mentoring

I came to know the Lord when I was 18 years old, just before I left home for a small secular college in Maine. I entered college with a fire in my heart to know Jesus more, but with a faith that was fledgling and tender. I joined the Christian fellowship group on campus right away and sought to start walking in the grace of God. I joined a peer-led Bible study and spent time with other believers my age.

Dear Younger Women of our Church,

This world is not kind to you. It calls your Christianity narrow-minded, your biblical obedience brain-washed, and your church commitment old-fashioned. You are supposed to be gorgeous, accomplished, and successful all the time–not to mention present and mindful. By following Jesus, you swim against a swift and strong current, and we applaud you. You are doing a great job!

Dear Older Women of our Church, 

Studies show that older women feel invisible. They no longer display the celebrated beauty of youth, the magical gift of fertility, or the fresh face of potential. Though they fight to believe God’s truth about aging, the culture sure doesn’t make it easy. 

But older ladies, you are not invisible to us. You are not irrelevant.  Don’t think for a minute that your work is done around here. We honor you and we need you.

I’ve been meeting with some younger women recently. Across from each other at Starbucks, lattes in hand, we chat about life, and I find myself sitting up a little straighter and wondering if my gray roots are showing. I’ve been wanting a younger perspective on women’s ministry and a chance to get to know these women better, and you know what? They’re all really great: insightful, thoughtful, and God-glorifying. They want to build the kingdom…

Have you ever wanted to mentor or be mentored by someone at church, but had no idea how to initiate it? You’re not alone! Jannie Bard has been mentoring Kiersa Sauder since they met at Study Together about two years ago, and recently they sat down with us to talk about the experience—the awkwardness, the blessings, and what they’ve learned from each other over this time. Study Together is a great place to grow in…