Today Alec affirmed his baptism and became a member of the Lutheran Church. He and ten of his friends, with whom he studied Luther's Small Chatechism, publicly professed their faith and their intent to continue in the covenant God made with them in holy baptism:
*to live among God's faithful people,
*to hear the word of God and share in the Lord's Supper,
*to proclaim the good news of God in Christ through word and deed,
*to serve all people, following the example of Jesus,
*and to strive for justice and peace in all the earth.
Alec's friend, Trevor, came to celebrate with us, as well as his Grandma. It was nice to have them there to share the day. Not only was the ceremony beautiful, but there was a sweet slideshow just before that took us from birth to present for each Confirmand. What a great way to share the lives of these amazing youth with family and friends.
We give you thanks, O God, that through water and the Holy Spirit you give us new birth, wash us from sin, and raise us to eternal life. Stir up in Alec Rayfield the gift of your Holy Spirit; the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and might, the spirit of knowledge and fear of the Lord, the spirit of joy in your presence, both now and forever. Amen.
