Gilford Community Church youth complete confirmation

GILFORD — The Gilford Community Church had a Confirmation Celebration where each of the youth presented their overall journey to their mentors and families on June 6.

“This year we had five students participate in our confirmation class. Brynn Blackwelder, Bella Bryant, Anya Arenstam, Zach Arenstam and Brooke Baron have thoroughly impressed us all with their dedication, enthusiasm, critical thinking and positive energy throughout this journey,” said Director of Youth and Family Programs Amber McLane.

The five individuals chose a mentor to guide them through this year's sessions. Those mentors were Kathy Meierjurgen, Thom Francoeur, May Stewart, Lisa Buckley, Stacey Pate, and Cindie Graham. The mentors helped facilitate discussion, participated in monthly classes and church visitations.

"Compared to my own confirmation experience, this program allows the confirmands to explore their faith rather than prescribe it. Their final presentations suggest that they all had positive experiences at each church. This gives me hope that they will continue their faith journeys as they move through the world," said Meierjurgen.

The group was able to visit seven churches. During these visitations they attended services and had in depth conversations with the pastors, bishops, rabbis and priests. Their monthly meeting had structured time for reflection and a focus question students would have to discuss with their mentors. The focus questions ranged from praying, life after death, baptism and many more.

"I always walked away from the visits with a positive burst of energy. This process has helped me to understand how even if we all believe different things, the universal faith is to always be a kind and loving person,” said Blackwelder.

“This entire experience has been eye-opening, and I am so proud of our youth. Congratulations again to Anya, Zach, Brynn, Brooke and Bella,” said McLane.