Bridges, a women’s fellowship and discipleship group, held its last meeting for the spring semester on Feb. 24 at 7 a.m. in Bowld 221.
Fran Thomas, the assistant director for campus ministry, women’s discipleship and student discipleship and engagement, is the current leader of Bridges. Her responsibility is to discuss topics of interest and share the gospel with students.
“The purpose of Bridges and the hope we have for the future is to bridge gaps between students who would not normally engage with one another,” Thomas said.
Bridges has been a women’s group for three semesters and is continually being improved and worked upon. Meetings used to be held in Luther Hall but were moved to the Bowld Student Commons in hopes of drawing a bigger audience.
“We moved to try to be more accommodating to students and be closer to them,” Thomas said. “I know that students live busy lives and that their time is precious and demanding, so we are working to make Bridges more available to current students.”
Though the meetings are a wonderful opportunity for young women, the early morning settings can pose a challenge.
“Timing has been our biggest hindrance this semester,” Thomas said.
Engaging in conversation and reading the Bible together requires attention and awakeness, and meeting on a Monday morning can make it difficult for students to do so.
Emily Baker, a sophomore digital media communications major, makes Bridges a priority despite the early wake-up call.
“I truly love bridges because I get to meet so many different people, and I get to serve with my friends, and it’s so much fun,” Baker said. “I love starting the week off by getting into the word and hearing good words for people.”
Jennie Shaddox, a sophomore exercise science major, agrees with Baker and enjoys the early mornings.
“I love Bridges because it connects all the parts of campus and all the different groups of women,” Shaddox said. “I love sharing the word with people who are very intentional in their relationship with Christ.”
Though this was the last session for Bridges this semester, Thomas has goals for the students moving forward. She hopes that each student will continue reading the Bible and engaging in meaningful friendships.
“Deeper relationships will cause more trust, likability and respect for everyone on campus,” Thomas said.
Thomas left the young women with a Bible verse, Romans 12:10, to memorize and hold onto until they meet again in the fall semester: “Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor.” (English Standard Version)