Confirmations sunday evening

Having Worshipped many came back in the afternoon to literally bring stones and to pick up stones to act as the hardcore for the new toilet block they plan on building before I leave. When you see grandmas with a large metal bowl on their heads filled with stones, with their grandchild tied to their back, you know they are serious. I was not allowed to dig for stones a bit hard for me to sit and watch, I really wanted to help. The heat however, the need for shade and to be polite meant I restrained myself. But I continued to be staggered by their hard work and commitment.

The Sunday school teacher came with stones and then helped to pick more. 

The young men's fellowship motto is worship witness and work. And work they did in the searing heat.

Prayer time followed this activity as they walked around the church praying and it was just very natural.

This led into the confirmation service. 

Again people gathered, as 13 men and women made their promises. Eric very graciously ( i should mention Eric is the minister) passed the service over to me. So assisted by his wife Mary I led the confirmation , then realised I had to preach and then celebrate communion for the 13 confirmed individuals. 

The expectation that people will come into a relationship with God is normal. I think it stands in stark contrast to where much of the church in the UK is. 

It was very touching to be confirming these men and women of all ages, and what a testimony to the truth the church of Jesus is one. The Methodist family of churches needs to celebrate its unity more.