by Meghan Gage-Finn, Associate Pastor for Children, Youth & Families
“Just a closer walk with thee…”
These were the opening words of Anna's solo this past Sunday as we welcomed Confirmation students into membership and heard as they shared their faith stories with us. The song speaks of the desire to walk closer with Jesus, understanding that Jesus is our strength and guide. (Scroll to the bottom of this post and click the link to listen to Anna’s incredible singing in worship.)
In their Statements of Faith, our Confirmation students shared with us what they believe and what they hold onto as they grow in their faith, but they also shared their doubts and their questions. They expressed their wonderings about how big God is, how complex the Holy Trinity is, and how hard it is to grasp God’s saving love for us. These 20 young people gave voice to the questions so many of us wrestle with, and with honesty and integrity they took risks together this year as individuals and as a class. It is with joy and thanksgiving that we welcome them into the membership of Westminster and Christ’s church. They have a vision for 
Westminster Confirmation Class, September 25, 2011the church and their place in it. In the words of one of our students:
“When I think about Westminster, I think of an inviting and friendly place, where I know I am always welcome. I think that is one of Westminster’s roles, to be welcoming to anyone who wants to worship with us. Another one of our church’s roles is to get involved with important issues in the community and to help people who need it. I believe our church fulfills these roles. I think my role in our congregation is to listen and learn from leaders in the church. I also think it is to be a part of our youth group, and to help serve others with the church.”
It is truly a privilege to walk with our Confirmation students and their mentors through the year of listening and learning and discernment. My own faith is strengthened by the challenging questions they ask of me and of each other. They build us up as the Body of Christ and as a church and they reflect the grace, love, and nurturing they have received as children of Westminster over the years. These 20 new members are indeed a blessing, and we are blessed to be part of a church family where the promises of baptism are real and abide from generation to generation!
Just A Closer Walk With Thee, sung by Anna K.
Thursday, October 27, 2011 at 9:42AM 
If you heard Max and Meghan on Sunday, you know it's worth an encore listen. If you missed it, here's your chance! Click on the link below to listen to Max and Meghan and their Moment for Stewardship.