Tami is a mom of two, working her way towards independence. She’s been wanting her driver’s permit, but test and crowd anxiety has prevented her from going to the DMV. We went together and just after three hours; it was her turn. I told her, “It may feel awkward, but I would like to pray over you.” I prayed with her, and others around us joined in. I then told her that I was already proud of her for just being there. Tami passed the driver’s test and now she has her permit! As I brought her home, she said, “Thank you! I got this because you encouraged me, came with me, and prayed for me.”

 

I got to share with her that you are praying for and encouraging her, even if you haven’t met. Thank you for being a part of this celebration. Thank you for being a part of Tami’s life!

 

 

I am blessed to take young moms on shopping trips. It’s a practical way to build connections with them as individuals. I was extra quiet after leaving the store the other day. I wanted to let the mom know it wasn’t her. I briefly shared about an upsetting experience I went through, and how something in the store brought all the feelings of pain flooding back. She looked over at me, with tears in her eyes, and gently said, “I am so sorry— I’ve had the same experience.” The rest of the car ride we discussed the ways we are overcoming our hurt, and what true forgiveness is.

 

Thank you for providing opportunities to share God’s story with young people through trusting relationships in any relevant way.

 

 

 

I recently had a conversation with Anie; a young lady who began attending 71Five Parents Night in her first trimester. Anie expressed herself through her appearance in ways that were not openly accepted by the conservative church she grew up knowing. We were talking one day, and she told me that she had never met someone like me; “You have fun hair, tattoos, and really love Jesus.” Anie wanted to be all in with Jesus, but she also wanted the freedom to express her style. We continued to talk about who Jesus is, what He has done, and who we are in Him. It has been a blessing watching God take her through the journey of seeking Him more.

 

“71Five exists to share God’s story with young people through trusting relationships in any relevant way.” Sometimes its “fun hair, and tattoos” that allow us opportunities to share who Jesus is!

 

 

Kacey shared her confusion with us on her second night attending 71Five Parents. She asked, “Isn’t this a Christian place?” I agreed, “Yes it is.” She continued with, “I am surprised you would have a group for us; don’t you see our babies as sins?” I could see the eyes of everyone else seeking the same answer. That night they left hearing that God loved each of them, loves each of their babies, and created them all for a purpose.

 

Thank you for caring! With your prayers, time, and financial partnership; young parents like Kacey can have a safe place where they can belong, and be affirmed of their identity in Christ.

 

 

Mia is twenty-years-old and a loving mother of two, but she can only have one child at her current residence. She is very shy, living in a new city, and separated from one of her kiddos. Mia was encouraged to be a part of 71Five Parents and doesn’t miss a week. It’s been my privilege to be in Mia’s life as she navigates through this season in becoming the mother she wants to be. I was pleasantly surprised when she accepted my invitation to attend a 71Five College and Career Club Night. She stayed the whole night and engaged with others. Mia also accepted an invitation to check out 71Five VoTech… where she explored pursuing advancement in her welding skills! Mia says that she feels comfortable at 71Five and wants to try new things.

 

Thank you for providing opportunities like the one we have with Mia! These relationships allow us to share the hope we have because of Jesus Christ.