I have been going to church for most of my life and I have loved every minute of it. I have met some of my best friends and mentors there. My best friends and their siblings are the sisters and little brothers that I never had. Their parents are my second parents. They treat me like I have always been apart of their family.

My best friends and I have grown up so much together in the church, ever since fifth grade. We have pushed and challenged each other to grow in faith. We have answered each others questions. We have supported each other just like sisters. We go to each others performances and games. We may not see each other every day, but every Sunday we pick up right where we left off. I could not have asked for better sisters in Christ. I think there is no bond greater than that with your church family. My church family has always been super supportive and has loved me always.

There is a couple that goes to my church that have become my church grandparents. My family and I used to live across the street from them before we moved and they were first people to welcome us into the church. They have supported me ever since I was little and would play with their "granddaughter." Now they go to as many of my soccer games as they can. I love seeing them wearing their Simpson Soccer gear and sitting in the stands with my parents. I know that I can always count on them.

I appreciate my church family so much and am beyond blessed to be apart of the congregation. They have watched and helped me grow up to be the young woman I am today. They have challenged me to ask and answer difficult questions. They have helped me grow in faith. They have also taught me several lessons over the years. Here are a few of them.

1. They have taught me what it is like to believe in God and live out my faith.

Sometimes I forget to do this, but my church family is always there for support. I know I am no the only one who struggles with this.

2. They have taught me that it is okay to ask questions.

It is OK to have difficult questions. It is OK to question your faith. It is OK to ask the difficult questions. It will create a dialogue that will help you grow your faith.

3. They have taught me the importance of being kind and loving.

This may be hard sometimes. It can be easier to judge someone instead of love them, but I have learned that it is possible to love others and to be kind to them. I have also learned that a simple act of kindness, like opening the door for someone or giving someone a hug can make huge impact in their lives because you never know what someone is going through.

4. They have taught me the importance of giving back to others and to not take anything for granted.

It really is easy to give back. It is not a complicated thing. There are plenty of organizations to volunteer with. You just have to make an effort to have the time to volunteer. It is possible even if you are busy.

5. Most importantly, they have taught me about love, support and community.

This is my favorite thing about being apart of a church. There is always someone you can lean on and talk to. Someone is always there to lend a helping hand. They notice when you are having a bad day and will check on you. They make a point to reach out to a member who is hurting. They are not here to judge or criticize.

I am truly blessed to apart of Immanuel United Methodist Church. I could not have asked for a better church family. I love you all.