Covid was the worst thing and the best thing to happen to our faculty group. It nearly killed our in-person groups, but gave rise to life-changing virtual groups.
Over the past four years since Covid, being part of a virtual group with other Christian faculty has profoundly impacted my work life, prayer life, and my sense of calling to be salt and light on a secular campus. At first, I was simply encouraged by hearing the stories and struggles of other faculty members who were also called to serve in challenging environments.
Only God Could Do This
Each time we met, we grew to trust and care for one another, and shared personal stories related to the excellent books we read together. I never imagined that an online group could be such a rich and connecting experience. However, in retrospect, only God could use the difficult disruption of Covid to help us prepare for new means of building relationships and sharing life.
Even though the group membership shifted somewhat each semester because of scheduling, we bonded quickly, being led into meaningful discussions as we were challenged to “up our game” of being lights for Christ in academia.
No Advance Preparation Needed
Last year we delved into “G-3” lessons offered through Faculty Commons. I was personally busier and more stressed than usual, so when I heard there was no advanced preparation needed, I was grateful for God’s perfect timing!
[Editor’s tip: To find the link to the “G-3” lessons on the Faculty Commons website, scroll down to the bottom of the page of resources.]
Each G-3 lesson provided a brief narrative, related Scripture passages, and excellent discussion questions for our group. I looked forward to each new topic for reflection and sharing. The lessons caused me to assess my Christian witness in a supportive group with many role models to learn from.
Intentional Communication About My Faith
This past spring, we used the lesson, “They Still Remember”, which included quotes from John Walkup, Heather Holleman, and others about sharing their faith with their students. Our group shared examples of how they made it known to their students that they were followers of Jesus and how it impacted their classroom and students.
Not only did I glean new ideas for sharing my faith, but I was also greatly encouraged to develop intentional communication about my faith in my classes.
The conclusion of that lesson has an excerpt from Dr. Samuel Matteson’s introduction to his students. On the first day of his classes, he shares an overview of his ‘philosophy of life and education,’ and how those inner attitudes shape his approach to teaching and ground his life. Standing out among these is an explanation of his faith in Jesus Christ.
Dr. Matteson’s “First Day Introduction” helped me structure a similar message to use in my classes. Moreover, this lesson yielded inspirational ideas from the text and helpful thoughts and encouragement from our small group members.
Rich and Valuable
My experience in our Midwest Faculty Women’s Growth Group has been rich and valuable as we share Biblical lessons alongside our successes and struggles. Each time we gather, I am reminded of the value and importance of connecting, be it in person or online.
As Hebrews 10:24-25 says: “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the day approaching.”
