LifeWise Academy Responds to Controversial Social Media Post
Joe Lyons •
July 20, 2024
LifeWise Academy recently addressed a controversial letter sent out by clergy in Huron, Ohio and a subsequent Facebook post that has sparked debate within the community. In an exclusive interview, Pastor John Bouquet of Bethel Chapel and LifeWise Advancement Team Member Buddy Workman shared their perspectives and clarified the organization’s stance.
Addressing the Concerns
Buddy Workman identified three main points of contention raised in the letter: curriculum, fundraising, and the use of church buildings.
Curriculum Transparency
“The curriculum is the easiest one to address,” Workman stated. “People think that we’re hiding something, but we have a license agreement with The Gospel Project for the use of our curriculum. Any local director—Mary, Ginny, Morgan , Leann, Connie , Pam, Michelle, Lori, Nina and myself.—if anyone wants to sit down and review the curriculum, we are more than happy to show them. This includes the curriculum, the guides on how to teach it, and the whole nine yards.”
Fundraising Efforts
Pastor John Bouquet emphasized the commitment to making the program accessible to all children without financial burden. “It doesn’t cost the kids anything. We raise all the money. I raise hundreds of thousands of dollars every year for LifeWise because we believe in this program. It’s the mission of this church and many other churches in Ashland County.”
Use of Church Buildings
Addressing the use of church buildings, Bouquet added, “We understand that there are churches with pastors and congregations that do not endorse this program. We appreciate them speaking their minds, but we don’t agree. There are churches, parents, and students that want to participate, and we want to make it available. It will change the life of your children.”
The Impact of LifeWise Academy
Bouquet, who has been in ministry for 42 years, passionately supports LifeWise Academy. “I’ve been involved with LifeWise from the very beginning and fully endorse it because it teaches the word of God, a life-changing book. Thousands of children in Ashland County have participated in this program over the last few years.”
He continued, “Most children that go through this program come out with a smiling face, an improved life perspective, a better understanding of God, and they become better students, better daughters and sons, and eventually better citizens.”
A Call for Continued Support
Despite the controversy, LifeWise Academy remains steadfast in its mission. “To the moms and dads with their kids enrolled, keep them there. They’ll be blessed tremendously,” Bouquet urged. “For those concerned about the controversy, know that this program positively impacts children’s lives.”
Looking Ahead
LifeWise Academy plans to continue its outreach and address concerns openly. “We thank everyone for their feedback,” Workman concluded. “Our doors are always open for discussions, and we remain committed to our mission of providing a faith-based education to those who seek it.”
The debate surrounding LifeWise Academy emphasizes the importance of dialogue and understanding within the community, as both supporters and critics voice their opinions on the role of faith-based education in public life.