MATTHEW IS SOMEWHAT OF AN ODDITY AT SCHOOL. HE ARRANGES A TIME FOR HIS MOTHER TO EXPLAIN TO THE TEACHER WHY HE CANNOT CELEBRATE CHRISTMAS, BIRTHDAYS, EASTER, SALUTE THE FLAG, SING AN ANTHEM OR BECOME TOO FRIENDLY WITH "WORLDLY CHILDREN".

IN 1983 THIS WAS MADE EASIER FOR PARENTS WITH THE INTRODUCTION OF THE SCHOOL BROCHURE. THE TEACHER IS TOLD THAT MATTHEW'S HOPE IS FOR GOD TO DESTROY THESE THINGS OF THE WORLD.

"The God of heaven will set up a kingdom that will never be brought to ruin. And the kingdom itself . . . will crush and put an end to all these kingdoms, and it itself will stand to times indefinite."-Daniel 2:44. Since we are convinced that this change is quite near, our young people believe it is realistic to prepare for a lifelong career that is in harmony with our belief in the reality of God's Kingdom. Our principal aim is to tell people about the bright future ahead. We really do look forward to the passing of present sorrows and troubles and to surviving to enjoy the blessings God has in store for those who serve Him. God's sure promise is: "The world is passing away and so is its desire, but he that does the will of God remains forever."-1 John 2:17." School and Jehovah's Witnesses pp.6-7