling wait staff, appeared with sparkling juice followed by overflowing plates of salad, pasta, and bread.  The sweet treat of pie and cookies came next.

Then, when every belly was full, the cheerful high schoolers transitioned to entertainers and shared their talents as gymnasts in several routines.  The guests were invited to participate in the fun and many chose to get on the mats.  Women and children took their power pose in the air, as the Acros lifted the guests in elevators.  Following the show, Santa arrived with gifts for every guest.

“Merry Christmas” a woman exclaimed blowing a kiss to Santa as she exited the building to load the bus.  “Y’all gave me Christmas I didn’t think would come.  Thank you!”

Businesses and individuals willing to open their hearts to the Rescue Mission guests donated all the food and gifts for the event.  For 5 years, the management of the Rivergate Fazoli’s has gladly donated the breadsticks.  Other corporate donors include the Madison Kroger and Rivergate Target.  Our school families purchased, wrapped, and prayed over the gifts a few days prior to the event.

For more than a century, Madison Academy has made an intentional effort to provide a variety of service and ministry opportunities that both inspire and empower our students to care for others.  We desire that our students develop meaning and purpose in their faith.  Because it is right here close to home, this event imprints compassion on the lives of our students like no other.