November Update: Embracing Development

Fan into flame the gifts of God.

Dearest Family and Friends,
 
What a whirlwind the first quarter of the residency has been! I can’t believe we’re almost in November and the holiday season! I can't thank you enough for partnering with me. Please know that God is moving mightily in and through ASW’s ministry. I am so honored to work and learn from this team.

We’ve covered a lot of ground in the past month. This first quarter of my residency has been heavily focused on my personal growth and development.

There are 3 primary areas we've focused on during the first quarter of my residency:

1. Theological Development
Every Wednesday from 6-9pm, I attend a theology course offered by Austin Stone called the Men & Women’s Development Program. Since classes began in September, we have covered doctrines ranging from the inerrancy of Scripture to the theology of the Trinity. We have homework every week, including Scripture memory, and we have a quarterly oral assessment to test our ability to articulate the content we’ve learned.

I’ve loved diving deep into these topics. I’m finding that the more I learn about God, the more I love Him. I want to encourage you that it is worth investing time in knowing the Lord! Scripture promises that when we draw near to God, He will draw near to us (c.f. James 4:8).
 
2. Worship Leadership and Musical Development
Every Tuesday, ASW residents have dedicated time to develop our skills as musicians and worship leaders. This comes in two forms: Worship Leader Classes or Resident Assessment. Worship Leader Classes are taught by ASW staff and cover topics such as choosing songs for your congregation, crafting a set list, and forming a call to worship. During the Resident Assessments the staff provides feedback on our musicianship, our ability to articulate truth from Scripture in an understandable way, and our countenance/posture as we lead. I'm very thankful for the feedback I’ve received.
 
Currently, I’m focused on developing my own voice. This includes both discovering my personal vocal sound (as opposed to trying to sound like someone else) and being able to confidently speak God's truth out loud, in front of people. I'm reminded that God has not given me a spirit of fear, but a spirit of power, love and self-control. (c.f. Timothy 1:7)

3. Administrative Work & Event Planning
From calls to emails to catering orders to event rentals, I'm in the office during the week to help make ASW's ministry run smoothly! Once week I meet with Jaleesa to talk about how I'm doing personally and review the things that need to be accomplished. ASW put on 2 major events in the past 6 weeks: a church-wide Night of Worship and a large Worship Collective (see photos below).

I've thoroughly enjoyed applying all the skills I acquired while working at a law office to a creative ministry context! It's amazing to see how He is faithful to work all things together for my good. (c.f. Romans 8:28)

I believe there are more incredible things to come in the next few months! Thank you all for your prayers and generosity. 

In Christ y'all,
Kellie