After being a part of the Koinonia community for several years, I admit that being a Layleader had crossed my mind.  Mainly, it was the thought that I can’t imagine ever doing that!  Over the last few years I had a few people that I really didn’t even know that well tell me my time was coming soon.  My thought was “No, I’m sure I will probably be there someday but there are several things I needed to experience and learn first.  There are so many more qualified people out there that should do it!” Well, that wasn’t God’s plan.  I don’t pretend to understand why God put my name on Scott’s heart, or why he chose this last year for me to go through the experience, or why I had the courage to actually say yes to the call.  I have learned so much and have so much yet to learn!  On the retreat, one of the speakers talked about how God does not necessarily always call the equipped; God equips those He calls.  That is how I felt.  Once Scott asked me, I had to be willing but I sure didn’t feel equipped.  I am amazed at what God has shown me and how He brought everything together (oh me of little faith!)  It was a more amazing retreat weekend than I could have ever imagined but I guess I should not have been surprised!  Early on, I knew the only way for me to do this was to let him “steal the show” but I wasn’t sure I would be able to give up that control.  So that was the struggle, and God kept showing me over and over again that it wasn’t about me and to let it go.  My Koinonia family is amazing. I want you to know how amazed and humbled I am by allowing me this experience with you all!  I look forward to see what God has next and pray that I, along with all those that took the “ride” with me, will continue to grow and be “grounded in His love”.

Christina Ward
K-93

God is good! On K-113…

I saw names on a piece of paper turn into groups of friends and spiritual companions.

I saw God work in and heal relationships.

I saw courage in action.

I saw God be glorified in music, words, prayer, and actions.

I saw being grounded in God’s love become more of a reality in people’s lives.

Each weekend takes on a specific personality and K-113 was particularly renewing. There were tears and words of vulnerability and healing. There was fun and laughter. There were challenges to think and self- reflect. And there was lots of food (of course).

Please be in prayer for K-114. I know God has something amazing in mind and it is our job as a Kommunity to follow where He is leading. I can’t wait to see what He has in store for us all!

big hug –
Kristy Holland, K-82
K-113 Assistant Lay Leader