One path to spiritual transformation
How does the work of parenting create space for deep spiritual transformation? Authors Tara Edelschick and Kathy Tuan-MacLean join us on the podcast to discuss their book Moms at the Well: Meeting God through the Mothers of Scripture. Tara and Kathy describe their own journeys of struggle and growth as they each parented young children, developing a friendship along the way that sustained them through their darkest moments. They co-authored Moms at the Well — a robust, 7-week Bible study experience — to encourage other parents through struggle and into an experience of grace. We talk together about their graduate school studies and the ways academic spaces can offer particular challenges to parents. And if you’re interested in checking out their book, click through for discount codes and an opportunity to study a chapter online with us on June 10.
“God loves you and there is a community of women who can love you too.”
Tara and Kathy remind us that parenting — especially in academia — requires grace for one another, strong community, and a generous dash of courage. The conversation brings to mind this piece by Carmen Imes in which she writes about her own experience of navigating a PhD program while raising young children. What’s clear from all three of these women is that each person must find a way forward that suits one’s individual family situation — a message that is true for us all, parents or not. Are there ways that God might be inviting you to think creatively and explore new pathways of grace?
“My story is not a template, it’s just my story. Yours will be different. But if my story lends you courage, then it will have been worth telling.”
You’re Invited!
Join us for Weekly Prayer! Prayer meetings bring joy and connection for all! For more information visit The Well. We hope to see you there! The final prayer meetings of this school year will take place on May 10. Meetings will resume in the fall.
Women, Work & Calling — Summer Book Club. Join us for a special two-session book club this June 6 & 20 as we discuss Women, Work & Calling (IVP 2024). Joanna Meyer provides a theological framework for women's work and influence and offers resources for the challenges of working life. Click through to register!
Moms at the Well — Summer Book Club. Join us for a special single-session book club this June 10 as we discuss Moms at the Well. This seven-week Bible study offers a modern-day "well" for mothers. We invite you to “take a sip with us” by joining us to do the first chapter. If there is enough interest, we will figure out how to do the rest together! Click through to register!
IVP Faculty exam copies. Professors can request a free exam or desk copy for InterVarsity Press titles adopted for classroom use up to three times a year. Your free exam or desk copy will be sent to you within four weeks. Register for a professional account to access this benefit!
Are you an InterVarsity alum? Use promo code IVCFALUMNI to get a 25% discount at ivpress.com.
Are you a Christian woman working in a STEMM field? WISH (Women in Science & Humanities) aims to encourage and support Christian women in STEMM. Check out their new website, support them by filling out their survey, and forward to your networks of women who might also be interested in participating in the WISH project.
Are you an Asian American college student or recent post-graduate dedicated to your Christian faith? Apply to the Asian-American Christian Collaborative Next Gen Leadership Cohort. AACC has established this cohort to mentor our next generation, empowering them to realize the depth of their God-given talents and identity. (Applications due May 5.)
Flourish: How Asian Americans Can Flourish in their Mental Health. In celebration of AAPI Heritage Month and recognition of Mental Health Awareness month in May, AACC invites ministry leaders and individuals alike to join us for two webinars scheduled on May 16 and 23, with more to come in the following months. Click through for details and registration.
Jesus Works Through Nurses. Celebrate National Nurses Month with a new Bible study from Nurses Christian Fellowship "Jesus Works Through Nurses." Share this with nursing students, nursing faculty, and ministry partners as you celebrate all the nurses in your life this month!
More for Nurses. Join Nurses Christian Fellowship on Thursday, May 16 at 7:00 pm (central) for a unique hour of community, Bible exploration, prayer, and a Blessing of the Hands ceremony as we celebrate faith in nursing and encourage one another.
Four More Things We Loved This Week
How a Book Club Can Make You Happier. (Consider joining one of our summer book clubs on work or parenting!)
Beth Felker Jones debunks five myths about seminary and encourages you to consider theological education.
InterVarsity Press Academic has a new podcast! “At IVP Academic we are unabashed book nerds—and if that label suits you, too, we're pretty sure you're going to find Behind the Books fascinating and fun.”
The 34 best gifts for college graduates (according to Wirecutter)