May 6, 2007 - Confirmation Sunday

Confirmation Sunday was May 6th and a fantastic experience on so many levels

2007-05-06 Confirmation Class

The day started with an examination by the Session held in the Manse, next to the Church. Statements of Faith were read by those students who chose to join the Church. After the students, parents made statements about the pride they have in their children - a very powerful experience. Once a motion was made, seconded, and approved, the Class of 2007 was welcomed into membership, along with 2 adult members by reaffirmation of their faith.

The worship service was next and included BOTH of the sacraments of the Presbyterian Church (who knows what they are? ... That's right, Baptism and Communion). Confirmands read excerpts from their individual Statements of Faith as the text of parts of the worship service. All the new members then gathered around the Baptismal font as a symbol of their confirming the vow their Parents made for them at baptism, and Brooklyn presented herself for baptism at this time. Rev. Beth preached a great sermon on John 13:31-35, Jesus charging his disciples: "I leave you with this new commandment to love one another as I have loved you." The Confirmation Class teachers each had a special message for the class, and gifts were presented by the teachers and mentors to the class. With Communion and (the usual) fantastic music - including a piano piece by Harry, and an anthem by Jill - the service was concluded and everyone was invited upstairs to the Elliott Room.

The parents of the class provided a wonderful meal and reception for the entire congregation after worship. Pizza, chicken, salad, veggie wraps, drinks, and desserts (ask Ed about where to get a great sheet cake!) were shared, still MORE pictures were taken, and additional gifts were given - this time it was the parents recognizing the hard work of the Confirmation Class teachers.

A meaningful day; an affirming experience; a community welcoming a community.