This past year interning for BFJN has been the most unexpected blessing. My start at BFJN was rather accidental. I had attended an event at Gordon College last spring that Elizabeth was speaking at. I went to hear about her experience as a lawyer and left with an appreciation and curiosity for the work and focus of BFJN. And although my initial introduction to BFJN may have felt “accidental,” I am certain that the Lord placed me here for a reason and His guiding hand has been evident throughout this season.

Over the past year, I have witnessed a lot of personal and professional growth. One of the greatest blessings of BFJN has been learning alongside Elizabeth and Ivy as well as the rest of our community. Some of the topics, such as mass incarceration and housing justice were new for me and the book clubs, uncomfortable conversations, and podcast episodes have been very formative. Having the space to learn about issues of injustice in the world and walk alongside them with fellow believers has impacted me in more ways than I can count.

Another key part of my time with BFJN that I will take with me as I leave is community. First, the community I have found with Elizabeth and Ivy has been life-giving. They are both strong, committed, passionate women of God. They are consistent and have pushed me to grow and mature over the past year. Additionally, they are fantastic encouragers and compassionate caregivers. I cannot thank them enough for their mentorship and stewardship. Second, I am grateful for the community of BFJN, that still can grow and take place even over the internet. Thank you to everyone who has engaged with our posts, blogs, podcasts, and has endeavored to learn alongside us over the past year.

My next adventure, starting in September, will be an internship with the Department of Justice where I will work in the Disability Rights Sector. Not only is this a personal passion of mine, but it also is an area of justice I have had the honor to explore with BFJN over the past year. As I enter into this new season, I will walk in the confidence that has been instilled in me by God and also by this incredible community to continue pursuing justice and radical generosity in this world.

Thank you, BFJN!