What Does Imago Dei Mean?

Imago Dei is the Latin phrase for the “image of God.” Our name is purposed to serve as a constant reminder that God has created each child in His image. Questions of “who am I?” and “what is my purpose?” are far too often left unanswered or answered incorrectly amidst a culture that worships self and where feelings are the guide. When faced with these questions, students need to go back to the meaning for which they were created. God created man in His image to reflect Himself, to display the story of who He is and His glory. We must come to understand who we are, not by looking within, but by looking up to the holy, sovereign God who created us.

Our present-day society is submerged in a state of cultural confusion because people are searching for their identity in every place except Christ. Modern day America is a direct reflection of the lack of understanding of our own dignity and identity as image-bearers of God. Today more so than ever, it is a challenge for students to see and know what their true identity and value is in the midst of this cultural confusion. The last thing we want as parents is for our children to develop an identity counter to the cross of Christ.

So, what impact will the imago Dei have on our school? Our goal is not to shape students in the image of a high GPA, athletic achievements, college scholarships, diplomas, the workforce, or career success. While these things are not inherently bad and will be a byproduct of our school, students at Imago Dei will first and foremost understand that their identity and value are rooted in being an image-bearer of God, and that they are created to know God and make Him known. What an opportunity we have! An opportunity to see the glimpses of God’s image in each and every student, to speak into it, and to call it out, all in the name of the One who created them.