Womens Blog
Letter from Kathy
I want to share with you an exciting new ministry opportunity and introduce myself. During the past year, as Bruce and I have settled back into ministry at 1BL, I have asked the Lord to show me where I might serve Him. I have a particular passion to see women—on all different paths and in all different roles—encouraged and challenged in their faith and in their lives. So, I asked Dave Friese (Pastor of Families) if I might come along side and help in a women’s ministry, and he graciously agreed.
It has been a pleasure to begin working with a women’s ministry team which includes Ellen Benson, Shelly Bird, Debbie Colpean, Debbie Dahl, Becky Friese, Kathy Smalley, and me. In addition to existing women’s ministries, we want to offer additional opportunities for us to grow in our faith and love for Jesus Christ. We are planning some very exciting things (including a Spring event on May 15, save the date!).
As a team, we have sensed that a weekly Bible study would be important. If you are anything like me, you may be wondering if you can commit to one more thing! I understand. But may I challenge you to consider setting time aside to connect with other women on Wednesday nights? We will see that Jesus Christ is profoundly interested in our lives and in our spiritual growth. I’m convinced this time together will refresh us and give us new energy for the busy lives we live.
We are calling this new Bible Study "The Vineyard." Jesus teaches us in John 15 that He is the vine and we are the branches. The vine gives life; the branches become strong as they intertwine with other branches and bear fruit, as together they draw life from the vine. As we are firmly connected to Him, Jesus infuses us with His life-giving energy and sustenance. We then can begin to grow and see our lives connect with other "branches" in profoundly satisfying ways, as we bear fruit and reflect the life of the Vine, Jesus Christ. I believe a women’s Bible study can encourage this growth and connection.
The Vineyard is beginning in conjunction with the new men’s ministry Bible study, "Ground Zero." We will meet on Wednesday nights from 6:30 to 8:00pm in the Hospitality Room and use the current model of Wednesday night programs—6-weeks on, followed by 1 week off, with a break through the summer months. So, there will be periods of pause that will give you built-in rest.
Both studies will begin with a 6-week series on the life of King David, covering topics such as humility, courage, accountability, compassion, integrity, and wisdom. The format will be a short 20-minute teaching time that I’ll lead, followed by 50-55 minutes of discussion at round tables. This is a great opportunity for women of all ages, in any life-stage, to come together for a time of Bible study and connection, as we sit at the feet of Jesus Christ (Mary’s and Martha’s together).
Please consider joining us. I’m excited to see what God will do!
Blessings,
Kathy Eldridge