Growing Up at Salem
Posted on Apr 28, 2026 by Heather Lewis
This June is my 16-year anniversary of becoming Salem’s worship and music director. This Sunday, as we honor our graduates, I’m thinking about how old my kids were when Salem became our church family: Casey (graduating from college) was in first grade, and Brandon (graduating from high school) was 2 years old. Whoa.
We are celebrating 15 fantastic graduates this Sunday: six from high school, seven with bachelor’s degrees, and two with post-graduate degrees. I have been blessed to watch all of these kids grow up at Salem, and I’m so thrilled that they still feel a connection here! As a parent, I want to thank you for your part in their faith journeys. These kids have been with us in our many transitions over the past seven years, yet our congregation is always a place they can call home. They have all been equipped with the confidence to go out and achieve their dreams, knowing that they are loved and respected.
Thank you, our beloved congregation, for always supporting our kids. Salem is a place where we look out for each other, encourage and care for each other. Kids feel safe enough to lead worship with singing and reading, because you tell them how much you appreciate them. Kids joyfully learn about how Jesus wants us to live, because you take the time to teach them. Young adults know that we send them out into the world with pride and joy, and will welcome them back with open arms when they can return. I thank God for your blessings in our children’s lives.
In Christ’s love,
Heather Lewis
Director of Worship and Music
Director of Youth Ministries