A time to Grow...

I love the Spring.  The new growth is exciting to watch as we stand in awe of its beauty, but with it comes added work.  As you probably already know, it takes a lot to maintain a yard with its flowerbeds, trimming of trees, mowing and other landscaping projects.  For me, help is always welcomed and needed.
I would say the same thing occurs during Confirmation. The beauty of God's creation and love is evident all around as the Holy Spirit beckons us to work. It is indeed a joy to watch a group of youth grow while exploring their personal relationship with God, to better understand Wesleyan theology, the inner workings of denominations and world religions, and what being a follower of Christ entails.  But all of that takes work.  It takes commitment.  It takes time and patience and a desire to grow.  It takes youth willing to dig deep.  It takes parents and grandparents, Sunday school teachers, a senior pastor, congregation members and friends stepping up and leading the way with love, encouragement, and accountability.  Thank you for all you have done to follow God's call.
The GraceYouth Confirmation Class of 2022 is nearing completion of an 8 month period of study and reflection that I often refer to as a mini masters of divinity degree.  We are proud of each of these youth for their commitment and desire to better understand and challenge their thinking with an intentional focus on understanding how much God loves them and wants to be the center of their lives. 
On Easter morning, we will recognize their commitment and study and following our service, a celebration of Baptism and remembering their Baptism for those who were baptized as infants.  We invite each of you to be a part of this special celebration as you have certainly been a part of their confirmation journey as their Grace Family.  We also invite you to reflect upon your own personal relationship with Christ and know how much He loves you. 
May the Easter and Confirmation season be a time of new growth in each of us.
Happy Easter Grace Family!  David Sutton, Youth Ministry