Chris Mitchell to become an LEM...
... and he's only 17 years old...
If you're looking to find Chris, he shouldn't be to hard to spot! The 6'2" 295 pound High School Junior quickly catches your attention - whether on the football field as a top College football prospect, or serving as the Crucifer during a worship service. "Chris is an exceptional young man," says Fr. Russell Worrell, Chris' priest and the Rector of Coventry Anglican Church in Alabaster, AL. "He's a true leader among his peers - well respected for his faith in Christ." Chris has served as an Acolyte for over 5 years. When he was first trained, he could barely see over the altar.
"I've known Chris since he was no taller than my waist - over 10 years ago," remembers Bp Derek Jones. "But, God has always had intentions for this young man; of that there is no doubt." Bp Jones recalls how quickly Chris would pick up ceremony and ritual, and could give a solid apologetic for liturgical worship after hearing it but one time. "I remember when he corrected the Bishop and me as we were preparing the altar at our new church home back a few years ago," recalls his grandfather and Deacon Maurice McKissack. "...the Bishop and I just looked at each other for a second, and then fixed the table the right way!"
As a yet to be High School Senior, some may question why such a young man is given such a huge responsiblity in ministry. The answer is simple, Chris isn't your typical young man. In fact, the consensus was unanimous for his selection to become an LEM. A special service is planned for Chris, and others moving into specialized ministry, at Coventry Anglican Church in Alabaster on November 23rd. Chris will then be part of a concerted visitation plan to hospitals and homebound during the Advent season. He's also looking forward to assisting Fr. Russell from time to time with the Eucharist during Sunday morning worship.