Dear Friends,
Today we extend a very warm welcome to Rev Fiona Smith who has come to share with us on this very special day in the life of our congregation. Many of us know Fiona well and have been looking forward to seeing her for quite some time, and we all look forward to what she has to say to us. We also extend a warm welcome to our visitors, family and friends of those making vows before God today, those who have known Fiona for a long time, and those who are simply here on holiday. You are all most welcome.
To make vows before God and his people, to offer a life in service, is at the same time a huge privilege and if not a little daunting, so I want to share with you some of my personal feelings when I confirmed my baptismal vows and made public profession of faith as a teenager. I don’t know what I was expecting to happen, but I know that I came away a changed person. The same happened again when I became an elder, and again when I was ordained as a minister of Word and Sacrament. Making vows before God and his people, if we take it seriously, is life changing and life enhancing, and I am sure it will be so for those doing so here today.
For those who made these same vows many years ago, this is also a special day as we mark many years of faithful service, and we give thanks for all that has been freely given in the service of Christ, His church, and His people. Not everyone who could have done, wanted to receive a certificate, but we give thanks for everyone here today, those young in the life of the church, those who have served in various capacities for many years, and those receiving certificates to mark their service. A life of faith and service is at the same time a privilege and an adventure. It is both demanding and fulfilling, and we ask God’s blessing on all sharing in this service today.
With love and blessings,
Marion
Categories: Minister's Blog