This year began a new era for the Cornerstone large group, because we have completely changed the model. After a summer (and part of spring) spent reevaluating our large group, and we felt that God was calling us to change our current structure. After many prayerful meetings, the staff came up with a new model that incorporates different methods of learning. We have given a “subject” to each of our months, and then each week of that month will feature something different. On the first week, we break into groups to eat food, a small explanative talk on our subject is given, and then we have a few questions which prompt each person in the group to share a story based on the monthly subject. On the second week, we have our traditional Cornerstone that features the staff (or a guest speaker) giving a biblical talk based on the monthly subject. The third week features a more experiential, tactile style of learning based on the subject. The fourth, and last, week is designated for a worship/prayer/testimony night followed by fellowship (and food) at the Original Hot Dog Shop in Oakland.
Change is scary. I get that. But sometimes it is worth the risk. We have had a few Cornerstones so far, and (I believe) this new format has strengthened the community. People are engaged, meeting new people, and deepening their relationship and love of Jesus Christ. Please continue to pray for this new format. Pray for continued buy in from the leadership and that God works through these new experiences.
Meet the Students
I came into my freshman year knowing that I wanted to follow the Lord in college and committed to searching for the right Christian community for me; somewhere I could get plugged in and have a support system in this new season of my life. I thought I was going to need to church/fellowship hop, and try out a bunch of groups to see what fit me. But instead, the Lord immediately showed me how well He provides for me by giving me Cornerstone. Cornerstone felt right from the second I walked through the door. I felt welcomed, cared about, and pursued by the Cornerstone students and staff from the very first second they met me.
Because of this, I wanted to dive deeper into the community and to get as involved as I possibly could. As I spent more and more time in the Cornerstone community and began to find a home within, I noticed a few key things that our community does especially well. The first is the willingness of the students and staff to follow the Spirit wherever it may lead. This boldness has fostered a closeness to Christ that simply cannot come out of fear and limitations. Cornerstone’s willingness to step into uncomfortability for the glory of the Lord has inspired me. Another aspect I love about Cornerstone is the support that I’ve found in the people. Even when I mess up, which is both often and apparent, I am so loved and pointed back to Christ by the people around me. Getting this support and guidance from people who share my faith has been essential to my wellbeing at Pitt, and I can safely say that without it I may not have chosen to come back for my sophomore year. Although I often felt lost last year, I was always able to be rooted and be firm in my identity because of the community that the Lord has given me in Cornerstone.
And while Cornerstone is a place of safety, it also challenges me. As I became involved in leadership with Cornerstone, I quickly learned that I would not be stagnant in faith, but instead pushed to grow and draw closer to Christ through my team members. Leadership asks me to be better, to follow the Lord more closely, and to be a vessel and a witness in ways that I never expected. The Lord has both given me Cornerstone as the platform to do this but also has worked through Cornerstone to grow me and equip me to do so. I am certain that I would be a completely different person if it were not for Cornerstone and what the Lord has done through this group of people.
Financial Update
All of your generous donations are what helps makes ministry to students like Savanna possible, and helps me get out on campus. Now that I have gotten a raise, this is more important than ever! Remember that any gift is a good gift. We could always use financial help, and if you are interested in supporting this ministry (or giving extra), I would love to meet with you. Please email me at amoore@ccojubilee.org. Please be in prayer that God will continue to build our support team and that we would be faithful in doing our part.
Moore News
Joshua is in his last year at Fulton, and has begun to look at middle schools for next year. After Ben raving about Sci-Tech, it has made it pretty high on his list. We just took him to the middle school fair to “window shop” for a new middle school. I think it overwhelmed him a bit, and he isn’t always the most talkative in large group situations. Regardless, it seems he is excited about the future.
Asher has begun third grade, and continues to be his sweet self. Teachers absolutely love him and his personality; he is always willing to help, and he is always willing to talk (sometimes a little too much). He turns nine next month, and is stoked for his birthday. He is asking (of course) mainly for video games.
Emily has recently quit her job at Chick-Fil-A to focus mainly on nannying. Emily is an extreme introvert, and waiting on customers for a good part of the day really takes a toll on her energy levels. Though she was good at what she did, I don’t think Chick-Fil-A wasn’t as good of a fit as nannying. Working with kids is not only something she is good at, but something she is passionate about as well.
I pray that you are well! God Bless!
In Christ,
Andy Moore
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