Faith + Service

"Man's chief end is to enjoy God and to enjoy Him forever."

When our founders, Spencer and Park McCallie, adopted our school motto in 1905, they were reflecting their goal to create an institution that placed faith and character education on par with rigorous academic preparation.

More than 110 years later, McCallie remains a Christian school. We welcome students from a variety of backgrounds, and we encourage every student to stand firmly in his own faith. You will find McCallie to be place where you can explore your spiritual side in a safe environment with a strong emphasis on character development. Our students attend a thrice-weekly chapel service, and all of our students will take two semesters of Bible or religion courses. Boarding students attend a worship service of their choosing each weekend, which includes an on-campus service led by our Chaplain and student vestry.

McCallie let me discover my faith for myself. I never felt like I was forced to be a Christian. What I felt was that I had the luxury of being educated about matters of faith and that I had the free will to do what I wanted with that.

Chris Lee '13

Chapel Programs

All Upper School students meet three times a week and begin with scripture readings and prayer. Speakers talk on a variety of issues focused on growth, faith, community, and brotherhood. Outside ministers are brought in monthly to talk about issues of faith and spiritual growth as well.

Fellowship of Christian Athletes

The purpose of FCA is “to present to athletes and coaches, and all whom they influence, the challenge and adventure of receiving Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord, serving Him in their relationships and in the fellowship of the church.” At McCallie, at all grade levels of the high school, groups meet regularly for fellowship and discussion every Wednesday morning at 8:00 a.m.

Missionary Committee

The Missionary Committee was founded by Dr. J. Park McCallie in 1940. Its purpose over the years has been to develop Christian leadership and to instill in McCallie Men the idea of stewardship and the responsibility of helping others in need. The committee focuses much of its energy on activities for the children of Bethel Bible Village and other charities.

Student Vestry

This student-run organization plans all non-denominational church services and also oversees the chapel schedule. Sunday services, held about twice a month, are run totally by students. The Student Vestry meets every Sunday night before study hall.

Faculty & Student-Led Bible Studies

Almost all the dorms on campus have weekly Bible studies led by students or faculty to foster discipleship and spiritual growth.

Community Service

We believe strongly that God is glorified in our service to others. There are a number of opportunities throughout the semester to volunteer; serving at the local Community Kitchen on Wednesday mornings is one example of an available outreach.

Student-Led Prayer Group

After each Chapel program a group of students gather together to pray for the needs of the Community.

Young Life

Young Life is a national organization that promotes Christian ideals and morals. Skits, singing, laughter, and friendship fill the air every week in a combined effort with Girls Preparatory School.

Our Motto

From its inception, McCallie has been an educational community informed by a clear vision derived from the Christian faith. Thus, the response to the Westminster Shorter Catechism’s first question, “What is the chief end of man?” is the cornerstone of the school’s life. Written by McCallie's Chaplain and Bible department faculty.