There isn't much I can add to Pastor Young's presentation, but I'll try. Conventions have delegates because someone has to show up for committee meetings. Whether Trinity sent a large or small group, we represented Trinity proudly. My strongest memory is the mass communion closing services. For many of us, conventions were our first trip outside Faribault without parents - as your chaperone parents or grandparents probably have told you. Trinity Faribault, or at best, southern Minnesota, was our religious world. Conventions confirmed that, where two or three are gathered together, there always is the Lord....and I don't expect to get quizzed on that quote by my elders.
Today youth are well travelled early on. The opportunities for spreading the Word of the Lord are greater than ever before. Throughout life, God is consistent, even if we aren't. If I'd been told 40 yrs. ago as I left Trinity that it would be expected of me to be here, sharing the faith with this inter-generational group, I'd needed a dictionary to spell inter-generational. Today, I understand more than ever how much generations can give each other, and give back to the Lord.
We are so thankful to be here, again representing Trinity as our first church home which always welcomes its children. There will be many funny, probably embarressing, stories shared here today. But, if I can pick on the Nienow family one more time, I'd like to share this.
In Dec., 99, my 90 yr. old mother, Edna Ballenthin, member of Trinity since the 20s, passed away. And, as many of you are familiar, Boldt Funeral Home handles arrangements. You also know what a difficult, emotional, confusing time it is for a family. As my daughters and I greeted family and friends, I felt a hand on my shoulder. I have seen Mrs. Nienow through the years, but at that precious moment - well, with a big hug I exclaimed "Mrs. Nienow!" In her truly reassuring way, she said it was OK to call her Mavis now, REALLY! The Lord shouldn't have to wait 40 yrs. for that validation. We are relieved to see you've made such a wonderful start. We are here to support you. Thank you.
