There’s poetry to Confirmation, a lyricism that lifts the spirits each Spring.

Sixty-one youngsters were confirmed Sunday (May 31) in the Sanctuary – seventh-graders eager to stand and accept responsibility for their own Christian formation after a year of study and prayer. Their parents stood as well to stand by that commitment, and the congregation agreed to create a community of love and forgiveness so that young faith might flourish. A few who couldn’t make will be confirmed June 14. This past Sunday, three had the added blessing of being baptized.

A golden moment came at the processional. The kids were so eager to march in and proclaim their commitment that they nearly ignored the cue to enter slowly, creating instead this stately stampede. What a hopeful morning for the future of the church, the world really, these young people agreeing to serve it with all their heart and soul.

But as rich as the service is each year, it’s the worship bulletin insert that gets to me the most.

The tradition at Myers Park United Methodist is to share the name and school of each confirmand, then to have each youngster write a brief reflection. Much of it is goofy sweetness – they love sleeping, eating, talking on the telephone, Taylor Swift, soccer, shopping and summer. One young man this year shared his passion for sushi, and that his dog is named Zoe. One young lady said that despite what some might think, she does not like to listen to classical music. One confirmand this year could have used an interpreter. He said his favorite phrase is “Word up and turn up the heat!!” I’ll assume that means, “I plan to be at church every Sunday from now on.”

Beyond the expected, though, are unexpected reflections that speak of love, joy, warmth, honesty and openness, a new song for a world that needs to change its tune…

“I am very excited about joining the United Methodist Church. I like that the United Methodist Church is accepting of other religions. I very much hope that you accept me into your church.”

“…I like laughing more than anything else in the whole world! I love making new friends. I always speak my mind.”

“I recently went on a mission trip to Costa Rica and had a great time getting to know all the community kids.”

“On the 18th of April, I walked for my friend…who has diabetes.”

I’m a positive person. I try to make the best of things. I laugh more than I breathe.”

We confirmed 61 young people Sunday, Christians ready to positively be a force for goodness wherever they go.

All I can say is, Word Up.