Re:generating Hope

We’re moving forward.

I keep hearing that we are headed towards a “new normal”! I would have to ask: What’s the old normal? Dan Jorndt, who was the president and CEO of Walgreens years ago, said, “The only constant is change!” So with that in mind, we are moving forward with wisdom while maintaining focus on our mission of “Helping broken and vulnerable people find life in Christ.

Re:generation returned to its new location, the Student Center Auditorium, on June 15 and things looked a little different than our first meeting there on March 9. There were about 60 people in the room, sitting apart from each other and wearing masks, but very glad to be together once again. We worshiped together and heard a testimony just like before, but it definitely felt a little different. There weren’t the hugs and handshakes that typically take place in this group of men and women who come together weekly and authentically share with one another the struggles we may be facing. But the love and acceptance was certainly still strong!

Large group is very important because it is here that we hear of others journey and see that healing is possible, it gives hope to hear of someone struggling well and overcoming the difficulties that life presents. As we move forward, we currently plan to continue meeting onsite at GFC, but will also be live streaming so that those who are in the vulnerable categories can still participate.

The small group experience is where we apply the things we are learning to our individual circumstances and share life with others. We encourage one another through sharing, being in the Word, and praying… together. We plan to create some online Zoom groups so those who aren’t comfortable attending small groups in-person will be able to meet with one another as well.

Even though we weren’t meeting onsite for those three months, our group leaders did an incredible job of reaching out to those in their groups and staying on course with the steps found in the Re:generation curriculum. Two weeks after returning to in-person meetings, we had 7 ladies complete the Re:generation steps and commence. Through the wonders of technology and the tremendous giftedness of our GFC tech team and Re:generation leaders, we were able to connect via Zoom two of the ladies who were going through some health challenges that kept them from being there in-person. Commencement is a time of celebration, so I am so thankful they were able to celebrate with their group and with all of us.

We still don’t know the effect that this season has had, or is having, on people who are feeling isolated, anxious, or scared. But Re:generation is one place that provides authenticity, acceptance, and HOPE. We would love for you to join us… whether online or 6 feet apart!

Rich Riesz

Rich is the Care and Recovery Pastor, overseeing GFC’s care ministries, including Re:generation, benevolence, prayer team, and action team. If you would like to learn more about the care ministries or joining re:generation, click here.