PURPLE & GOLD / 2024-25
T H E N, N O W,
& ALWAYS
HEAD OF SCHOOL NATE MORROW
Dear CPA Community,
Each year, after the whirlwind of May, I carve out time to be still, seek the Lord, and reflect on the past school year. In the fast-paced life of a school, it’ s tempting to turn the page and dive into the excitement of“ what’ s next.” Yet, I’ ve learned the value of pausing to look back before moving forward.
Years ago, this practice of reflection became a necessity. I found myself so focused on future hopes and plans that I often wrestled with anxiety, wondering if our plans for the future, aligned with God’ s plans for our future. This left little room for the restoration I needed during the summer months and often just left me chasing relief. Now, I intentionally pause to process prayerfully the year— the joys, growth, and miracles, as well as the challenges, messiness, and unexpected moments that mark a community of 1,400 students, 250 faculty, and 900 families. In looking back, I see God’ s faithfulness woven through every moment: His presence, His grace, and His goodness.
In September 1985, CPA opened its doors for the first time. As we celebrate our 40th year, I’ ve spent time with those who followed God’ s call to start this school. Their vision was simple: obey God in the moment and trust for a second year. Today, we have the privilege of looking back over four decades, seeing undeniable evidence of God’ s faithfulness, the need for high-quality Christian education in Nashville, and the fulfillment of a dream— that the Gospel would radiate from 2323 Old Hickory Boulevard to the ends of the earth. He was faithful then. He is faithful now. And He will be faithful always.
This reflection has taught me three lessons: First, walk closely with Jesus. Listen for His voice, which requires slowing down and sitting in His presence. Then, take the next step of obedience, even if it’ s the only step you can see. That step often comes with uncertainty, and when anxiety creeps in, look back. Recall moments from the past year— or even years— when God brought clarity to chaos and proved His faithfulness. Hold fast to those truths. Finally, obedience, paired with the encouragement of God’ s past faithfulness, grants the courage to walk open-handed into the next step He reveals.
This magazine is a snapshot of God’ s faithfulness over the past year. As it arrives in your mailbox, may it invite you to join our community in reflecting on His goodness, recommitting to the mission that began 40 years ago, and courageously stepping into what God is calling us to next.
Soli Deo Gloria,
Nate Morrow Head of School
2