Growing in Faith

This past weekend I officiated at both a baptism and a funeral service.  The baptism was for my Great Grand Niece, who is now all of four month's old.  The funeral was for a parishioner who died shortly

after her first great grandchild was born.  Margaret was born in 1929.

Both ends of the spectrum.  One a celebration rooted in hope and dreams for the future, as Dacianna Lee Meher begins her journey of faith.  The other rooted in thanksgiving for the life of Margaret who has completed that journey.  Funny, isn't it, how both of these services can prompt tears?  Tears of joy, tears of sorrow--and tears of gratitude.

I was very blessed to have known Margaret, she was such a fine soul!  And I look forward to getting to know Dacianna as she grows into the person she will become.  

This coming Sunday we will celebrate a Service of Confirmation, as young people in our congregation affirm their decision to make the Way of Jesus their own.  One of the promises they will make is "to grow in the Christian faith." 

I guess, in the end, that really is what this life is all about.  Growling in faith, growing in hope, growling in love.  Knowing Margaret, knowing Dacianna, knowing our confirmands, has certainly helped me to grow as well!

(Photo:  Dacianna Lee Meher and Uncle John.)