It’s been a while since my last post, and that’s because a lot has been happening! My family and I have recently moved to New Jersey to start a new chapter of Chi Alpha Christian Fellowship at Montclair State University. We are incredibly excited to re-pioneer this amazing ministry in such a strategic location. We’re so encouraged by the decades of history Chi Alpha has had at this wonderful school and now we get to be a part of that story.
Transitions are always a mix of excitement and challenges, but they also offer profound opportunities for growth and reliance on God. One of the key insights we’ve embraced during this move is the importance of trusting God’s plan, even when the future seems uncertain. Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”
Starting over in a new place can be daunting, but it’s also a chance to see God’s hand at work in new and unexpected ways. As we embark on this journey, we’re leaning on several leadership principles that have been instrumental in our ministry thus far:
- Servant Leadership: Jesus set the ultimate example of servant leadership. As we re-establish Chi Alpha at Montclair State, our focus is on serving the students and the community, just as Jesus served His disciples. Mark 10:45 says, “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”
- Vision Casting: Effective leadership requires a clear vision that inspires and unites people. Our vision for this new minsitry is to create a welcoming community where students can encounter Christ, grow in their faith, and be equipped to share the Gospel with others. As Proverbs 29:18 states, “Where there is no vision, the people perish.”
- Resilience and Adaptability: Transitioning to a new environment demands resilience and adaptability. We’ve had to navigate new challenges and adapt our strategies to fit the unique needs of our family living in a new state so far from “home.” As cliche as it is, it’s very true: Philippians 4:13 encourages us, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”
In her book, Sustaining Ministry, Sondra Wheeler emphasizes the importance of sustaining personal and spiritual well-being in ministry. She writes, “Ministry that is life-giving and sustainable requires attention to the care of one’s own soul and body, and this care must be woven into the fabric of daily life and work.” This is needed now more than ever as we step out in this new chapter, reminding us to prioritize our spiritual health so that we can effectively serve others.
We are thrilled about the potential for what God will do at Montclair State University through Chi Alpha. It’s a privilege to witness how He transforms lives, one student at a time.
A Girl & Her God 