From Academic Excellence to Spiritual Transformation
What began as a search for quality academics became a journey of faith that transformed an entire family. For the Shaw family, enrolling their children at Mother Lode Adventist Junior Academy wasn't just an educational decision—it was the catalyst that led them from skepticism to baptism.
Fifteen years ago, a casual conversation with a friend left Darrick Shaw feeling "completely lost" when Bible topics arose. That moment sparked his desire to learn more about faith, leading him through various churches before finding his spiritual home. When his wife joined him in a young married couples’ group, they both knew they wanted Christ to be part of their children's education.
"The real draw for us was the stellar academics in Adventist education," Shaw said. "So we made the commitment and enrolled at Mother Lode Adventist Junior Academy."
Divine connections revealed
The family's journey took an unexpected turn when Shaw discovered a memorial bench at the church dedicated to the pastor who had officiated their 2006 wedding. At the time, they didn't know he was an Adventist pastor.
"We had no faith then," Shaw recalled. "I told him not to mention God too much because it would make people uncomfortable. He said 'God' every other word during the ceremony."
More divine connections emerged after the parents’ recent baptisms in April. While sorting through old boxes, Shaw found his great-grandmother's funeral program—officiated by the same pastor who had married them years earlier.
"He's definitely been playing a role in our lives for a long time, and we just didn't know it," Shaw said.
Education shapes young leaders
The Shaw family has been part of the Adventist community for 12 years, with their daughter progressing from kindergarten through her current 11th grade at Mother Lode Adventist Junior Academy. She will be among the first graduates of the new Central Valley Christian Academy in Sonora.
"We've never wavered on our decision with Adventist education," Shaw said. "It's been the best decision we made as parents."
The impact extends beyond academics. Their daughter has delivered two sermons during evangelistic series at their church.
"If you ever have a chance to see my daughter preach, this girl is going to be a youth pastor someday," her mother said proudly.
Mission work strengthens bonds
Last year, the entire Shaw family participated in a Kenya mission trip with their church youth group. The experience deepened their connection to their faith community and reinforced their commitment to Christian education.
"When we came to the Adventist church—obviously we were there all the time because of our kids' school—it was the one place in our life where we never felt judgment," Shaw said. "The humble professionals we've become close with were what ultimately made our decision to be baptized."
A complete family transformation
The Shaw children were baptized three years ago, followed by their parents this past April. For the family, baptism represented the final piece in their spiritual journey.
"It was the last piece in our life to finalize us being a family," Shaw said. "We are extremely grateful that God brought us here."
The Shaw family's story illustrates how Adventist education serves as more than academic instruction. It becomes a pathway for entire families to discover faith, build community, and grow spiritually together. Their journey from skeptical parents seeking quality education to a fully committed Adventist family demonstrates the transformative power of Adventist education in shaping not just students but entire family legacies.
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By Justin Kim
