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Words From The Pastor . . . May 2012
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not rely on your own insight. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.”
Proverbs 3:5-6
When I think of scripture passages of great wisdom, I always remember Proverbs chapter three. When I made a renewed faith commitment at the age of 34, my pastor wrote me a note quoting Proverbs 3: 5-6. It’s simple, powerful, and true! In faith, focus on loving and serving God and we will receive wisdom and guidance to “stay on the right path.”
This month we will hold a Service of Confirmation for seven of our young people that have been meeting weekly to learn, grow, and prepare for full membership and participation in our church. They are Ben Dooling, Hannah Evanik, Michael Evanik, Matthew Giammetteo, Andrew Johnson, Nicole Pierson, Tessa Sariego, and Heather Seeton. They are a great group. I’ve considered it a privilege to be with them on Sundays and at other times as we’ve moved through the program. Like the rest of us they come from different faith backgrounds and levels of knowledge of our faith traditions here at Christ Church.
Since the program started in October, we have spent time discussing the Bible, theology, the seasons of the church year, the United Church of Christ, history of Christ Church, our current leadership model, worship, and the sacraments. We attended a weekend retreat at Mensch Mill and participated in service projects and in the worship service.
Confirmation is just an overview of the principles of a life focused on faith, service, and church participation. Our young people must continue the path of spiritual growth and connection to our church. We will be looking at formal ways to keep the momentum going through the summer and beyond. I also would encourage all of you to talk with our young people. We need to welcome their involvement and their ideas in all aspects of the church’s ministries.
Thanks to the mentors that have participated in the program. I hope you will all continue to value and to stay connected to our confirmands. And I wish for all of us to seek the wisdom of Proverbs chapter three. Why don’t you read it today and see how you might take a new step towards living its wisdom.
Blessings,
Pastor Jeff
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