Over the next two weeks, 66 of our 9th-grade youth will say “yes” to their faith and to the promises made in their baptism. As a congregation, we have helped raise them in faith, prayed for them, and supported their faith journeys with our time, energy, and financial gifts.
I love bragging about our youth, but I also love bragging about being part of a congregation that takes passing on the faith seriously! What a gift it is to be part of a community that invests in the next generation and helps young people grow in their relationship with God.
Every year, I am amazed by the depth of faith these young people demonstrate. I am also reminded of how important it is for all of us to continue growing and learning. Their faith journeys challenge me to reflect on my own. How can I deepen my faith? How can I continue learning and growing in my understanding of who God is and how God is at work in my life?
I challenge each of you to think intentionally about your own faith journey. What is one thing you can do to deepen your relationship with God? As our 9th graders affirm their faith and commit to continuing their walk with the Lord, may their example encourage each of us to keep growing, asking questions, learning, and discovering new ways to live out our faith.
This weekend is also an exciting time in the life of Gloria Dei as we vote on a new Senior Pastor! Please join us at 10:00 a.m. Sunday morning in the sanctuary as we gather for this important moment in our congregation’s life.
We are also incredibly grateful for Pastor Tim and the ministry he has shared with Gloria Dei. He has been part of some amazing ministry here, and we look forward to celebrating him and giving thanks for his time with us. Please join us on Sunday, November 1, at noon in the Fellowship Hall for this celebration. Please RSVP here so we can prepare.
What a wonderful season in the life of Gloria Dei—a time to celebrate the faith of our young people, give thanks for the ministry we have shared, and look forward with hope to what God has in store for our congregation!
See you in church!
Pastor Sarah Goldammer
