Episcopal Identity
Spirit
Holland Hall deeply values its role as an Episcopal School. We believe that values lie at the heart of education. But solid values are not simple values. We teach freedom and responsibility, belief and open-mindedness, social conscience and individual integrity. Our Episcopal affiliation reflects our belief that individual character unfolds in two important ways: by respecting tradition and thinking for oneself.
Each student at Holland Hall will feel that their own religious beliefs are valued by those around them, while learning to appreciate the religious tenets and customs of others, and grappling with the ethical and moral questions that must be faced by the leaders of tomorrow’s world. These are our goals, and the Episcopal Church supports us in our partnership, as we seek to fully educate and nurture the young hearts and minds entrusted to us.
Excerpted from an article by the Rev. Robert L. Bibens, Primary and Middle School Chaplain
Episcopal Ties
In 1960, nearly 40 years after the founding of Holland Hall, a joint decision was made on the parts of the Holland Hall Board of Trustees and the Episcopal Diocese of Oklahoma. Many of the school’s constituents were Episcopalians, and a faith-based relationship was sought. In addition, the Diocese was excited to have an Episcopal School represent the Tulsa area, which would complement Casady School in Oklahoma City. An agreement was reached, and Holland Hall has proudly called itself an Episcopal School, ever since.
Episcopal Schools, nationwide, as well as within this diocese, allow for a tremendous amount of diversity from school to school, while always placing consistent emphases on academics, personal discipline and spiritual growth.
Holland Hall expresses its own identity and philosophy as an Episcopal School through creating a learning environment in which students not only receive instruction about the spiritual aspects of their development, but have a multitude of opportunities to become actively and personally engaged in that development. Our school emphasizes this process through such avenues as community service, regular worship at weekly chapel services for all ages, weekly optional celebrations of the Eucharist, Baccalaureate at St. John’s Episcopal Church and the annual Advent Lessons and Carols service at Trinity Episcopal Church. A thorough curriculum in the Religious Studies Department includes a graduation requirement and the day-to-day presence of a chaplain in each division.
In the 48 year history of Holland Hall’s affiliation with the Episcopal Church,17 different chaplains have served our Primary, Middle and Upper Schools. Currently, two Episcopal Deacons, The Rev. Bert Bibens and The Rev. Art Scrutchins fill those roles in a full-time capacity.
