{Thank you to Judy M. for this post!}
A few years after Christadelphian Heritage College first started in Ontario, we noticed that the girls in the older grades (five through eight) were sometimes challenged with the small number of peers at the school and typical girl issues of this age. So began Mizpah Meetings. Mizpah means “watchtower” and this name was chosen as it was felt the older girls in the elementary school should be watchtowers to the younger girls. They should be looking out for them, as well as being good examples and role models in both demeanor and attitude.
“And Mizpah, for he said, The Lord watch between me and thee, when we are absent one from another.” Gen. 31:49
Mizpah Meetings were and still are scheduled at the school during lunch recess for thirty minutes, once every three or four weeks. An older sister oversees the meetings. It is set up like a High Tea – each young lady chooses a cup and saucer of their choice from our collection, for them to use during the meetings for the duration of their time in these older grades. The table is set up formally in the school kitchen, with linens, tea (including sugar cubes of coarse… limit of two per cup!), and a variety of food being served.
Our time together begins with a prayer, followed by a short lesson on a woman of the Bible. The young ladies give suggestions of who they would like us to talk about at the beginning of the school year and a different woman from this list is discussed each session. Staff members are also asked to give input throughout the year to the group leader, relevant to items they are noticing around the school effecting the students, e.g. someone being isolated, unChrist-like behaviour, etc. “Intreat.. the younger as sisters, with all purity… give none occasion to the adversary to speak reproachfully.” 1 Tim. 5:2,14.
This discussion is followed by what is called “sharing time”, when we go around the table and each girl gets an opportunity to share something they have recently done or will be doing, or any other topic they would like to discuss together. Throughout our meeting the consumption of food and tea is amazing, especially considering the girls have all had their lunch prior to meeting together! Table etiquette and manners are also part of the discussion as most girls have only ever seen grandma use a cup and saucer. The meetings go much too quickly and are enjoyed by all.
For the last two years we have had the benefit of someone sponsoring an end of year field trip to the Prince of Wales Hotel at Niagara-on-the-Lake, to enjoy High Tea in the Drawing Room. This is a very special way to end the school year.