I can?t speak highly enough about the commitment that each young person had for our work. They were mature about following up on some assignments, they were faithful to call and make - up any work they might have missed. The parents of Molly Cline, Kaitlyn Davenport, Lisa Myers, Zach Oglesby, Cole Pnazek, Brandon Rosso, and Daisy Sexton have much of which to be proud. So do the members of this congregation and other congregations who may have influenced these young people?s lives. Our time together has been a study of the reality of nurture, growth, and commitment that comes from good, solid Christian education, sound worship, and focus on mission and ministry. The Elliottsville church will reap great rewards from this group of young disciples.

These words would be incomplete without offering a thank you to the seven dedicated, Christian adults who served as mentors. Marcia Allen, Renee Brown, Nancy Gillis, Tim Blackmon, Scott Oglesby, Bob Hicks, and Chris Oyer gave of the time, the energy, and the love that God has gifted to them. Ministry is at its most effective when the children and youth of the church see the importance of that ministry demonstrated in the action, not just the words, of the adults they encounter. It is safe to say that the youth of this year?s confirmation class will never forget the work you all did with them and for them.

So, here I am on Monday afternoon ... in between finishing Sunday?s confirmation class time and celebrating the decisions that will be made public on Easter morning. This in between time is a godsend. Sometimes this week between Palm Sunday and Easter is overwhelming, and it?s easy to get caught up in accomplishing tasks instead of nurturing relationships, serving people, worshiping God. That almost happened today. The overwhelming part. But then, a lady called who needed some help with a utility bill. A mentor called to set up a time to meet with me and her young person. A good crowd of folks came and worshiped at our noon service. And, in ways both great and small, all of us were tending to the relationships God has placed in front of us. Relationships that will be made whole, complete, with the proclamation of resurrection this coming Sunday. Until then ... well, thanks be to God for all that we have to do!