Acts 2:17 – In the last days, God says, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your young men will see visions, your old men will dream dreams. (NIV)

Currently, some of our young people are going through the process of confirmation (or church membership). Our youth leader is doing a wonderful job with them, and I'm attending the classes, more as an observer and adviser. As always, when I enter into a church teaching situation, I end up learning more about what I believe. Our young students bring vitality to the faith that we share, and I receive new insights into what they believe and what's important to them.

Last night, they composed a new statement of faith based upon what Presbyterians call the "Great Ends of the Church". Through their minds and with their ideas, I experienced a new understanding of what Church is all about and what it will become to future generations. Instead of being anxious and worried, I was both moved and impressed by what they wrote together. At their confirmation service, which will take place on the Day of Pentecost, our congregation will use their Statement of Faith in our morning liturgy. Here is what they have brilliantly written:

At Erin Presbyterian Church, we will seek to be God's people by:

• Declaring that Jesus Christ is the Saviour for all people.
• Caring for and providing a strong community of faith for all of God's children.
• Taking care of godly praise.
• Keeping the message of God alive.
• Encouraging the fair treatment of all people everywhere.
• Showing the world God's grace.

I think that the future of the Church is in very good hands, don't you?

Questions for personal reflection:

As a teenager, what were my views and vision of the Church? How have I fulfilled that vision in my life?

Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank You for the gift of our young people and for the vitality that they bring to our churches. May their thoughts and ideas be aligned to Your future vision of the life, ministry, and mission of the church to come. In Your holy name, we pray. Amen.

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About the author:

John Stuart <traqair@aol.com>
Knoxville, Tennessee, USA
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