CONTRIBUTED PHOTO - James Wayne Plum and Lucille Louise Kunch were married on Nov. 17, 1951 at St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Tama, the building that now houses the Tama-Toledo Christian School.

TAMA – The story of Tama-Toledo Christian School is one of faith, community, and continuity–deeply rooted in history while intentionally focused on the future. Located within the former (and fully renovated) St. Patrick Catholic Church, Tama-Toledo Christian School is a non-denominational Christian school, serving families from a variety of backgrounds, sharing a commitment to Christ-centered education.

For generations, St. Patrick Catholic Church served from this location as the spiritual heart of the Tama-Toledo community. Within its walls, families celebrated the Sacraments of Baptism, First Communion, Confirmation, and Marriage. These sacred milestones shaped lives, strengthened faith, and established a legacy of Christian values that continues to influence the community today.

Though Tama-Toledo Christian School is not a Catholic school, it carries forward the broader Christian mission previously lived out by St. Patrick’s. The school exists to provide a Christ-centered education that nurtures students spiritually, academically, and socially — partnering with families to develop young people who live out biblical truth, demonstrate compassion, and lead with integrity in their homes, churches, and communities.

Building the History Wall: An ongoing campaign

As part of its commitment to honoring Christian heritage while building for the future, Tama-Toledo Christian School is launching an ongoing History Wall Campaign–a long-term initiative designed to preserve the faith stories that shaped the Tama-Toledo community.

Terry James Plum and Paula Elizabeth Hewitt were married on June 19, 1971 at the same church.

The History Wall, to be permanently displayed within the school, will recognize the sacred milestones that took place at the original St. Patrick Catholic Church. Commemorative plaques will honor moments of Baptism, First Communion, Confirmation, and Marriage, ensuring that the testimonies of past generations are not lost, but intentionally remembered and shared.

More than a display, the History Wall is a living testament–a visible connection between generations. Each plaque will represent a story of faith and obedience; offering today’s students daily reminders that their education is built upon a strong Christian foundation and that God’s faithfulness extends across time.

Valentine’s Day dinner kick-off event

To launch this ongoing campaign, Tama-Toledo Christian School will host a Valentine’s Day Dinner Kick-Off Event on Saturday, February 14, at 5:30 p.m., at the school located at 600 Oswego Street. Guests are asked to RSVP by February 8, 2026, by contacting fundraising.ttcs@gmail.com.

This evening marks the beginning of the History Wall Campaign, inviting the community to take part in preserving these sacred stories while supporting the school’s mission for the future.

How to participate in the History Wall campaign

Community members are invited to participate by purchasing commemorative plaques, which will become permanent elements of the History Wall. A dinner for two, including one 3” x 6″ commemorative plaque, is available for a donation of $300. Additional plaque options include:

-3” x 6″ Plaque – $250

-6” x 6″ Plaque – $400

-12” x 6″ Plaque – $800

Each plaque honors a loved one or a significant faith milestone and helps ensure these stories continue to inspire future generations. To inquire about purchasing a plaque, please email fundraising.ttcs@gmail.com.

While commemorative plaques are intended for families who celebrated sacraments at St. Patrick Catholic Church, participation in the dinner is open to families and supporters from all Christian denominations who wish to invest in Christian education. The cost of the dinner is $75 per person.

A legacy that continues

This campaign reflects Tama-Toledo Christian School’s vision of connecting generations through faith. While denominations may differ, a shared belief in Jesus Christ–and the call to pass faith on to the next generation — remains central.

The heart of this effort is reflected in Proverbs 13:22: “A good man leaves an inheritance to his children’s children.”

By remembering the past and investing in Christian education today, Tama-Toledo Christian School continues a legacy of faith that began long ago. The History Wall Campaign invites the community to be part of that legacy–honoring what God has done and trusting Him for what lies ahead.

Additional ways to support Tama-Toledo Christian School: https://givebutter.com/0OLPj5, https://givebutter.com/JfaDnV.