Ministry Jordan A Different Place to Grow

Ministry enjoyed going into studios as a child with her father. He is an accomplished musician, and her mother is from a family of singers. Through her family, Ministry’s passion for music developed. The gift of music was instrumental in connecting her at The Potter’s House School, where she found a loving community that helped her grow.

We first heard about The Potter’s House (TPH) from our aunt. My mother considered her urgings, and eventually, my siblings were enrolled. I was in middle school, and it seemed appropriate for me to wait until high school to attend.

When I visited the school to shadow, I experienced an inviting culture, which completely threw me off, guard. I was timid, did not talk a lot, and was introverted. Not only was I shy, but I loved God; however, I didn’t have a strong relationship with Him just yet. Therefore attending this Christ-centered school would be too much for me. I did not want to go. Nevertheless, my mother noted that my siblings benefited by being at TPH and that I would too. Without a choice, I came to TPH.

At the Freshman breakfast and the Freshman orientation base camp, I knew there was something different about this school. A student came and introduced herself to me. She was the first person I met at TPH. She said, “What’s your name?” I said, “Ministry.” She cheerfully said, “Hi, Ministry. I’m Julie. I hope you enjoy your time at TPH!” Other students were super kind and welcoming.

Opening up to others was hard; I kept to myself. Therefore music became my go-to for everything, my saving grace–if you will. It was a way for me to connect quickly with God and others. I then met Mr. Clark, Baraka, Eli, and Micah. To my surprise, they loved music just as much as me. Encouraged by them, I later joined the praise band and the gospel choir as a vocalist and instrumentalist. We played for chapels and special events. Then I began to see how TPH was different from other schools. Everyone was open to getting to know each other as an individual.

As a timid 9th-grader, life changes never came easy. I experienced waves of emotions about being at TPH. Miss Solis, a new teacher at the time, was more than a teacher. She was a friend, a mentor, and sometimes a big sister, speaking the truth to me even when it hurt a little. I received encouragement from her during rough times, and when I needed her, she was always there.

In Freshman year, as a procrastinator, I slacked off and hoped for the best. But Mrs. Sisco would say, “Because I love you, I am giving you this 8th hour.” In other words, I had to stay after school to do my schoolwork. I never understood the “love” in having to stay after school to do any work. However, I recognized and appreciated the small actions of my teacher sitting with me during the 8th hour, lunch, or free time. She noted my habits and made accommodations for my learning style. She would not let me or any other student fail.

I was not much of a talker for most of high school, but growth in all aspects of my life was happening. TPH influenced my walk with God and helped me to understand who I am in Him. Before TPH, I did not make time to be with God, although I had plenty of it. Chapels at school helped me develop a routine of spending time with Him. Additionally, chapel speakers were impactful and gave me new perspectives. I grew spiritually and realized I am ‘set apart’ for the Lord.

TPH offers growth. I am blessed to have attended. In the fall, I am studying at Grand Rapids Community College. I have been offered a spot at Calvin University and will transfer there after a year for music and film."