Carissa
It was a beautiful Sunday morning, and the congregation gathered at the church, their hearts filled with anticipation and reverence. Carissa stood at the front, ready to lead the praise and worship as she often did. The sanctuary was filled with the sound of instruments tuning up, and the congregation quietly took their seats.
Carissa took a deep breath, feeling the presence of the Holy Spirit around her. She started the worship with a powerful and heartfelt rendition of "Holy Forever" by CeCe Winans. Her voice soared through the sanctuary, touching the hearts of everyone present. The congregation joined in, lifting their voices in praise and adoration.
As the song ended, Carissa transitioned into a beautiful dance, expressing her worship through graceful movements. The dance was an embodiment of her faith and dedication, and the congregation watched in awe, feeling the connection to the divine.
After the praise and worship, it was time for the sermon. Theodore, her fiancé, stepped up to the pulpit, ready to deliver his message. Carissa took a moment to prepare for her solo, which she would sing later in the service.
Theodore's sermon was powerful and inspiring, filled with wisdom and guidance. As he spoke, Carissa felt a surge of pride and love for the man she would soon marry. When the time came for her solo, Theodore introduced her with a warm smile.
"Brothers and sisters, it is my honor to invite Carissa to share a special song with us today. Her voice and heart have always been a blessing to us, and I know she will touch our spirits today."
Carissa stepped up to the microphone, her heart beating with both excitement and reverence. She began to sing, her voice carrying the message of the song with clarity and emotion. The congregation listened intently, feeling the power of her words and the presence of God in the room.
As the final notes of her solo echoed through the sanctuary, the congregation erupted in applause, moved by the depth and sincerity of Carissa's performance. She felt a profound sense of fulfillment and gratitude, knowing that she had touched the hearts of her church family.
The service continued with Theodore's sermon, and Carissa returned to her seat, her heart full. It was a morning of worship, love, and connection, and she felt blessed to share it with her fiancé and their church family.
***
Later that evening, the family gathered around the dinner table, enjoying a delicious meal and sharing stories from their day. The atmosphere was warm and filled with laughter as Carissa, Theodore, Mia, and Baby Camryn savored the precious time together.
As the conversation flowed, Mia suddenly looked up at Carissa with a shy yet determined expression. "Mom, could you pass the potatoes, please?"
Carissa's heart skipped a beat, her eyes widening with surprise and joy. It was the first time Mia had ever called her "Mom," and the word carried so much meaning and love. She felt tears welling up in her eyes as she reached for the dish.
"Of course, sweetheart," Carissa said, her voice filled with emotion. She handed the potatoes to Mia, and in that moment, she couldn't hold back any longer. She stood up and walked over to Mia, wrapping her arms around her in a heartfelt embrace.
Mia hugged her back tightly, her own eyes glistening with tears. "I love you, Mom," she whispered, her voice full of sincerity and warmth.
Carissa's heart overflowed with happiness. "I love you too, Mia. So much."
Theodore watched the tender moment with a loving smile, his heart swelling with pride and joy for their growing family. He reached out to hold Baby Camryn, who giggled in his arms, adding to the joy of the moment.
