UDLC Stories: Jennifer Kennedy
When I moved to Dresher twenty-three years ago, I needed to find a pastor for my fiance and I to meet with. My hometown church required a session at a religious institution to discuss marriage prior to our ceremony. Little did I know that when I walked through the glass doors and into the church office at Upper Dublin Lutheran Church I would find so much more.
As newlyweds Travis and I looked forward to attending services each week. We enjoyed the inspiring srmons, uplifting music and welcoming congregation. We admired the generous outreach and were drawn to the robust youth programs. When my parents, Chris and Fred Loomis, relocated to the area, they quickly joined and became actively involved.
Years later my dad stood up in church to share his terminal cancer diagnosis. Pastor Keith and the entire UDLC community rallied behind him. Their support has deepened our faith and strengthened our spirits.
Both of my teenage sons were baptized, recieved first communion and were confirmed at Upper Dublin Lutheran Church.
I vividly remember my youngest son Tyler’s baptism on a sunny September morning during outdoor worship at Roland’s Glen. It happened to fall on Rally Day, the kick off celebration to mark the beginning of Sunday School. Each class carried signs and sang songs of praise as they marched in. The children gathered around Pastor Lawlor while she cradled Tyler in front of the altar. Four-year old Kyle bounced around in excitement, happy to be with his new teacher and classmates. What a gift for my children to begin their faith journey surrounded by this breathtaking display of God’s beauty, mercy and love.
“Upper Dublin Lutheran Church’s message of love, generosity, acceptance and inclusion remains consistent with the values we want to instill in our children. ”
Last month as 18-year old Kyle stood before the congregation during Senior Sunday, I reflected on UDLC’s role in his childhood. My boys grew up looking forward to Sunday Schools, VBS and confirmation activities. I am grateful for the dedicated members of our congregation that helped them establish a solid faith foundation by providing impactful experiences.
Over the years, Travis and I volunteered as teachers, leaders and organizers for UDLC’s wonderful youth programs. Offering our time was a rewarding investment in not only out church, but also our family.
Upper Dublin Lutheran Church’s message of love, generosity, acceptance and inclusion remains consistent with the values we want to instill in our children.
We setup Simply Giving donations because we did not want our financial contributions to be limited by our attendance.
We give our time and our money because it is more important than ever to support and strengthen our church’s missions. Investing in UDLC is investing in our church leaders, our congregation, our world and our community.