It certainly is fitting to say, “Thank You” to caring Sunday School and Confirmation staff at the close of the education/youth year (last day of Sunday School is May 18th.).  Likewise, to Youth Ministry Leaders, who still lead on into summer!

     These dedicated people represent all of us, the whole congregation, as they plunge into the teaching ministry of Faith Lutheran Church.  They do represent all of us.  Check out the Baptism liturgy next chance you get.  As a congregation, we tell the parents of each baptized child that we will be here to support them and their (our) precious child.  A child that is also God’s precious child…..

   
   These teachers and leaders represent all of us in the care of each child.  They seem to take the task both seriously and not-so-seriously.  Seriously, when one considers their dedication, their caring, their lesson preparation, and their planning.  This would also go for the Education Committee which supports and directs the teaching staff, Sunday School Superintendents, Confirmation teachers, and the Youth Committee that plays a support role to our youth of all ages.

     But, they also take their task not-so-seriously, when one considers their lack of sterness, and their warm, friendly nature with their beloved students.  These folks well represent the compassion of the Gospel and the gentleness of our Lord.  The staff this year has cared for the young Christians among us, seeking to enrich their lives through learning and growth in faith.  And, these teachers and leaders have partnership with parents in mind.  In education, youth, and music ministry, our leaders and coordinators have represented the entire Faith community well.  They look to grow these ministries further yet with the help and support of the whole congregation.

     We entered into this ministry of ours at Baptism.  When a child is baptized into the community of faith, we take responsibility for providing for the child’s instruction in the Christian faith, along with the parents.  The congregation, as part of the cast of characters in the Baptism, is represented by the congregational representative who presents the Baptismal candle to the parents.  We then go on to live out our congregational responsibility and care through Sunday School, Vacation Bible School, and Confirmation (which also includes First Communion instruction).  Thanks to Sunday School and Confirmation staff, and to youth leaders, for representing US in ministry to youth!  And, if you would like to be a part of it next Fall, please call to volunteer.

You know, we are in pretty good company in our care of the child among us…Recall Jesus’ words:

        “Let the children come to me, do not hinder them;
          for to such belongs the Kingdom of God.
          Truly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the
          Kingdom of God like a child, shall not enter it,
          and He took them in His arms and blessed them,
          laying His hands upon them”   Mark 10:14-16

Thanks, Teachers!  Teachers in the classroom, Teachers in Youth Ministry and Music……and ALL Teachers of the Faith!
  

 -Pastor David Beckstrom