Sunday provided me with a boost in confidence in my faith and in our youth as they prepare for the future.
It was Confirmation Sunday in our church as five eighth-graders displayed their new-found Christian knowledge and commitment to their church.
We were involved because Marley Harter had asked my Bobbi to be his mentor for the eight-week confirmation process. This was especially significant because Marley had recently lost his Grandma Dorine who would have been his mentor otherwise.
That honor coupled with Bobbi getting to know 14-year-old Marley better as they developed a habit of getting a drink together each Sunday allowing for time to visit.
Five youngsters: Emma Beatty, Grayson Combes, Cooper Legako, Brayden Sweet, and Marley participated in the service by leading scriptures and prayers. The Confirmands shared a favorite scripture and then were blessed by the ministers, family, and friends.
Brayden Sweet in explaining his choice said his scripture meant: God is the GOAT. That of course was referring to the acronym GOAT meaning Greatest of All Time – like Tom Brady or Michael Jordan!
Not only did that receive a round of laughter it was later mentioned by Pastor Karla explaining she’d received a text suggesting GOAT really means God of All Time!
Then, not to be outdone, Pastor Ron in his sermon pointed out goats are not always valued in the Bible referencing a passage about separating the goats and the sheep.
And as exciting as all that was there was yet another astonishing event when Sam Barrett and retired Pastor Mic Maguire sang “Be Not Afraid.” That performance became even more impressive when we realized Emma Beatty, one of the Confirmands was their excellent accompanist.
All in all, it was an inspiring sixty minutes where our youth displayed their talent, dedication, and commitment. It was very refreshing for this old codger! Our Emporia youth and my Bobbi too – are doing just fine! Amen!
I’m Steve Sauder
