Merry Christmas!

Jeffrey Neikirk
December 23, 2024

The Fall Semester

Our Fall semester started out strong. We had many students interested in us, even guys! Unfortunately, we lost momentum with hurricane Helene. Our Fall Conference was canceled, and several weeks of class were canceled as well. Fall Conference is typically a time when students get cemented into the group and build deeper friendships, so the loss of this opportunity affected the rest of the semester. Nonetheless, God was good, and students stuck around. Large Group and small groups continued. Students continued to come and get plugged in to our group. At the end of the semester, we had our Halloween party and Barn dance which is always a lot of fun. We are now looking forward to the Spring term and all that God has planned for Winthrop!

This semester I had another opportunity to preach at RUF, and I preached on Matthew 11:25–30. In addition to this, I also met weekly with a student. Together we would read and discuss a chapter of Gentle and Lowly by Dane Ortland (A book about Christ’s tender heart towards his people). It was a fruitful experience for the both of us as we read and learned more about God’s love for us in Christ together.

Me and the Student I met with this semester

School and Life

Hiking with Gabby’s Parents

Gabby is continuing to enjoy and excel at her job. Recently, she was offered the position of lead preceptor, which means she will make sure new hires are being oriented to the floor correctly and have everything they need. This current job has really been a blessing for her, and we are so thankful for it.

For myself, things have only ramped up. This semester I took on a research assistant job under a professor and increased my course load. I am now attempting to try and finish seminary in three years rather than four, which is what I originally planned on doing. So, between school and RUF life has been busy! But it has been good.

I am continuing to enjoy and excel in my classes. We are also thankful for all the friendships we have found here and our church community. Even though life has become more hectic lately, we are so grateful for all the opportunities we have been given here. We hope that all of you have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Prayer Requests

That students would return from break excited about another year with RUF.
That RUF would continue to grow and that new students would come to know Jesus.
That I would continue to do well in my courses and enjoy the rest of seminary.
That I would manage my time well and not become burned out.