The catalysts, the risk- takers

When you move to a new place, you're never sure who will believe you, frankly. And believe IN you. And in the fresh concept that you're hoping students will be a part of: Connexxion. So here they are: 4 of the very instrumental, life-shaper students (there WERE more of you-- i haven't forgotten)... who dedicated LOTS of time, brainstorming, leadership, & sweat (YES, sweat--riding their bikes in the cold rain to meet up), to create a new Connexxion group in Braunschweig, beginning in the spring of 2007. I was brand new in town, and they made me feel at home, even on my first Sunday at church.

(from right to left) My heroines: Miri, Birthe, Janine, & Lydia. Lydia moved the fall of 2007 from Jena. This was the city where Connexxion began & where she had lived closer to her family (& twin sister Maria), but she took a step of faith to start a "new life" in Braunschweig. She worked on her Master's thesis in Braunschweig (now doing her doctorate! smart girl!) in nutritional sciences, living on the grounds of a government forestry/ animal husbandry research center with plenty of cow barns. She became one of the creative minds behind our Bible discussion group meeting in a cafe on Mondays (where the group still meets). And is now Anja G.'s roomie, meaning she helps with hosting a ton of parties (among other things).

Miriam and Janine were good friends whom I met my first Sunday at my new church; both studying to become elementary school teachers. They included me in their "circle" of friends & saw the need for a new kind of group where they could invite their university friends. We had movie nights together, cooked together, & drank lots of tea & coffee. And they formed part of our discipleship group. Miri especially helped with Bible discussion group & such activities as handing out candy canes at Christmas in the student "Mensa", etc. The last year, since graduation, they've spent overseas (in England and Asia), exploring their giftings & making a difference for Jesus.

Birthe had emailed me already in January of '07, wondering when I was coming to their city. What vision she has! She was finishing up her social work degree, & we enjoyed being outdoors, taking walks in the huge park near my apartment. She ended up living with me for 2 months, after her ankle was injured in a soccer game. Birthe is now serving on Connexxion staff half-time, while also doing her seminary studies on line with IGW. It was great being re-united last month at the Connexxion retreat, after a long absence from one another.