"My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has looked on the humble estate of his servant. For behold, from now on all generations will call me blessed; for he who is mighty has done great things for me, and holy is his name. And his mercy is for those who fear him from generation to generation."
Luke 1:46-50
In studying the Christmas story this season, my attention was drawn to Mary's song of praise after she found out she was to be the mother of the promised Messiah. Her immediate response, while a bit fearful and in disbelief, was that of praise and thanksgiving for all God has done for her despite her "humble estate". It was a great reminder to do the same, especially as I reflect back on this year.
Many times I have felt quite unworthy or God has put me in humbling situations, yet he continues to bless me and do great works. Here are some highlights of His faithfulness, goodness, and grace in 2018.
At the beginning of this year, I finished the season of full time support raising and was commissioned by my home church , New Life Bible Fellowship, before heading out to State College where God had called me. Praise God for his faithfulness to provide the needed support!
I got started right away in the Headquarters! I love serving behind the scenes wherever I'm needed - whether in the Finance department, administrative support to the President, event planning, or anything else.
Over the summer, we had 12 student interns at DiscipleMakers (like Pauline and Emily) - 6 of those were in the Headquarters! It was great to share the vision of college ministry with them, and what it's like to support the ministry behind the scenes. Two of the interns caught that vision and will now be joining DiscipleMakers after they graduate!
In August, I moved into an apartment with 2 friends who also work with DiscipleMakers! We enjoy ministering together, and doing fun things like pumpkin picking! (Pictured: Me, Kaitlyn, Taylor)
When the students returned in the fall, I was able to get connected with a bible study of freshmen ladies (top left, bottom right). The fellowship also helped to run a concession stand at a Penn State Football game (top right). My roommates and I were also able to host many students one evening for ice cream and movies - we didn't know 40 students and staff could fit into our tiny apartment, shoes and all! (bottom left)
As you read in a previous newsletter, Fall Conference was definitely a highlight of this year in seeing God's goodness at work! Much planning went into it - including organizing almost 500 packets for the attendees (left). Praise God for the students who came to know Christ and deepened their faith this weekend!
To end a year of God's goodness, we hosted a some of the ladies at Penn State for a Christmas Tea. It was a wonderful time to fellowship together and reflect on the grace of God and how he has worked in our lives throughout the year.
Thank you, dear friends for all your support this past year!
I am amazed to see the work that God has done here in State College which has only been possible by your prayers and financial giving.
This is only the beginning, and I am excited to be a part of the Lord's work in 2019 and that I get to bring you with me!
Prayers & Praises
Praise God for his goodness, grace, and faithfulness this past year! Both here in State College, and in your own life!
Pray for the students at Penn State who know Christ, that they may grow in their faith this next year. Pray for the students we have yet to meet, that God would start to soften their hearts to Him now and lead us to them.
Pray for DiscipleMakers as a whole as we continue to pioneer new campuses, that God would provide opportunities for us there and that He would equip us here in the Headquarters to support these efforts.
