We have been asking Belmonters to consider what they are “celebrating as a community of Christ followers.” The theme of celebrating found its beginning in the worship service we attended in Swaziland. The service featured several offerings of money, but one was an offering to help provide housing for the homeless. Members of the church brought their offerings forward and gave a witness of thanksgiving, thanking God for families and homes. Each person’s offering was accompanied with celebratory singing and dancing. As we make our commitments to support the ministries of Belmont, what are we celebrating?

There are lots of things on my list of celebrations, and I would like to share just a few of those. As a parent and a pastor I have always been grateful for the wonderful children and youth ministries of the churches I have served. My children have been blessed by the presence of other caring and nurturing adults, teachers, staff members, and counselors who loved them and helped them grow in their discipleship. My adult sons have continued friendships with many of the persons who nurtured their early years of faith. 

At Belmont, Heather Harriss, Children’s Pastor, has helped create an environment of learning and grace that has blessed the lives of our children and their families. At Belmont I am grateful for youth ministries, Youth Pastor Lanecia Rouse, youth members and adult volunteers who have meant so much to our son. In addition, I am grateful that Gayle Sullivan has inspired him to sing in the Open Door Singers, to play handbells with the Wesley Ringers and to develop a deeper understanding of the theology of worship.

I celebrate the people of Belmont who love us and who hold us accountable to do our best, to grow in our faith, to take bold stands for justice, to reach out into the world in ministry, and to care for those who are pushed to society’s margins. I celebrate their friendships and the rich environment of their fellowship. And as we move into our Centennial year, I celebrate the bright future that awaits us as we continue to live as faithful disciples of Jesus Christ.

 

< Prev		Next >