Ingomar Spirit Newsletter June-July 2014 | Page 3

My Story Testimonials Small groups have impact On March 9, 2014, a series of personal faith story videos began as part of Sunday worship at Ingomar Church. Each week, members of this congregation have told how their lives have been positively impacted, and how their faith relationships have grown. The stories have been emotional ... honest ... inspiring. While each has been unique, the stories have often highlighted the significance of being in a small group. Here are a few examples. “The most important part of my healing came when I entered a Bible study called ‘Mercy Triumphs.’” Jodi Ardito, describing a defining moment in her faith journey at Ingomar Church FFFFFFF “When I started coming to Ingomar Church, it was just to attend worship on Sunday morning. After only a few months, I realized that my life was changing and I wanted to get more involved. I joined a small group and immediately after that I joined Disciple One (Bible Study). From there, everything started steamrolling for me.” Dan Woods, explaining the importance of his small group experiences FFFFFFF “In the midst of personal struggles we came to Ingomar Church and almost immediately became involved with a small group. It truly became a defining moment for us. We met an awesome group of friends that really took us in and embraced us, listened to all the challenges we were going through, and helped us strengthen our faith,” said Ryan. “They embraced us and lifted us up on our hardest days, and laughed with us on our good days,” said Jessica. Ryan and Jessica George, reflecting on the significance of their small group experience FFFFFFF “I knew we would come to preschool here, but I didn’t know that it would change my life ... These are relationships that have been forged here at Ingomar Church, and they will be my friends for the rest of my life. I joined a new member’s class and was introduced to the Bethany House mission. I sat down with the preschool moms [and enlisted their support]. It’s been over two years now, and we go every Monday, and this never would have happened if it weren’t for Ingomar Church.” Catherine Baker, describing the importance of relationships formed at Ingomar Church FFFFFFF “The messages [in Sunday worship] were exactly what we needed to hear. Every Sunday we would go home and I would say, ‘That was for me!’ We actually brought it up a few weeks ago in our small group, and somebody said ‘That was God talking to you.’ And I said I didn’t think I was that important.” As she reflected on that statement, she said, “It’s important for us to be here.” Theresa Bernardi, reflecting on the Bernardi family’s faith journey FFFFFFF We extend sincere thanks to all who have courageously offered their faith stories, witnessing to all of us how God is at work in their lives, and at work at Ingomar Church. If you have a story to tell, or if you know someone who is willing to share his or her story, please talk with one of the pastors, or Erica and Zack Oshlick. 3