Many friends have encouraged us to cherish the time with our children, as the years go by so quickly. In worship today, we experienced a baptism, a crying child, and a celebration of members who have committed to teaching and mentoring our children and youth this coming year. As we sat with our grown daughter, I reflected on her own baptism, toddler years “vocalizing” in worship, the many years singing with the children’s choirs and ringing bells, and her involvement in worship, fellowship, and mission. Through participation in various ministries, and members walking alongside our children, this church community has shaped them into individuals infused with faith, confidence, and love. This partnership between home and church has been crucial to their faith formation. We love our church family! As a church community, we make the following promise whenever a child is baptized. It helps me to read it out loud after reading it together in worship, as a reminder of what the church has done for our family, and as I continue to nurture the children in our community.
With joy and thanksgiving, we welcome you into Christ’s church to share with us in his ministry, for we are all one in Christ. We promise to love, encourage and support you, to share the good news of the gospel with you, and to help you know and follow Christ.
Marilyn Smith, artist
Bread for the Journey 