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A sturdy house requires a solid foundation, a foundation that will support the frame, siding, and roof when the winds and rains surely come. The same is true for a life in Christ, a life whose spiritual roots will also be tested. Tested not by God, but by our own choices and the choices of others.
And that is why St. Margaret’s children and youth formation programs strive to build in our young people a spiritual foundation that will serve them for the rest of their lives. Two major elements of our programs play out in the summer – Vacation Bible School and study that precedes confirmation by our bishop.
The theme for this year’s week-long VBS program was Waves of Wonder. Children and youth – a record number of 84 – were exposed to miracles and stories of faith that centered on water. Moses tapping the rock in the desert to bring forth water, Jesus walking on water, and turning water into wine. And while Emily DelSordo, Children’s Formation Coordinator, planned and
organized the week, she was supported by 30 adult volunteers. Of the 84 participants, nearly half were from families that don’t even belong to St. Margaret’s but are attracted to the church and program. Ten were pre-K age, about half were first- through fourth-graders, and the remainder were older. Each day began with Bible stories, prayer, and opportunities to ask questions and reflect. There also was time for craft projects, play, and refreshments. And each day another stone was laid in these young people’s foundations.
The confirmation process for young people begins at the end of July and includes nine sessions over several months. Anyone can be a member of St. Margaret’s, but to be an “official” Episcopalian, one must be confirmed by a bishop. Our rector, the Rev. Peter Mayer, leads this confirmation process, and all of this year’s class of a dozen confirmands participate in either our youth program, acolyte program, or both. And the hours spent together center on the book My Faith, My Life. Yep. Laying more foundation stones.
In past years confirmands traveled to the cathedral in Baltimore to be confirmed, but this year Bishop Carrie will come to St. Margaret’s for the ceremony at the beginning of November. And while neither of these programs constitute a major share of St. Margaret’s budget, it is your giving that still makes them possible. Thank you.
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