Carving Out Connections: Chapel Families Transform Pumpkins and Relationships

The halls of Lutheran High School of San Antonio were recently filled with laughter and creativity scent as chapel families gathered for our annual Pumpkin Competition. What began as a simple fall activity has transformed into a reminder of why chapel families are such a vital part of the LHS experience. 

At first glance, a pumpkin decorating contest might seem like just another fun school tradition. But for our students, it represents something much deeper—an opportunity to work together, support one another, and strengthen the bonds that make chapel families so special.

Each chapel family approached the challenge with enthusiasm and imagination. Some groups huddled together, brainstorming elaborate designs, while others dove right in with paint brushes and creative additions. The result? An incredible display of creativity that showcased not just artistic talent, but the unique personality of each chapel family.

For those new to LHS, chapel families are a cornerstone of our school community. Meeting twice a week in groups of about 12 students, these families create a space where students from different grade levels, sports teams, and clubs come together to grow in faith and character. When a student arrives at Lutheran High School, they're placed in a chapel family where they'll remain throughout their time here. It's a place where freshmen connect with seniors, where athletes bond with artists, and where students meet peers they might not otherwise spend time with in their daily routines.

In chapel families, students pray together, share snacks, and explore their Christian faith through devotions and meaningful conversations. These groups become an important home at school—a support system that helps students navigate the challenges and celebrate the victories of high school life.

The pumpkin competition perfectly illustrates what makes chapel families so valuable. As students collaborated on their designs—deciding on themes, dividing up tasks, and problem-solving together—they weren't just creating decorated pumpkins. They were building positive relationships, learning to work as a team, and experiencing the joy that comes from accomplishing something creative together.
Whether a chapel family created a funny design, an intricate representation of a favorite character, or a painted masterpiece, every pumpkin told a story of students coming together. Some groups discovered hidden artistic talents among their members. Others learned patience as they worked through challenging details. All of them experienced the satisfaction of creating something as a team.

At Lutheran High School of San Antonio, we believe in providing a foundation for a life of impact. Our mission is to develop followers of Christ who work as the hands and feet of Jesus, critical thinkers prepared for an evolving world while rooted in Biblical truths, and willing young adults ready to serve others. Chapel families are essential to this mission. Through activities like the pumpkin competition—and in the everyday moments of prayer, fellowship, and faith-building—students learn what it means to be part of a Christian community. They discover their God-given talents, practice servant leadership, and build the character that will serve them far beyond their high school years.