Written by Scott Cahan on November 5, 2021.
The 2021/2022 season of the BluePrint ministry for mothers is now in full swing and is already having a positive impact on the moms in our community. I was privileged to sit in a meeting for the purpose of this article. My heart was warmed by the atmosphere of love and camaraderie that surrounded the 40+ women who attended.
The first thing most of the moms did when they arrived at Alliance Bible Fellowship was head over to Little Alliance where nursery workers were eager to take care of their children during the event. Once the mothers were satisfied that their children were in good hands, they went to the gym where the moms were gathering.
A generous brunch greeted them as they arrived at the meeting, offering treats to fit everyone’s tastes. The eclectic menu included everything from cookies and muffins to mini quiches and a sampling of fruit. With the food available to help break the ice, the ladies, many of whom were first-timers or still relatively new, had no problem starting up conversations and getting to know others at their table.
After 30 minutes of food and social time between the moms, all eyes turned to the podium to see who would win the door prizes that are given away at every large meeting. Five lucky moms were beaming with joy as they walked to the front to pick up their gift bags full of special treats for the mom and a helpful book about Christian parenting.
Next, the guest speaker took the stage to give words of encouragement to the moms in the audience. The speakers at Blueprint events range from experts in parenting to moms who have an incredible story to tell. This particular week, the leader of the Blueprint ministry spoke, Christi Galy. She spoke about the hope we all have in Jesus and how it will carry us through the trials of life. In her talk, she gave a very personal testimony that illustrated how she had learned to depend on Jesus during even the most difficult times in her life.
A discussion time followed the speaker, allowing the moms at each table to share and pray for each other. This time of intimacy among the mothers is the heart of the Blueprint ministry. It’s when moms are able to open up about their personal struggles and hear that other mothers are going through the same thing. Many times there will be a more experienced mom at the table that can suggest some wisdom or a solution for the younger mother’s situation. Prayer ends every discussion among the new friends as they bring all of their concerns to the Lord, praying for themselves and the other moms at their table.
After the meeting, I asked Christi Galy how she thought the meeting went and she said, “We were able to see moms opening up and share how God has used their trials to grow them and to see how they could glorify God through it. This level of deep conversation is truly remarkable due to the fact that we have only just met several weeks ago, and already there is a trust and bond built in the vulnerability we all share.”
BluePrint meets every Tuesday during the 2021/2022 school year. Their last meeting in 2022 will be May 17. All mothers are welcome to attend, no matter the age of their children. Keep an eye on @abfboone_blueprint on Instagram for the latest updates!