When Tim Kendrick stood up to address college graduates at last Sunday's celebration brunch, he looked out over a room full of familiar faces. He felt a sense of pride, and a little sadness, too.

For as long as these young people have known Covenant, Tim has been a presence in their lives.

As a volunteer in the crib room when they were babies. As a chaperone on mission trips to Arkansas, Philadelphia and the Yucatan. As a member of the College Council that makes road trips to campuses to check in on students. And as a Secret Saint who sends care packages throughout the year.

In the room Sunday was Tim's youngest son, Andy, who just earned a degree from the University of South Carolina. In many ways, Tim and leaders of Covenant's youth ministry helped raise all of the graduates who gathered one last time before heading off to their next chapters.

"I've known some of these kids 22 years," Tim said. "I'm happy they've made it this far. Maybe the church and this group has had a little bit to do with it."