The Rector's Ramblings...January 21, 2010

The Rev. Dr. Robert C. Sawyer, Rector 

As I began to write this edition of the "Rector's Ramblings" I realized I now stand at the beginning of the fifteenth year I have had the privilege of serving as your Rector.  When I arrived on January 21, 1996 I encountered a parish with a large number of young children who were full of energy and excited to be a part of this parish.  I can still remember being at fellowship activities in the old parish hall that doubled as the Shepherd's Table Soup Kitchen on weekdays and watching the children at play while the adults shared time with each other.  Even though we had no outdoor play sets the kids always seemed to be able to use the railings at the back of the parish hall as their own gymnastic set.  Their activities and antics always brought a smile to my face. 

Over the years I watched this group of outstanding young children grow and participate in the life of the church as members of Sunday School, the Acolyte Program, the Youth Choir, and the EYC Program.  Then, almost suddenly, they were young adults and I have begun to officiate at their weddings and even baptize their children. A generation had gone by in the blink of an eye.

Last Sunday, I talked with some of our new young children and their parents as part of our Grapes and Grains Program where our children learn about Communion.  Here I found myself face to face with a wonderful new group of children who were just as excited to be here as the generation of children who had come before them.  What a blessing it is to be a part of a parish where children are a vital part of our life together.

Jesus told the disciples to bring the little children to him and when the children came he blessed them.  How wonderful it is one of our special ministries at Good Shepherd is to provide a place for children to learn of the love of Jesus for them and to be blessed by that love.  Let us always live into this ministry for in doing so Good Shepherd will continue to grow and thrive throughout the years.

Dr. Sawyer leads the Grapes & Grains Class January 17, 2010