Senior address by Isabelle Bermudez
What Redeemer means to me.
Good morning. For as long as I can remember, Church of the Redeemer has been such a big part of my life. I’ve been blessed with so many opportunities to participate in the different ministries and programs here at Redeemer, but what stands out to me the most about those experiences are the people I’ve met along the way. This Redeemer community has been so influential in the development of my faith and the person I am.
There are three main things I’ve learned from Redeemer. The first is the power of God’s Word, and how relevant and inspirational it can be. Ephesians 3:20-21 reads, “Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us, to Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen.”
I first discovered these verses during a time when life was full of uncertainty, and I can honestly say that they changed my outlook and the way I approach life. I’d just started my senior year at a new school, I was beginning the college application process, and I was trying to figure out what I wanted to do with my life.
During this process and even beyond, these verses have been an incredible reminder of the magnitude of God’s plan and all He has in store. He is able to do immeasurably more in our lives. I still find myself going back and re-reading these verses. They are always the perfect reminder to keep my heart and mind open, because God, with all His power and might, is at work within me. Through Him, I will discover the immeasurably more that He has in store for me and fulfill the life He wants me to live.
The second thing I’ve developed at Redeemer is a deep appreciation for music. I’ve always appreciated the power of music and the way it can bring people together. Throughout my life, Redeemer has always provided great opportunities to experience music that glorifies God and celebrates life and love, even just on Sunday mornings. This has definitely encouraged my love of music. In college, I plan to major in Public Relations, and I hope to get involved in the music industry and help introduce the world to bands and artists whose music is empowering and inspiring.
Finally, the Redeemer community has taught me that God works through people to demonstrate His love. I’ve learned so much from the amazing people here at Redeemer, from my Sunday School teachers and ladies I volunteered with at the Thrift House, to the kids I got to know at Vacation Bible School and LOGOS, my friends in the Dominican Republic, and my awesome St. Mike’s family. As I get ready to start college at the University of Florida, I hope to find such a loving and supportive community as this one in Gainesville, and I hope to follow the wonderful example that so many people here have set for me. Thank you.
Youth address by Isabelle Bermudez
The Church of the Redeemer
Sarasota, Florida
Third Sunday of Easter
May 4 2014