The Spring Semester at Winthrop

The Spring semester was buzzing with activity this year. From taco Tuesday’s to conferences to classes, students stayed busy as the months rolled by. During this time I continued to meet with them one-on-one and through small groups. This semester I co-led a small group with our other intern looking at the big events of the Old Testament. I also had another opportunity to preach at our Large Group. I taught on the parable of the rich man and Lazarus (Luke 16:19–31) with a focus on the authority of God’s Word. Thank you for helping to make this semester possible, not only for me, but also these students!

Golden Ducks

Every year Winthrop RUF celebrates its graduating seniors with what they call “Golden Ducks.” Each senior got a journal with comments from other students, a devotional, and a spray painted golden ducky. In addition, there is a sweet time of sharing how the seniors impacted the lives of our other students. It is an encouraging moment at the end of a students time at Winthrop to hear how God used them to affect the lives of those around them.

Summer Conference

As finals came to an end, students packed their cars to head to Panama City Beach, Florida for RUF’s annual summer conference! The theme for the week’s large groups was sanctification. Students heard about how God loves them, has adopted them as his own children, and how they are suppose to grow and mature in their faith as his children. Students also got to choose three seminars on other topics that interested them. Several of our students learned about depression and anxiety, work and rest, and evangelism. I am thankful they had this opportunity to not only grow closer to God but also to grow closer together as a group.

Summer RUF

Although school has wrapped up, RUF will still have some activities for students who stay in town. The main thing we do is a small hangout and devotional time on Tuesday nights. We just had our first one this past week and it was great to see everyone and hear what they have been up to since the start of the summer. Please pray that these would be good opportunities for relationships to bud outside of the typical school year.

Jeff and Gabby

Gabby and I have been doing well since our last update. Gabby is continuing to love her job here in Charlotte. She has recently been given the opportunity to work a rotation on the ICU floor which has her very excited! At the same time, her manager that she really enjoyed has departed for another opportunity. This development has Gabby a little worried about her new manager since a good manager makes a huge difference in the work environment. So, please be praying that her new manager transitions well and is a good fit for her team.

As for myself, things have been good. I finished up Church History 2, Greek Exegesis, Covenant Theology, and Pauline Epistles. This summer I am taking Christian Thought and Philosophy along with Pastoral Ministry. Fortunately in between my rounds of classes, we were able to enjoy a nice stay at the beach with some friends!

Next week we will be embarking on a trip to Richmond, VA for our denomination’s annual gathering and to see family. We are very excited about this trip and grateful for the opportunity to travel. Please be praying for safe travel and opportunities for me to learn while there.