I started attending Saint Andrews when I was seven years old. My family had just moved to Maine without knowing anyone in the state. The first time I walked through those doors, I was nervous and shy but was quickly welcomed with open arms. And that's the beautiful thing about this church. Saint Andrews is very unique in the sense that we truly are a family. I go to church on Sundays not only to hear the sermon and sing songs, but to see my adopted aunts, uncles, grandparents, and siblings. Over the past eleven years, I have seen the church in many different stages, from full pews to five people being a good week, but since I have joined session I have seen the church in a whole new light. Specifically, I never realized how expensive it is to run a church. However, if you're like me, times are tough and as much as I'd love to help the church financially, it just isn't manageable in my budget. That's why I give my time instead of money. Helping with yard sales, cleaning up the church, being liturgist, and telling others about our family can be just as beneficial as a financial gift. I have never been able to afford giving much money, but after having been a choir member, Sunday school teacher, and finally a session member, I feel like I've helped in my own way. I give to the church because I want to help it stay alive and inspire people, just like it has done for me. This church has helped shape me into the woman I am today, and I am very grateful.