Every day, I read a message from someone who has reached out on IG and think, “What I’d really love is to sit down with her over a cup of tea and talk.” And while I’ve been blessed to have that opportunity via last year’s Quilting Circle Gathering, it’s just not feasible for many to make their way to East Tennessee for a weekend. (But yes, another gathering is in the works!) Knowing this, I’ve been mulling over other ways to make deeper connections— and ways to allow those with similar interests, situations, and concerns to connect, as well.
The answer was actually right in front of me: Zoom chats.
See, since 2020, online meetings, mentorships, and trainings have become a huge tool in our mission work. We can literally skip continents in a matter of hours, checking in with pastors in Nepal, making arrangements in Mongolia, and then getting updates from other Gospel workers stationed around the globe…. all while parked at a desk in our bedroom!
Why not use this same format to create a face-to-face Quilting Circle each month?
Over the past three and a half years (can you believe it’s been that long?) we’ve learned a few tricks to keep online meetings from becoming boring sessions where one person blathers on and everyone else tunes out. So the format for the Quilting Circle Chats looks like:
A small group of 12, plus me.
The opportunity to share emails/IG handles and connect outside of the chat.
Short introductory lead-in, followed by lots of time to talk application.
Printables provided in advance for those who like to have something concrete to help them focus.
Printable scripture memory cards to aid in focusing on what really matters.
A follow-up email with any prayer requests and ways to keep the conversation going.
To begin, I’m offering these sessions on the last Saturday of each month. I’d love to make them bi-weekly, but my husband wisely reminded me that it’s always better to start slow and build rather than go big and burn out. (Oh, how well he knows me!) The first Quilting Circle Chat will be January 27, from 10:30 a.m. to noon. The topic is “Getting Back Into a Rhythm,” because y’all, resuming life after the holidays is hard! Registration is $15, and as of this writing, there are five spots left.
I am so excited to connect with more of you, and build the circle of friends God has begun via IG. I know the Lord has plans for this— there are friends out there waiting to meet, and so many who feel isolated longing to feel fellowship. Will you join me in praying that the Quilting Circle Chats are used for God’s glory, to encourage wives, mothers, and homemakers to continue in their faithful service to His Kingdom? I hope to see you there!
In Christ,
Heather