Church of the Redeemer has played an integral role in my development into a young man. While most kids are sleeping in on Sunday mornings, I’ve always enjoyed getting up early to partake in the Sacrament and be a part of a church community that devotes so much time and resources to its youth.
Reminiscing on the past in order to formulate this address has really put my time here into perspective. I’ve gone from learning about Jonah and the whale with water toys at Vacation Bible School to helping impoverished communities while also being latched onto by a football sized octopus in the middle of the Dominican Republic (that’s a long story). The highlight of each of my last three years has been the mission trips to the Dominican Republic. These trips have helped me to better understand the work of Jesus’ disciples because I am able to spread the Word in surroundings that are foreign to me. At home, whether it is a theology lesson in Sunday school or an apologetics lesson at EYC, I know that each and everything that the mentors at Redeemer teach is beneficial to my faith in Christ. One of the most memorable experiences that I have had was getting my feet washed at the Maundy Thursday service in 7th grade. I always try to take a step back and think about this act because it is easy to get caught up in serving myself instead of doing what Jesus’ calls me to do and serve others. Just as I look to this experience for guidance, I know I can look to all of the clergy here for support in my faith journey.
It will no doubt be a sobering experience leaving Redeemer behind this fall, but because of the guidance and support that I have received from this parish family, I know that I am well-equipped for the trials and tribulations that I will inevitably face in my college years and beyond. Thank you, Church of the Redeemer, for helping me to develop the tools that I need to live a godly life.
The Church of the Redeemer
Sarasota Florida
6 Sunday of Easter
1 May 2016