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Educational and spiritual growth go hand in hand.

No one knows this better than Fort Dale Academy Headmaster David Brantley.

Earlier this month, the seasoned educator invited Dr. John Ed Mathison to speak to students grades fifth through 12^th as he presented a motivational speech.

Serving as the head minister of Frazer United Methodist Church for 36 years, Mathison made his mark on ministry with the growth of the church from 400 members to 9,000. After retiring in 2008, Mathison continued his speaking engagements, holding true to a vision to reach 1 billion individuals by 2020.

Brantley welcomed Mathison to the campus Nov. 7.

“He has been in our area for many years,” Brantley said. “He is a great person to teach people about Jesus Christ. It is our honor today to have him with us.”

Addressing the students, Mathison, who is the co-founder of the John Ed Mathison Leadership Ministries, a ministry involving preaching, teaching, conferences, seminars and training pastors and lay persons to be leaders impacting the world, expressed his delight to be on the FDA campus.

“I have spoken a few places near here and I have been looking forward to speaking with you today,” he said.

Challenging the students to set and achieve goals, Mathison compared living life to typing a paper.

“In life it seems it is just as important to keep our fingers on the right keys,” he said.

Telling stories of Neil Armstrong and the Wright brothers, Mathison inspired the students to dream and hold on to their dreams. Referencing these historical figures that achieved much, Mathison asked the students to see that these individuals, “once sat in a place similar to yours.”

All in all, Mathison concluded by encouraging the students to keep striving for more in life.