|
Today, as I reflect on this year’s Confirmation Class, who will be confirmed this coming Sunday, I find myself getting a bit nostalgic as I remember 30 classes of young people in my ministerial career as I enter my final year of full-time ministry. I thank God for the courage, faith, and commitment of all the young people, and now young adults, whom I have had the honor of spending time with as they walk their journey of faith. In a world that often pulls young people in many directions, all who chose to pause, reflect, ask hard questions, and publicly affirm their desire to follow the way of Jesus Christ, have a special place in my heart.
Confirmation is not about having every answer. It is about saying “yes” to a journey of faith — a journey rooted in love, justice, compassion, and hope. It is a sacred moment when young people claim for themselves the promises first spoken at baptism and recognize that they are not simply the future of the church; they are the church right now.
This group of young people we have walked with this past year has been one of the inspiring by their honesty, wisdom, and spiritual depth. We are blessed to welcome them as members of our church and as Christians who exemplify the works and ministry of Jesus Christ. They remind me to see the world with openness and possibility. Their questions have challenged me to grow deeper in my own faith. And their compassion calls the church to live more fully into Christ’s message of welcome and service.
In the United Church of Christ, we have long believed that God is still speaking, and often God speaks powerfully through the voices of young people. This class will help to shape a church that is more loving, more courageous, and more faithful to the Gospel.
To every confirmand: thank you for your willingness to learn, to serve, to care for others, and to step forward in faith. The church is stronger because of you. Your presence is a blessing, and your voice matters deeply in the life of Christ’s church.
May God continue to guide you, strengthen you, and remind you always that you are beloved, called, and never alone.
RB
2026
|