We would like to encourage all youth to make a profession of their faith. In part, it is a step for the youth to publicly proclaim what he or she believes. Jesus is not just one-on-one. Jesus is about a community. As believers, we want to make steps into community, not stand apart from it. Profession of Faith is one way to intentionally connect with the fellowship of believers.
Granted, it's not a do or die thing. It doesn't save anyone to do it in this way. A person's heart in connection with Christ is the main deal.
Yet, God encourages connection.
"Here I stand. Here is what I believe...." And the response? "We support you and will walk with you!"
All members have a role in raising a youth in the faith. When a youth stands before the congregation, together everyone can affirm their part to support and encourage a youth to grow in maturity. (Granted, this takes some intention on everyone's part beyond a pledge of a few words.)
To help youth prepare to profess their faith, 6 or 7 guided sessions with a mentor are completed. The study "I Believe" will be used. It's straightforward and easy to grasp. Some brief reads and reflections are done during the week with a follow-up discussion with the mentor. This nice thing about this plan is that a relationship in faith is created. Questions are raised and processed.
It's really a path to know God better and to more accurately declare what we believe.
Please speak to the youth pastor about beginning these sessions.
Profession of Faith
