10/27/2026
On Sunday we offered a blessing for Rev. Allison Bright as we celebrated her good ministry at First Christian Church and God's continued calling on her life as she becomes the Senior Minister at Community Christian Church in Kansas City. Here's just a small excerpt:
This blessing has been forming for a long time.
It’s been forming in the youth room and the baptismal
On the prayground and at Bethany Hills
In words written in fresh paint on the walls that remind our youngest and our oldest of God’s expansive and affirming love.
This blessing has been forming.
In the ways you have shown up in the lives of God’s people
In the moments of care, belonging, grace
In the questions that have no answers
In the courage to keep listening to God’s call
This blessing is one written through experience, through the moments of abundant joy and celebrations of milestones, in unexpected transitions, in the literal sweat and the actual tears, in the showing up the best you can with all you can however you can
This blessing is one that is written by whom you gave so much of your heart, your time, your care.
So hear now these words, formed by those whom you have shaped and who certainly have shaped you:
Students: When I think of you, I’ll tell the story of belonging,
Of how you listened without judgment
Helped me grow in faith
I’ll tell about how you were “sweet as a flower”, always kind and encouraging
We know new places can be hard
Intimidating
Scary
May you remember you are courageous
May you try new things
Recognize your limits
Remember you don’t have to be perfect
Be yourself, because God called you:
You are strong, beautiful, a light in this world
Every new place is an adventure, and as you go on yours, we pray you remember God loves you no matter what
ALL: We love you
We thank you
God is with you
For this New Beginning, from the words of John O’Donhue we offer this closing prayer: Awaken your spirit to adventure; hold nothing back, learn to find ease in risk; soon you will be home in a new rhythm, for your soul senses the world that awaits you.
