Before the Sun Rose
Before the Sun Rose
Learning to Serve with a Servant’s Heart
Written by Kerri Irwin, Director of Middle School Ministry
At 5:45 a.m. on January 4, 2026, while most of Atlanta was still asleep, 15 eighth-grade Confirmands from the Class of 2026, along with their teachers and a few mentors, gathered at First Presbyterian Church of Atlanta. There was a little nervous energy in the air. Some felt unsure of what the morning would hold, others were simply curious, but everyone showed up. Together, they drove into the city to serve breakfast and kindness to unhoused neighbors as part of their Confirmation journey.
What unfolded over the next few hours was far more than a service project.
As breakfast was prepared and served, conversations began to form naturally. Smiles were exchanged. “Good mornings” were offered. One Confirmand shared that they didn’t feel uncomfortable at all, only thankful for the chance to offer a smile and a greeting to someone who might not have much to look forward to that day. Another said they felt deeply moved when guests not only accepted the food, but also genuinely wanted to talk.
One moment between a teacher and a guest stood out in particular. The teacher handed a gentleman a cup of coffee and said, “Here you go, sir.” He paused and replied, “Thank you for calling me ‘sir.’ It shows that you’ve been raised right.” He then turned to the others at his table and reminded them that when you treat people with respect, you are treated with respect. In that simple exchange, a powerful lesson in dignity was shared.
Throughout the morning, Confirmands began to see beyond circumstances and into humanity. One youth spoke with a woman who shared her love of running and proudly showed photos of her race medals and bibs. She also spoke honestly about her struggle with addiction and her desire to seek help. The courage it took to speak so openly left a lasting impression. It was a reminder that people are never defined by one chapter of their story.
There was laughter around the tables. Many of the guests knew one another and carried on conversations as if they were old friends. Despite difficult living conditions, joy and community were present. Adult volunteers observed how engaged the youth were, serving with kindness, respect, and genuine care. One teacher reflected on feeling like Martha in Scripture, joyfully serving those gathered, while another noticed how even small acts helped guests feel seen and welcomed.
Again and again, the same truth surfaced: unhoused persons are not strangers; they are neighbors in a tough season.
The experience sparked gratitude and reflection. Confirmands spoke about realizing how blessed they are, and how fortunate they feel to be in a position to serve. They named how even a simple meal, a kind word, or a bit of small talk could change someone’s day. One Confirmand reflected on Jesus washing the disciples’ feet, offering love and service even when others felt unworthy, and saw that same calling lived out that morning.
They learned that love takes many forms. That kindness matters. That looks can be deceiving. That showing compassion is not optional for followers of Christ, it is essential. They were reminded that God loved first, and because of that love, we can serve and share love with others.
That January morning also planted seeds for the future. Some felt a continued pull toward mission. Others spoke of wanting to remember the smiles, laughter, and joy that came from serving together across generations. Many shared prayers of gratitude, thanking God for the opportunity to serve as God’s hands and heart and to witness how God’s love can brighten a day.
This is what it means to be led with a servant’s heart.
As these Confirmands from the Class of 2026 continue their journey of faith, may they carry this experience with them: the knowledge that everyone belongs, that dignity matters, and that even the smallest acts of love can have a lasting impact. And may we all be reminded that before the sun rises, or long after, it is always the right time to love our neighbors.
Learn more about ryeX Confirmation, here.
Learn more about serving breakfast the first Sunday of the month, here.
At Roswell Presbyterian Church, we believe that living out our faith means serving others with compassion, generosity, and commitment. Through "Mission In Action," we share stories of how God's love is made visible in the world—across the street and around the globe. Whether feeding the hungry, sheltering the unhoused, educating the next generation, or responding to crisis, we partner with local and international ministries to bring hope and healing. This blog celebrates the hands and hearts of RPC members and friends who put their faith into action, bearing witness to the transformative power of service in Christ's name.