"I'm Preaching Today!"

DearMBchurch.ca:
            One Sunday last year in our church, a young mom and her seven year old daughter led the congregation in worship. They stood together in the pulpit: they welcomed people, they took turns reading scripture, they led the congregation in prayer with a words they had written together.
            When it came time for the children’s story, the little girl ran to join her friends at the feet of the storyteller. I was sitting there with the kids and I heard her lean over and whisper to her friend, “I’m preaching today.” She had such a big smile on her face.
            Boys and girls are nurtured in our church, nurtured to believe that God speaks through them, God works through them. I see their faith growing and deepening in a congregation where their voices are encouraged, where the gifts that the Holy Spirit gives them are recognized.
            I am thankful to be a part of this piece of the body of Christ, where I see good news like this. A place where there is neither male nor female, only followers of Jesus.

Love, Carol Penner, Lendrum MB Church, Edmonton, AB