Dear Friends:
Sunday, September 21, 2025, was truly a remarkable day at Trinity. Bishop Shannon Rogers Duckworth confirmed twenty-five high schoolers and one adult, received one adult into communion with the Episcopal Church, and heard the reaffirmation of another adult’s confirmation.
It was a mighty haul of fish, as the Apostle Peter might have put it. It was also a sign of the vitality and strength of a thriving community. It was a look into the future that God is leading this faithful community into.
The day was filled with solemn joy. Now that might sound paradoxical to you, but if you were present, you’ll know what I mean. For those who weren’t able to be present, let me explain.
For the past year, these students have met to receive instruction in the basics of the faith from our very capable Director of Formation, Ashley Bond, and her colleague, Lizzie Keene (pictured below). Ashley designed a program that required dedication and commitment on the part of the students.
Study of the Bible, the Book of Common Prayer, Anglican theology, and healthy spiritual practices formed the core of the curriculum. Lively discussions were had on these topics, but most importantly, real sharing about what’s going on in their lives in these challenging days as they move from childhood towards adulthood.
Another important part of Ashley’s innovative program was that each student also had an adult mentor not related to them who provided guidance, encouragement, and support. On the threshold of adulthood, these students were being grounded in their faith, forming lasting relationships with faithful adult mentors, and supporting and caring for one another as old friendships were deepened and new friendships were made.
On Saturday before Confirmation Sunday, a service called “I Confirm” was held. Each student had chosen a Scripture passage and was invited to offer a reflection on the passage to the assembled congregation.
The reflections were serious and meaningful. A couple of the students said that when they began this program, they just weren’t sure about this whole God thing. Their time together with their friends and teachers and mentors had brought them to an appreciation of the importance of faith in their lives.
A few others confessed to being worriers and told us that their deepening faith was bringing them deeper peace. Others said that being on the journey with a community was pretty darn wonderful.
And as you might imagine, their adult mentors got as much from the experience as did their students. Suffice to say, the event was truly inspirational for us all.
Which brings us to Sunday. What a day! A full house greeted Bishop Shannon and the confirmands and families.
The music was beautiful. The Bishop’s sermon tied the promises that the confirmands were making to their call to service in the world, so many came to the Table to receive the sacrament that we almost ran out of bread. A good problem to have!
I said a moment ago that the mood was one of solemn joy. The rite of passage that these young people were experiencing with such grace clearly marked a transition point toward adulthood. Thus, the solemnity. The love expressed by their families and mentors and the entire congregation filled the room with joy. Solemn joy.
The Holy Spirit was flying all around that nave. As the choir and altar party processed out to a swinging version of “I Have Decided to Follow Jesus” it was as if the building was lifted about six inches off the ground.
As Trinity moves forward toward the beginning of the search for the next Rector, let’s remember this day. A true representation of what Trinity is and has always been.
A place of celebration, a place of service, a place where the Lord Jesus is known and being made known, a place where lives are being transformed.
Many blessings,
Lex
