**Before we share the great responses to an interview with Ashley, Jules and Barb, we want to share with you perhaps the greatest Young Adults Cafe prayer request: LUNGS. Ashley was born with Cystic Fibrosis but has been healthy most of her life. Last winter she contracted an unknown virus that caused her to go into respiratory failure. Amazingly, Ashley bounced back but received the grim news that she would need a double lung transplant. As of today, she has been on the waiting list for 169 days. That about 30 over the average. Would you please add Ashley to your prayer list? We look forward to seeing Ashley restored! We love you Ash! **
You can read more about her journey and keep up with her progress by visiting http://www.shoelessdesign.com/airforashley/
The Young Adults Cafe, informally YAC, continues to draw a crowd of people with one thing in common: a hunger for God. Since inception just a few short months ago, the Thursday evening group has drawn a steady following of from 20-30 people a week. Leader, Larry Strondak brings relevant discussions to the table each week. These conversations are deepening understanding of God's Word and growing bonds between adults who are seemingly more volatile than other age groups. This week, we interviewed Ashley Drew, Jules Fertig and Barbara Fertig, all regular attendees of YAC, about the impact the group has had on their lives.
How long have you been following Jesus?
Jules - I've been a Christian since 1979 shortly after our 2nd son was born. He and I share the same birthday.
Barbara - I started following Jesus in 1978. We totalled our car in an accident and it started me wondering why we escaped injury. Shortly after, a friend invited us to a talk by a Messianic Jew, Sid Roth. I was amazed by his knowledge of the Bible & wondered how I could convince my Jewish friends that Jesus was real. Then I realized I wasn't sure I knew what I believed. When Sid asked if anyone was ready to accept Jesus I knew I wanted to know him. It's been a journey ever since.
Ashley - I grew up with a family that was very active in church. I have been lucky enough to know Jesus as my Lord and Savior my entire life.
Why do you come to YAC? (Young Adults Cafe)
Jules - We started coming to YAC initially because Larry and Kim asked us to participate. They perceived a need for this type of ministry at EastPoint and felt we could contribute even though we were "slightly" beyond the target demographic. Our official title is co-hosts but we're really more participants than hosts and since we've started coming, we don't want to miss a session.
Barbara - Larry met with Jules & me about the possibility of helping with YAC. We agreed and I'm so glad he asked.
Ashley - I have spent a lot of time in the hospital and Pastor Larry came to visit and mentioned that when I am healthy enough I should stop by on a Thursday night. I had spent the last year at home or in the hospital and I really wasn't sure if I was going to have the energy to dedicate myself to a group of new people. Little did I know that no matter how I felt, God was going to supply my energy every Thursday for me!
What has been the most impactful part of YAC? (or what is the best thing you have learned and applied)
Jules - The best part for me, and I think Barbara would agree, has been the genuine fellowship and caring that comes from all the people who come. I certainly don't feel any spiritual communication gap between myself and the other members and if anything, it's the opposite. I'm very impressed with the sincerity of everyone and their genuine desire to follow Jesus the best they possibly can. They challenge me to be more faithful in my walk.
Barbara - Right away I sensed a real spirit of love for each other. Earnest prayer, sharing of deep needs, spending time and having fun together are all things that too often don't happen in our busy lives. YAC provides a place for connecting with each other in a unique way.
Ashley - I have to say there are two parts of YAC that have been very impactful in my life. The first part would have to be the instant friends I have made. I have never had a group in which I can fellowship with and enjoy Matthew parties. I have gone through my fair share of 'floods' and this group has shown me blessings like I never would have expected. The second part would have to be the activities that have come out of YAC, especially spending time with the homeless in the morning. These mornings have completely switched my mindset and prayers from an 'ego' point of view to a view of, "how can I be of help?"
What need does YAC fulfill for you spiritually?
Jules - YAC is a great boost to my spiritual life and every week we come away feeling glad that we made the effort to come. Sometimes the simplest question can produce amazing sharing or insight. There's certainly no problem keeping a discussion going.
Barbara - In studying Scripture together, it becomes obvious that the Word of God is living. Something pops out differently to each person. Everyone hears from the Lord uniquely depending on life circumstances or even on the events of that day. When someone challenges my thinking, it helps me grow because I know the Lord wants a response.
Ashley - Since attending YAC, I feel so hungry for more of God. I get so excited to talk to others about Jesus and the things He has done and continues to do in my life.
What is your favorite YAC moment or what do you just love?
Jules - On the lighter side, I would say the shifting pinata was good for many laughs. The spiritual lesson might be that many times we're swinging in the dark thinking the target is within reach but we don't know that the devil is off to the side raising our goal out of reach.
Barbara - YAC is a great place to laugh and come home feeling renewed.
Ashley - 1) When we hold hands to pray 2) When we re-enacted the Last Supper with the washing of the feet.
What would you tell anyone considering YAC?
Jules - I would encourage any college age/young person who would like to connect with people who are serious about their faith and enjoy a good time to come on Thursday night and check it out. The other thing that's very unique about this group it that there are Christians from other churches who regularly come because we're filling a need for them. This is not an EastPoint group but a Jesus group.
Barbara - Come to YAC to hang out with a new friend, and be challenged by Jesus. What a great way to find out there are other Christians out there who want to meet you!
Ashley - I would say they should definitely come visit, they might get hooked! We tend to be a very energetic bunch and spend a lot of time laughing, sharing stories, and getting closer to God as a group. Also, don't be surprised to find: "gun" throwing (pretty sure there is a name for that sport,) guitars, ice cream, hair cuts, and monkeys.
Visit us at Young Adults Cafe, every Thursday at 7pm,
right here at the EP warehouse.
All are welcome as it's great to have, as Jules said, some folks who might be "slightly beyond the target demographic" to help host.
If you want more information, contact Larry or Alana.
