Another step forward! This Sunday is Baccalaureate Sunday when we celebrate the achievements of our graduating high school students. In a year like no other, Gabriella Chin, Kerry Ann Hohenshilt, Spencer Hurley, and Colin McAulay all completed their senior years. Gabby and Colin will speak, Spencer will acolyte, and Kerry Ann will usher. Then, we will gather outside for a fellowship celebration with single serving food options following diocesan and CDC guidelines.
That is what we do at St. Peter’s - we move forward in answer to God’s call in whatever way circumstances at the time permit. Our youth have been a sign of that commitment.
They have been active in our youth group this year - determined to find ways to be together and to serve in the midst of the pandemic. They were even able to have a socially distanced pancake breakfast in Crossroads, being the first to use the new kitchen and hall! The valentine gifts they made for our shut-ins deeply touched many in our congregation.
I have always been impressed with the youth of St. Peter’s. They are deeply committed to serving the community, looking after one another, and exploring their faith. Our parish has traditions that gives them strong mentors and friendships to support them in their journey. We are a witness that no one is alone.
As we celebrate our youth, we must also give thanks for their mentors, their teachers, and all who work with them along the way. Mayra Caceres and Tina Crafton have been creative, faithful, committed, and supportive as youth group leaders. They find that perfect balance between fun and service, and between letting youth lead and gently pointing in helpful directions as needed. They are strong advocates and we all are blessed by their ministry.
As we celebrate this year, I also want to note that Drew Langa graduated last year. Due to the pandemic, we could not have baccalaureate (for which Drew was probably thankful!), but I need to give a shout out to Drew for his dedicated service at the community suppers. We send our prayers and best wishes as he continues in college.
I also want to note that we have many active graduating college seniors, Connor Crafton-Tempel from Rowan, Paul Cuffari from William Patterson, Anthony Lotti from University of Pennsylvania, Lucas MacKenzie from Rochester Institute of Technology, and John McAulay from Fordham.
As our active confirmation class shows, we also have a new wave of teens moving forward.
Ministering (which means serving) with our youth keeps us a church for all ages and helps our youth find the resiliency they need for today’s world. Honoring the different ways God is at work in each of them shows us the diversity of callings God has for each of us. This is what keeps a church vibrant, vital, and relevant. Thank you for your commitment to being that kind of community.
And, well done good and faithful servants!
Blessings Always!
Dirk+