“The small group created an environment where I could intentionally deepen my relationship with my friends and God,” Abby shared. “I felt I could talk about anything and know that there would not be judgement but instead many prayers.”
For students in the 4.12 Leadership Training Program, Christian community is one of the most impactful aspects of the program. Many students struggle to find peers to share their faith and values, as well as opportunities for support and accountability. Early on in my role as 4.12 director I had a conversation with a few female students in the 4.12 Program and it was evident that several of them were interested in starting a small group that would provide consistent community and accountability.
After some prayer and discussion, the group soon began to meet weekly and we chose a book to begin studying together. During the first few weeks, the girls quickly opened up. The girls began sharing prayer requests, personal struggles, and discussing topics relevant to the book. It was encouraging to see them connect and grow together.
After several weeks, we eventually came to the end of the book. However, the girls eagerly asked, “What book are we going to do next?” I was so excited to hear that they wanted to continue to meet and be together. Soon a second book was chosen…then a third…then a fourth.
It has now been over three years since that first small group meeting. Over the years, the group has seen a few changes. We have seen some students graduate while also being able to welcome new students to the group. It has also moved across multiple coffee shops and cafes. However, the conversations and community have remained as encouraging as ever. These conversations have surrounded topics such as faith, spiritual disciplines, convictions, and how to live for Christ in today’s world.
It is a blessing to see this young generation of leaders seek the Lord together and desire deeper community. Through my role as director of the 4.12 Leadership Training Program, I am so grateful for the privilege to pour into these young women and see them grow in their faith. Please continue to pray that they would continue to seek Jesus each day and that He would use them to further His kingdom.
“Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: if either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up” Ecclesiastes 4:9-10
