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I was thinking about all of this as I watched the latest group of confirmands go through the process. Wendy and I were privileged to lead the discussion at two of the weekly class sessions and were also able to accompany the group on their retreat to Anne Cross’ Mathews County home. I was very impressed during our class discussions at the knowledge displayed by each confirmand as well their sincere commitment to God. Just as importantly, I was impressed by their support for and commitment to each other. It reminded me once again of what I learned in my own confirmation class; the experience creates a bond between the participants that lasts a lifetime.

As much as anything else, St. Paul’s provides our young people the opportunity to question the world around them; to explore their feelings and to grow individually and together in an environment that is safe, supportive and loving. As we spent time with these young folks kayaking, laughing, swimming, talking and worshiping it also became clear to me that the experience formed a bond between the youngsters and the adult chaperons that I will value forever.

I think back often to my childhood at St. Paul’s Church. I think of the friendships I made; I think of the many adventures I shared with friends. I think of the days and nights I spent at the Rectory with Tommy Heins and other friends getting into one thing after another. I think of the gently guiding hands of Paul and Claire Heins; so much so that we never even knew that we were following where they wanted us to go. I think of the adults, including my parents, that although at the time I often considered as overbearing, I now see as just filling the role that each of us has assumed during our own adulthood.

As I watched Bishop Johnston confirm the most recent group just a few weeks ago all of this passed through my mind. The continuous thread of St. Paul’s Church grew once more as was clearly evident in the excitement and anticipation in each confirmand as they stood to make their commitment. Thank you to Eric Drudge, Emily Beaudin, Stephen Walker, Paige Lambert, John Price, Lexa Rowland and Lauren Farrell for your friendship and for committing yourself to God and the Episcopal Church. Thank you also to the adult confirmands Greg Price, Sharon Walker, Dianne Freeman and Donna Walker. We welcome all of you as members of St. Paul’s Church. I can’t tell you how proud I was as I watched your confirmation. I know that God was proudly watching too.

Faithfully, Scott

Entry is open to adults and children of St. Paul’s. Many talented and skilled parishioners will display works in a variety of media. You may recall the art show of five years ago when talented parishioners came forward with paintings in watercolors and oils, jewelry, fine handmade furniture, drawings, woodcarvings and many other fine pieces.

This year adults are asked to submit paintings in oils, watercolor, acrylic, tempera and encaustic, and soft, hard or oil pastels. Mixed media is invited , plus photography—both digital and film—sculpture and ceramics, crafts, knitting, crochet, quilting and textile work.

Youth are invited to submit oil, watercolor and acrylic paintings, and in soft, hard or oil pastels. Also youth skilled in pencil drawing, colored pencils, charcoal and crayon drawing are encouraged to submit work. Digital and film photographs, ceramics, sculpture and carving are further categories for youth, as well as crafts, knitting, crochet, quilting, and works in various textiles.

These categories provide room for all kinds of artists, so look over your work, finish works in progress, and create something new for our show. This is a chance to let your light shine so others can see the gifts with which God has blessed you.

Contact Jeanette Wagner or Ann Long if you have any questions.

What a day! We had a baptism and a reception!