A few Sundays ago, John 6:1-13 was read in many faith congregations. It is the story of the multiplication of two fishes and five barley loaves offered by a child to feed five thousand men, not counting the women or children. I can’t picture how this miracle happens, and what the disciple must have said after seeing people sitting and chatting after a great meal. I can only thank God for the abundant blessings He has given His people. 

A few months back, Rio Texas received nine scholarship applications from students across the Conference. In addition to recommendations, signatures, and grades; the applications contained a brief statement about each person’s dreams. Each student described how they serve their community and how the scholarship will help them reach their goals. It reminds me of the child stepping forward and offering what he had, not knowing how God would use it to bless a multitude.

The Scholarship Committee prayed and discerned who would receive the four $500 scholarships. The common expression among the members was that if Rio Texas had enough scholarship funds, the Conference would give more significantly to everyone. It was an exercise of trust in God, and every local church will help us support more students in the future.

This year's Albert & Nancy Wilson Scholarship recipients are Rylan Wayne Marak, FUMC Hallettsville; Leah Heikes, FUMC McAllen; Juliana L Zamora, El Mesias UMC Floresville; and Zaye Louise Beadle, Westlake UMC.

I wonder if the disciples were without words as I am when God’s blessing starts flowing. I received a thank you card from Rylan.

Then, an email from Zaya’s home church, Westlake UMC, describes the Sunday service the whole church experienced when Zaya received the scholarship,“When one of our youths excels in these areas, everyone is deeply moved. The entire body of Christ was uplifted and joined to recognize and applaud Zaye.”

“I do not doubt that Zaye experienced the warmth and love of her church family when presented with the award, and I believe that the experience of positive regard her church demonstrated will live long in her memory. The experience on Sunday morning likely influenced other children and youth in the assembly who, perhaps, caught a glimpse of a future for themselves. I also believe the church family sensed a communal need to continue promoting children and youth because of the hopeful outcomes it can have on their personal, emotional, and spiritual growth. WUMC is forever grateful for the work of the scholarship team and Rio Texas Conference,” said Rev Margot Ann Perez-Green.

All I can do is praise God, first and foremost. I also praise all of you faithful servants who—trusting God—participate in Student Sunday, contribute directly to the Albert & Nacy Wilson Scholarship, or invest time in the lives of youth with the hope that God will multiply what we do together in His name. Join me in congratulating the students mentioned. If you want to learn more about how you, your family, or your church can amplify the Rio Texas scholarship, contact Mrs. Eve Albert.

Written by Rev. Miguel Padilla