Message from Pastor Sue

(January 2025 - from our 2024 Annual Report)

"Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, and in purity." – 1 Timothy 4:12

This year, we celebrated an incredible moment in the life of our church, the confirmation of 6 of our young people.

This was more than a ceremony or a rite of passage. It was a sacred acknowledgment that God’s Spirit is alive and moving in this next generation.

Our youth are not just the future of the church; they are the church right now. Their faith, questions, and energy are gifts that strengthen and renew our community.

Scripture is filled with examples of God using young people to lead and inspire.

Think about David, a young shepherd boy, who faced Goliath with courage and faith.

Or Mary, a young woman who said "yes" to God’s extraordinary call to bear the Savior of the world.

And let’s not forget Jesus Himself, who at just 12 years old amazed the teachers in the temple with His understanding (Luke 2:46-47).

God has always worked through youth to bring about transformation.

These amazing young people confirmed their faith, they stepped into this holy legacy of service, leadership, and love.

In our everyday lives, youth remind us to dream boldly, act courageously, and question deeply. Their curiosity pushes us to rethink old ways, and their energy calls us to action.

In their passion, we see God’s call to live with purpose.

In their questions, we see God’s invitation to grow in understanding.

In their compassion, we see God’s love in action.

In a world filled with challenges, climate crises, social injustices, and a culture that often prioritizes self over service, our youth are uniquely positioned to bring fresh ideas and hopeful hearts. They show us what it looks like to live out Jesus’ words: “Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your God in heaven” (Matthew 5:16).

As a congregation, it’s our responsibility to nurture, support, and walk alongside our youth as they grow in faith. Confirmation was not the end of their journey, it’s the beginning. Let us be mentors, encouragers, and prayer warriors for them. Let us create space for them to lead, to serve, and to challenge us to be better disciples of Christ.

To our youth who were confirmed: You are a vital part of this church. Your faith inspires us, your energy uplifts us, and your presence reminds us of God’s promise to make all things new.

To the rest of us: Let us celebrate that moment with joy and commit ourselves to empowering these young believers. May we see in them the spark of God’s Spirit, and may their faith light a path for us all.

Blessings, Sue