It’s hard for me to think about Bradley Hills changing.  It’s where I grew up, it’s my second home, and it changing, really scares me.  I’m used to walking in here Sunday mornings and seeing so many familiar people.  I’m used to hearing snippets of conversation concerning politics, faith and everyday life.  I’m used to the educational hours where we ask the hard questions about our lives.  I’m used to the music and the youth group events.  I’m used to all of the different fundraisers and charitable events; Christmas just wouldn’t be Christmas without the Angel Gift Tree.  I don’t know where I would be without the community of the church; the love and the support that emanates everywhere.  I don’t think that what I’m used to will change that much.  What I’m used to is the essence, the spirit of the church. 

No matter how much it may scare me, Bradley Hills will change in the next 15 years.  In my opinion, any changes made, will be changes to improve Bradley Hills.  I see the church being more diverse.  Welcoming everybody, no matter their race, sexual preference or economic standing.  I see Bradley Hills working even more with the community to make the world a better place.  Continuing the work in Uganda and Romania but having started work in other parts of the world.  I see Bradley Hills doing even more for others, with members giving not only their money, but also their time.  I see Bradley Hills, continuing to fight for causes that the congregation believes in.  There is only one thing I hope that will have ended.  I hope that we won’t have to read the names anymore. *

(*Note:  Each week, a the 8:30 worship service, the Kallas family invites worshipers to reads all the names of soldiers who have died that week in Iraq).

Ms. Melissa Kallas
(17 years)