August 25, 2019
Today, several congregations close to Stony Point Center, many from the Hudson River Presbytery, will host the 2019–20 YAV class for Commissioning Sunday. This day acts as a reminder to both the Young Adult Volunteers (YAVs) and our Church that we do not go alone in God’s mission.
YAVs, ranging in age from 19–30, have gathered these past few days for a week of orientation before embarking on their year of service. Representatives from local congregations commit to transporting a group of YAVs to and from Stony Point, hosting the group for worship, commissioning the volunteers during the service and providing a meal for good community and conversation. This acts as a nice retreat for the YAVs following an intense week of training. It also is a beautiful example of hospitality — something YAVs will continue to experience throughout their year at over 15 different sites in the United States and around the world. Each congregation gains unique insight into a young adult’s call to service and the amazing opportunities available during a YAV year. This past Thursday, a representative from each church was also invited to attend worship with the entire YAV class during their nightly vespers.
The Young Adult Volunteer program is encouraged by each faith community’s willingness to honor our Church’s commitment to baptism by walking alongside these young adults through their entire faith journey.
Blake A. Collins, Former Associate for Recruitment & Relationships, Young Adult Volunteers, Presbyterian Mission Agency
Revised Common Lectionary Readings for Sunday, August 25, 2019, the Twenty-First Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year C)
First Reading Jeremiah 1:4-10
Psalm 71:1-6
Second Reading Hebrews 12:18-29
Gospel Luke 13:10-17
Today’s Focus: Young Adult Volunteer Commissioning Sunday
Let us join in prayer for:
PC(USA) Agencies’ Staff
Alicia Demartra-Pressley, PMA
Sheldon Dennis, BOP
Let us pray:
God of invitation and hospitality, we are grateful for the Young Adult Volunteers about to embark on a transformational year of service in places where your Spirit is already present and at work. We thank you for the communities near and far that are willing to walk beside and shape these young people, both today and during the year. May the relationships made today be blessed, may the stories shared be honored, may the year ahead be formational and long-lasting, and may the experiences gained continue to change our Church to better reflect your will. In Christ’s name, we pray. Amen.