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Stewardship Moment from November 2, by Cooper Blake
While I stand here in front of the church today, there's a bit of a story as to why I am here, so I will explain a little bit about my background. There's not a lot of religious background in my family. Only a very select few are religious. Primarily my Mom and Dad are not religious. Ever since my Great- Grandfather's Funeral, I have been curious. It was the first time I heard things like “God” “heaven” and “Jesus”. I didn't know what that was, I was only 10 years old. So I looked up what is heaven and watched videos on youtube. I remember a particular conversation with my mom saying “I know we have different religious beliefs, but what I believe in is the soul returns to the universe and watches upon earth”. I didn’t know what to make of that at the time but I stuck more closely in what I believed in. It felt more comforting, to know there's more after death, a second life if you will.
It wasn't until the fall semester of 2024 where I felt free and on my own. I wanted to start my own life. I always wanted to go to church by myself ever since I got my first car in high school. But the problem was my mother would know, and I would feel insecure about her knowing I’m going to church. I always felt like a hermit and didn't really fully express myself because I didn't feel comfortable in my own home to do so. At least that I would be far away where I would be living in a separate place that isn't my parents house, and I can go to church without her knowing. (it's worth noting here my mom isn't a bad mom, she just questions every decision I make. She even questions why I’m going to church and says “well our family doesn't go to church so why are you?” and both of us would feel awkward.)
I landed in Laconia in the fall of 2024 and one Saturday morning I wanted to see what church is all about. I type into google “churches near me”. Now that I’m well acquainted with the area, there's like 5 or more churches in the area, all very close to each other. Having been in the area for a month I recognized something. On the website of the Congregational Church of Laconia, there's a familiar, massive castle that I’ve seen before. “Hey I know the Castle! I didn’t know that was a church!” So the Sunday after I look up the time, I don't know what time church starts, and I’m glad I didn't assume the stereotypical 9:00am, because the website states 9:30am. The website states 60 people are physically present. So one morning I walk in, I sit down and watch the choir practice before service starts. As they do I am greeted…by you beautiful people. “You look new here” “I don't believe we’ve met” “We welcome you”. The environment was very inviting.
I like coming here because I am well liked here. A lot if not all of you enjoy my pastries that I sometimes come in with. Sometimes I like to help out. At this point in time I think I’ve been coming here for a year and I’ve graduated to being an usher which is pretty cool. I love greeting people at the door, I love lighting the candles, I love being here and being part of the community. I may not be here 100% of the time due to my busy schedule, but I try to make an appearance, and not only that, but do activities outside the church like the trip to Gunstock.
Here is nice. Here is peaceful. Here is where I can practice faith. And I love that there are so many ways to get involved with the community. I enjoy coming here, seeing smiling faces, and being well welcomed. I enjoy talking and making friends here. I may not talk much, I’m shy, but I can talk. I joined because I was curious about what church was like, and to start a new chapter of my life. I’m glad I did. Thank you
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