Tough Guys & Drama Queens

SMaRt begins its fall study on Sundays from 6-8 p.m. in Pastor Jon’s office at the East Hills campus this October. Co-led by Becky Cooper and Jennifer Sharer, the ministry began “as a way for moms of teenagers to fellowship and share ideas, celebrations and struggles,” they said. “Last year we covered topics such as social media, dating, disrespectful attitudes, church attendance, brain development, eating disorders, pornography and so much more.”

 Beginning in October, they will start a book study, Tough Guys & Drama Queens, by Mark Gregston. It costs $12.25 on Amazon or $5.99 for the Kindle version.

 SMaRT (Supporting Moms (who) are Raising Teenagers) started in 2015 and welcomes all moms. “We are passionate about this ministry because we are passionate about our kids and about being the best moms we can be to raise these kiddos in a way that is pleasing to God,” the leaders said.

Women's Bible Study - Jean Imholte

The Bible study Chris led "Women of the Bible", was a video series followed by discussion and prayer.  Each week we learned about a different woman from the Bible and we saw what challenged them, how God used them, and how those same types of challenges can be used in our own lives for God's glory. 

There were several different ladies on the video series that spoke so it was different each week.  The study was followed on the video with a woman who gave her personal story, "real lives", and that was always a very meaningful application.  Our table groups were wonderful!  We really got to know each other gradually and began to pray earnestly for each other, seeing some fantastic results from the Lord!  Our table leader kept in touch throughout the week and we knew there was always a network to tap into of caring friends if anything came up.  

The best part might just be that there was no homework!  It was always "come as you are".  The books that went with the study did have good questions to answer if you had time before the meeting, or after upon reflection.  So if you were having a particularly busy week it was fine to just show up and (our motto) "Look up, relax and receive".  Another statement that characterized this group was "this is a safe place". 

Everything said and shared was sacred and we repeated that statement each week.  I think that helped us all relax and know we could share our hearts without worry.  I would really recommend anyone who is looking to recharge their spiritual battery and grow closer to the Lord and Sisters in the faith to join any future Bible studies Chris does.  She was a very special, humble leader.

Women's Bible Study - Monica Wrzesinski

I am so grateful that Chris Jenkins stepped up to teach "12 Women of The Bible."  I had the privilege of being one of the table leaders and really enjoyed getting to know the gals at our table.  This was a stretch for me personally, but I know Chris and I know that she doesn't do anything without spending a lot of time in prayer before stepping out and doing it.  

The first night all of us were informed that whatever was shared at this study would stay there.  I loved how we would start by joining hands and praying ~ women from East Hills, The Grove, women from our community, some who attended other churches, some who didn't attend church.  The presence and love of God filled that room.  

At our table, women were open and honest and real starting the first night.  For many of us, our prayer time was something that we each really looked forward to.  I was excited to see the age range of the women and so grateful that there were not any "clicks".  I learned a lot about God's heart and love concerning women ~ in Bible days and today.  I'm so glad that I attended this study.