If you’ve spent any time here at (in)courage, you know we believe in putting on our comfiest pair of sweatpants and pulling up an overstuffed chair to this virtual table. We believe in sharing stories and life and Jesus with each other. We come just the way we are. We link arms as sisters in Christ, giving thanks for the gift of someone else who is able to give voice to our unspoken struggles. We gather to speak hope over broken hearts, to infuse joy and courage into the gloriously ordinary every day.
Because life is messy and boy, do we need each other!
We need to grapple together over issues we can’t easily solve. We need to lean on one another for wisdom, strength, and insight beyond our own experience. We need to point each other to the heart of Jesus. We need to be and become the body of Christ.
We have felt for quite a while that it’s time to draw our circle even wider. To scootch our chairs over, build a bigger table, and make room for more beautiful faces and glorious voices.
Today, we are humbled and grateful and downright giddy to introduce you to the ten writers who will be adding their inspiring voices to the (in)courage conversation as new contributors!
We’ve asked them to say hello in their own words. Please join us in welcoming these real-deal women to (in)courage!
Anjuli Paschall
@lovealways.anjuli
Well hello! I’m Anjuli. If we were meeting in real life, I would awkwardly bypass the handshake and move in for the hug. If we were close friends, and I hope we will be, you would know that I have a weakness for top ramen, Friday Night Lights, and online shopping. You would know that I listen more than I share, cry more than I get angry, and sing more than I exercise. But mostly, you would know that I love Jesus.
I live near the coast in San Diego, CA. I have five incredible children (ages 11-8 months) and one handsome husband who pastors at a local church. After traveling as a wedding photographer for years, I realized I liked writing and connecting vulnerably with the hearts of women just as much as photography. So now, I meet with mommas daily on IG — our modern day well — and write about my crazy-glorious-chaotic motherhood life and how Jesus meets me in the middle of it all. I’m also the founder of “The Moms We Love Club,” an IG campaign that supports moms enduring long-term suffering. I believe that social media can be an incredible platform to practice gospel love.
I am so grateful to be a part of this community. One thing I love about you all is how beautiful and honest you are with each other. I come here and exhale. I look forward to walking the next leg of life with you, growing and giving but mostly learning how to love and simply be loved in return, together.
Dorina Lazo Gilmore
@DorinaLazoGilmore
Hi, I’m Dorina. I am delighted to join the (in)courage team and gather at the table with women from across the world. The words on (in)courage have mentored me for many years and many seasons. I am a big city girl raised in Chicago and transplanted to Central California after college. My husband and I worked in Haiti for more than a decade, helping lead a non-profit and a social goods jewelry business. My husband graduated to Heaven in 2014 after a hard battle with cancer. I blog about chasing God’s glory even on the unexpected journeys.
I am also passionate about teaching Bible study and helping women from diverse backgrounds flourish in their God-given callings. I have published two studies, Glory Chasers and Flourishing Together, and a children’s picture book, Cora Cooks Pancit.
In 2016, I married a long-time friend, Shawn, and together we are raising three daughters to love the cultural diversity, glorious landscapes, and unique food of our state. My happy place is near the ocean reading a book or running on California’s mountain trails in search of glimpses of God’s glory.
Grace P. Cho
@gracepcho
Hi, I’m Grace. If I could sum up who I am in two words, it would be both/and. I’m both Korean and American with a little bit of Kazakhstan thrown in there. I’m both a woman and a leader, a writer and an editor, a wife and a mother. I am each of those things and all of those things. I love deep talks over food, chocolate with my coffee, and leggings as my preferred style of pants.
I’ve written for various places online — The Mudroom, GraceTable, Inheritance, and iBelieve — and now I’m honored to be writing for (in)courage as well. As a staff member and a contributor, I’m excited for the new faces you’ll see here, the stories from different perspectives you will read, and for all of us to experience more of God’s kingdom in this community.
Kaitlyn Bouchillon
@kaitlyn_bouch
Hi, friend! I’m Kaitlyn, a twenty-five-year-old Florida-girl who has made the Magic City (Birmingham, Alabama) home. I’ve been blogging for nearly a decade, I’ll never turn down an iced vanilla latte, and Instagram is my favorite.
I’m the author of Even If Not: Living, Loving, and Learning in the in Between, a book for the broken hopefuls, the ones who are desperate to see God’s goodness on every page of their story (even in the storylines that wound and surprise). But I’m convinced we’ll find Him to be faithful in the every-day mundane, too. In the crowded streets and the blue skies and the friends that feel like family. I’m so grateful God meets us in the beautiful ordinary of right now.
Back in 2012, I served as the first (in)courage (in)tern and all these years later I’m still hanging out here behind-the-scenes, tweeting and posting and getting to know beautiful you through social media. I’m thrilled to be one of the new contributors, and honored to now serve on this side of the screen as well!
Lucretia Berry
@lucretiaberry
I’m Lucretia, wife to the amazing Nathan, mom of three little women, and creator of Brownicity – The Art and Beauty of Living & Loving Beyond Race. For some reason, people find our family — aka the BerryPatch — a safe resource for asking hard questions about race. Go figure! So, here I am contributing our voice to help folks love more and fear less regarding such a complex and nuanced issue.
In my passion for racial healing, I created a curriculum to support beginners to the conversation called, What LIES Between Us Journal & Guide, with an emphasis on dispelling the LIES that we’ve internalized about race/ism. My only intention was to use it when I facilitated small groups. I did not imagine that pastors, ministry leaders, educators, and others would deem it valuable and useful and that I’d be teaching hundreds of people at a time! Fortunately, I love teaching! And I love helping parents and teachers grow their capacity to have conscious, courageous, and creative conversations about race/ism with children. I even did a TEDx Talk about it!
In my quiet time (yea, right!), I indulge in dark chocolate-covered almonds and dancing — all styles, but hip hop is my favorite! I am looking forward to how, together, we will illuminate God’s love for the world through (in)courage!
Michele Cushatt
@michelecushatt
Good heavens, I’m fan-girling all over y’all right now. I can’t believe I get to hang out with you! Okay, an introduction. I’m Michele, a word-lover and green-tea-drinker from the mountains of Colorado. I’m a life-long Jesus lover whose faith was wrecked by ministry failure, divorce, blended family, trauma-adoption parenting, and tongue cancer (Three times. Yep, three.). And that’s just the beginning. The short of it: I’ve become a (reluctant) expert in pain, suffering, trauma, living with a disability, and the long-term fallout of all of the above. The good news? Jesus is with us. In the middle of every hard part of it. And although I don’t always understand Him, I trust Him.
Let’s just say, it’s complicated.
On any given day, you can find me reading a ridiculous variety of books, hiking at altitude, or herding my six children (ages 11 to 26). Professionally, I write books (Undone and I Am), do podcasts, and coach women who want to lead well. And, most importantly, I hang out in the hard places. If you’re deeply hungry for a faith that can weather the most impossible circumstances, then let’s chat. I can’t wait to do this life together.
Michelle Reyes
@dr_reyes2
Namaste! My name is Michelle, and I’m an East Indian gal married to an incredibly wonderful and handsome Latino, Aaron, and we have one sweet, little Indo-Mex toddler (with baby girl coming very soon!).
I am passionate about embracing people for how God has made them ethnically, culturally, and linguistically. Much of this passion stems from my own background and journey. Sometimes I feel like I don’t fit into one neat little category: my theology is evangelical (and I also happen to be the pastor’s wife of a multicultural church in Austin, TX); my traditions and palette are Indian; my educational background is German (i.e., I’m a German professor); my American upbringing shapes my enthusiasm for football and soccer; my love for literature is partially due to my introverted personality (and I love blogging with my husband about how to study the Bible literarily); and yet I also love hosting big parties and cooking for days because that’s just part of my cultural DNA. See what I mean? I’m sure many of you can relate.
Praise God that, as believers, He not only reigns supreme over our diverse identities but also redeems them and (re)defines them for His glory. For all these reasons and more, I’m passionate about all things faith, family, and diversity. I can’t wait to bring these discussions to the table at (in)courage, and be strengthened and sharpened by the women in this community as well.
Patricia Raybon
@patriciaraybon
Hello, I’m Patricia! I grew up out West in Colorado — where I still live — in love with God’s big sky, God’s bright sunshine, God’s bountiful array of people, and with the Jesus of the Bible and the power of His grace-filled Word. I’m a wife, mom, sister, neighbor, mother-in-law, grandma, student of life, teacher of peace, and front-porch friend.
More than all, however, I’m a writer. God blesses me to mess around every day with words. That’s my ministry — writing to reach people for Him, inviting them to know Him, through my humble gifts of books, blogs, devotionals, essays, articles, and, now, with God’s help, through (in)courage. I’m excited to meet you in Christ, our Living Word. Thanks, everyone, for welcoming this Jesus-loving scribe to your beautiful friendship table. Let’s eat!
Tasha Burgoyne
@tashajunb
Hi there. I’m Tasha, and I am over-the-moon to be joining the beautiful (in)courage community as a writer!
For the first half of my life, I lived in-hiding: feeling lost between cultures, continents, translations, and dreams, as if I was always one impossible step away from where I was supposed to be. Stories have changed everything for me. Reading them, sharing them, and learning to embrace my own while moving towards those different from my own, has brought me one little homecoming after another. They’ve confirmed to me that we all belong to one another. Most importantly, they have brought me to the Master Storyteller, Jesus, who I believe holds the hope and home of every story.
If you hung out with me for a day, you would discover a few non-negotiables about me: I drink coffee every morning (and sometimes dream about it at night), I am in love with my husband Matt, who I first noticed because of the unmatched kindness I saw in his eyes, I chase three amazing kids around all day, I love giving courage to others, and I am more likely to be found day-dreaming about stories and adventures than getting our laundry done. So glad to be here!
Becky Keife
@beckykeife
Friends! I’m no stranger here at (in)courage, having worked on staff for a year and a half as an editorial coordinator and now serving as your Community Manager, but I’ve never held the gift of being an official (in)courage contributor. The way I feel about getting to pull a seat up to this table on the regular and shine a light on God’s fingerprints in my life mirrors my joy in the picture above when I made it through a Trader Joe’s shopping trip without losing my cool or a kid and sticking to my list! There’s a first for everything!
But if we haven’t met yet, I’m Becky! I love words. A lot. I love encouraging women in the thick of it, whether through the page or on a stage or in the checkout line at Target. I’m passionate about capturing the grit and beauty of ordinary days. I live near the foothills in sunny Southern California with my volleyball coach husband, Chris, and our three spirited sons. My soul comes alive when I’m breathing deep in God’s creation. My ideal weekend would involve connecting deeply with a friend, taking a long afternoon nap, and trekking through shady trails with my crazy boy crew.
Anyone else wishing we could reach through these screens for one great big group hug?
Again we say, Welcome, welcome, beautiful friends!
We are so glad you’re here and so full of expectant joy for what God has in store for us as we all pull up our chairs to the table, lean in a little closer, and listen a little deeper. What a gift to link arms as God’s daughters living out His great Story together.
Get to know our new contributors more over here!
Leave a Comment
Bev @ Walking Well With God says
Welcome new (in)courage contributors!!
I’ve been around here a long time and I’m so glad the circle is expanding and including women of many different walks and cultures. I know I lived neatly in my little bubble until God called me to start a Christian school in Pakistan. I knew very little about the Middle Eastern culture, but boy has God had me on a marvelous adventure. I now crave and make Pakistani dishes and can speak a little Urdu. What I’ve really learned is that Christ’s love speaks in many tongues and to many people – those whose lives that have been comfortable and those whose lives have been wrought with pain and suffering. It’s the latter from whom I think we can learn a lot about true trust and faith. Thank you for pulling a seat up to the circle. I truly look forward to the fresh perspectives you have to share. I hope that some one of you can testify to what it is like to truly be persecuted for your faith. I think that is one aspect we are missing. Again, welcome and I lift a cup of coffee to all of you avid coffee drinkers (I’ve dreamt about it too lol).
Blessings,
Bev xx
Tasha says
Thank you, Bev! What amazing adventures you have been on. Thank you for sharing.
Alia Joy says
Bev is the best. She is always among the first to comment and has such beautiful insight, adding her encouragement to all of us as we write in this space.
Renee Swope says
Bev, your constant encouragement and presence are such a HUGE gift to each of us. I look forward to reading your words every time I’m here! 🙂 You are so loved!
Jennifer Dukes Lee says
Ditto, Alia Joy! Bev is so awesome.
Dawn Camp says
Agreed! Thank you, Bev, for being such an encourager here at (in)courage.
Becky Keife says
Raising my cup of coffee to you, too, Bev! Can’t wait to learn from these wonderful new friends!
Michele Cushatt says
“What I’ve really learned is that Christ’s love speaks in many tongues and to many people.” Well said, Bev. Thank you for learning and growing, and then teaching us! Grateful.
Grace P. Cho says
Thank you, Bev! Yes, I’m excited for all of us to hear stories from new perspectives. Thank you for being such a faithful person in this community!
Kaitlyn Bouchillon says
Thank you, Bev! You’re always so faithful to read and comment on each post… We’re so glad to have YOU here.
Lisa-Jo Baker says
Gosh we love you Bev!
Kristen Strong says
So much love for our dear Bev! xoxo
Patricia Raybon says
Blessings, dear Bev. “Christ’s love speaks in many tongues and to many people.” Thank you for inspiring–and for your warm welcome. So excited to connect!
Dorina Gilmore-Young says
Grateful for that story, Bev! I know that we are all richer when we read and enter into many diverse stories. I’m excited to be included at this table of writers!
Mary says
How exciting to bring some new voices to in(courage)! I am familiar with the writings of some of these women and look forward to getting to know the others. Especially happy to see Grace Cho is among the newbies!
Michele Cushatt says
I look forward to getting to know you too, Mary.
Grace P. Cho says
Thanks, Mary!! It’s fun to see overlap in writing places. <3
Tasha says
Thank you, Mary!!
Patricia Raybon says
Feel the same, dear Mary. Thanks so much for your warm welcome!
Dorina Lazo Gilmore says
Thank you for sharing our excitement, Mary!
Becky Keife says
Thank you, Mary! (I’m especially happy to have Grace here too! Both as a writer and editor!)
Diana Gomez says
Thank you and Bless you for joining the team! I look forward to be encouraged by each one of you; once again thank you to your servitude to our Lord Jesus Christ. Much love!
Grace P. Cho says
Thanks, Diana! We’re excited to be part of the team!!
Tasha says
Thanks so much, Diana. It’s such a gift to be here.
Patricia Raybon says
Thank you so much, dear Diana! It’s wonderful to connect!
Dorina Lazo Gilmore says
For His Glory, Diana! Thank you for reading!
Michele Cushatt says
Much love right back, Diana!
Stephanie Bryant says
Group hug!!! What beautiful women & words. Thrilled you are joining us for this journey. Can’t wait to meet each of you in person.
Michele Cushatt says
Likewise, Stephanie!
Grace P. Cho says
Thanks for creating this space, Stephanie!! Excited to be a part of it now!!
Kaitlyn Bouchillon says
((hug)) grateful to be here!
Tasha says
Thrilled to be joining. Thank you, Stephanie!
Patricia Raybon says
Hugging back, Stephanie! Blessings and warmest thanks for your welcome!
Dorina Lazo Gilmore says
I’m a hugger & happy to be included in this one! 😉
Becky Keife says
Stephanie, I can’t imagine getting to this day without you! So expectant for what God has for us all next. #bettertogether
Lisa-Jo Baker says
Well my word what a PHENOMENAL group of women! I’m wishing I could jump through this post and just hug each of you so tight! I’m so thrilled to meet those of you I don’t know yet and so looking forward to each of your stories. What a joy to get to gather here with you and pull up chairs and cups of coffee together! I’m just a big ol’ mess of excitement and anticipation and thrilled to call you all sisters.
So much love
Lisa-Jo
Grace P. Cho says
Thanks, Lisa-Jo! Raising my cup of coffee to you this morning!
Lisa-Jo Baker says
Cheers!
Kaitlyn Bouchillon says
So much love. Thanks for being a cheerleader!
Lisa-Jo Baker says
Just SO delighted to see you here and looking forward to your writing in this space!
Jennifer Dukes Lee says
Thank you, Lisa-Jo Baker, for all you’ve done to make this the place that it is today. You’ve been a fantastic leader for (in)courage, and while we already miss you, it will be so exciting to see where God leads you in the next phase of your journey. Good thing there’s such a thing as the Internet and such a thing as Voxer to stay in touch with you, or we’d all be a mess. Love you.
Kristen Strong says
Ditto! If it weren’t for connecting with you via the internet and voxer, it would be a dark, dark existence. So thankful for all you’ve done for (in)courage and the ways you support all women everywhere! You are so cherished!
Lisa-Jo Baker says
Man this place and these women and this community– home forever!
Michele Cushatt says
What she said. Thank you for leading us all well. xo
Lisa-Jo Baker says
SO thrilled to watch where the Lord leads (in)courage next!
Tasha says
Thanks for your excitement and encouragement, Lisa-Jo. So grateful to be here.
Lisa-Jo Baker says
Thrilled to get to lean in and learn from all of you, Tasha!
Patricia Raybon says
You inspire, Lisa-Jo! Thanks so much for encouraging and welcoming so warmly. Onward!
Lisa-Jo Baker says
Amen sister! Can’t wait to follow your stories Patricia!
Becky Keife says
Lisa-Jo, what can I say? We are your people! Forever and ever, amen. Thank you for all the ways you have welcomed me to the table. It’s my great joy and honor to get to serve here and link arms with such extraordinary company.
Lisa-Jo Baker says
Sister! So excited about where you are leading us all.
Dorina Lazo Gilmore says
I just have to say that is because of you that I found (in)courage, Lisa-Jo! You all have mentored me through the years, and I’m forever grateful. I’m even more thrilled to have the privilege of writing here!
Lisa-Jo Baker says
Dorina! That makes me pretty teary-eyed! What a journey we’ve all been on together. I’m so filled with anticipation for this next season!
Dawn Camp says
We love you, Lisa-Jo!
Lisa-Jo Baker says
Love you right back!
Cyndi Malefyt says
As I read through each of these introductions, I am amazed by each of these women’s passion for God, their family, their writing, and just life in general! I can’t wait to read all of their contributions from all of their diversified walks of life. I love all the different ‘shades’ of God’s kingdom coming through!
Welcome to all!
Michele Cushatt says
The different shades of God’s kingdom … couldn’t agree more! It’s beautiful. So glad you are a part of this circle of friends, Cyndi.
Grace P. Cho says
Yes to more diversity! May the beauty and power of our stories usher in God’s kingdom into this community!
Tasha says
What kind words. Thank you, Cyndi! So glad you are here.
Patricia Raybon says
Excited with you, dear Cyndi. Thanks for your vision and welcome!
Becky Keife says
Cyndi, you’ve captured my shared joy and excitement beautifully! Thank you.
Nasreen Fynewever says
Ever widening the reflection of Christ, allowing the fullness of His glory to be known more. Congratulations to the new contributors and thank you to (in)courage for stepping forward in health and beauty, growth and goodness. The arena feels more of belonging to me already…
Becky Keife says
Thank you, Nasreen! Your kind response brings joy to my heart!
Alia Joy says
I love this. Ever widening that reflection for every to feel a little more invited and seen.
Grace P. Cho says
Nasreen!! Your comment makes me want to cry! It’s profound to see ourselves reflected. <3
Kaitlyn Bouchillon says
I love this… “The arena feels more of belonging to me already.”
Tasha says
“Ever widening the reflection of Christ, allowing the fullness of His glory to be known more.” I love that. Thank you, Nasreen.
Patricia Raybon says
Thank you, Nasreen! “Ever widening the reflection of Christ.” So beautiful. It’s wonderful to connect today!
Dorina Lazo Gilmore says
You are welcome here too, my friend. Thank you for taking time to encourage us!
Debra says
Congratulations to all the new contributors! I cannot wait to read your sharings!
Tasha says
Thank you so much, Debra!
Becky Keife says
Debra, thanks for joining in this day of warm welcomes!
Kia Stephens says
So excited to read articles from these new voices!
Michele Cushatt says
Thank you, Kia! Looking forward to learning from and with you. xo
Tasha says
Thank you, Kia!! So grateful for what you do.
Jen says
Welcome to all the new contributors! I love to be encouraged by (in) courage devotionals in my in-box. As a mom of 2 college boys, I want a similar source of encouragement for them. Anyone know of a good blog or daily email devotional for college age guys? Thank you and I’m excited for what God has in store for this new group!
Kaitlyn Bouchillon says
Thank you, Jen! I don’t know of a daily blog (maybe someone else will chime in here!) but I’ve heard great things about He Reads Truth. I love SRT and know that they have several wonderful plans throughout the year, as well as a great app. Maybe HRT has the same?
Jen says
Thank you!
Tasha says
Thanks, Jen! And what a great idea. I wish I knew of something.
Denise Pass says
How wonderful! Such a neat group of new contributors! Michele Cushatt, I am fan girling!!! So excited to see how God uses you here.
Becky Keife says
Right? What a profound joy to have Michele Cushatt and all these amazing women join us around the (in) table! Thanks so much for being part of the community, Denise!
Michele Cushatt says
Ah, sweet Denise! Thank you, friend. You’ll love all of these women … sisters, every one.
Denise Pass says
So grateful for how much you inspired me at Leverage, along with Kathi, Cheri and crew. Truly a blessing. God is using you! <3
Lara says
Let me wish these wonderful new contributors a very warm “Hi Y’all” from my Southern corner of the world! I am so excited to read your stories and hear about your love for Jesus. I am so blessed to do life with everyone here at (in)courage!
Welcome, Welcome, Welcome!
Joy in Jesus,
Lara
Grace P. Cho says
Thanks, Lara!!
Tasha says
Thank you, Lara!!!
Becky Keife says
Receiving this warm welcome, Lara! Thank you so much for being here! xoxo
Robin Dance says
Ladies…LOVIES…WELCOME! We are thrilled to have you join us, and cannot wait to hear your voices in this space. Each of you brings new breath, newness of life, and we celebrate in advance the ways the Lord will bring glory to His name through your work and words.
xo
Kaitlyn Bouchillon says
Thank you for the warm welcome (in), Robin!
Patricia Raybon says
Celebrating with you, dear Robin! Thank you so much!
Becky Keife says
Yes and amen, Robin! Agreeing and grinning wide with you! xoxo
Michele Cushatt says
The fact that you said “Lovies?” I already adore you.
Jolene says
What a beautiful round up of new voices! Congrats to all who are adding to (in)Courage and to all of us who will benefit from their words!!
Kaitlyn Bouchillon says
Thank you, Jolene! I’m so glad to see you here in the comments, girl, and I hope you’ll stick around… I have much to learn from you!
Patricia Raybon says
Delighted to connect with you today, Jolene. Kindest thanks for your warm welcome!
Becky Keife says
Thank you, Jolene! I’m full of expectant joy for this new season! Grateful to have you here.
Liz Curtis Higgs says
What a fantastic group of women! And what depth and diversity you’ll bring to our daily conversations around the (in)courage table. May the Lord fill your hearts with the words we need most to grow in our faith.
Kaitlyn Bouchillon says
Your words are so kind, dear Liz. Hoping you’re doing well today!
Patricia Raybon says
Honored to connect, wonderful Liz. Thank you, indeed, for your leadership and prayers. Your warm welcome, too. Means so much!
Becky Keife says
Liz, just your little gravatar photo brings a smile to my face! Thank you for these warm words and your generous support along the way! You will always be an (in)courage sister welcome at this table! xx
Michele Cushatt says
You already know how much I love you, friend. What a sweet gift to share this space with you.
Lyli says
Yay!!! So exciting! Looking forward to reading your words.
Patricia Raybon says
Thanks so much, Lyli. (Your name spelling is gorgeous!) Delighted to connect!
Becky Keife says
Lyli, thanks for sharing in the excitement! It’s a joy to serve here…and I can’t wait to soak up the wisdom from these amazing women, too!
Julie Garmon says
WOW!!
Can’t wait to get to know the new writers! Blessings and welcome.
Much love,
Julie (a blogger/writer/coffee and crochet lover in Georgia)
Patricia Raybon says
Wonderful to connect with you, Julie! Warmest thanks for your kind Georgia welcome! (From Patricia–in Colorado!)
Becky Keife says
Thank you, Julie! Raising my reheated cup of afternoon coffee to you!
Dorina Lazo Gilmore says
Hi Julie! Thank you for the warm welcome. I’m a yarn lover too. 😉
Kate Motaung says
Such fabulous news! Welcome to each and every one of you! Thrilled to see you all here, and I look forward to reading more of your hearts!
Grace P. Cho says
Thanks, Kate!! It was so good meeting you in person last week!
Patricia Raybon says
Kate Motaung! We have to stop meeting like this! Actually, I’m delighted to connect with you here at (in)courage. Excited to stay in touch!
Becky Keife says
Thank you, Kate! We love your longtime (in)courage friendship and support!
Michele Cushatt says
Likewise, Kate!
Melody Rowlette Miracle says
Welcome aboard women of God ….
I am almost 61 and enjoy seeing the posts on Facebook …. Thank you for incouraging me and everyone else .
Gods Blessings to you All
Kaitlyn Bouchillon says
Thank you, Melody. I’m so glad you’re here!
Patricia Raybon says
Blessings, Melody. Your beautiful name is a song! It’s delightful to connect today. Warmest thanks for your kind welcome!
Becky Keife says
We’re so glad you’re here, Melody! Thank you for the warm welcome.
Anna Rendell says
We simply could not be happier to have you all at the table. The heartiest of big awkward hug welcome to each of you!!!
Grace P. Cho says
Yay!! Can’t wait for real hugs soon!
Patricia Raybon says
Thanks so much, Anna! Sending a big, awkward hug back your way, too!! Blessings today!
Becky Keife says
You know I love me an Anna hug! It was one of things that made me love you from the first time we met almost two years ago! So grateful to get to serve and journey with you, friend. xx
Penny says
Welcome ladies,
Thank-you all for joining, what a joy to have you here. Looking forward to the words that each of you have to share.
Blessings to all,
Penny
Patricia Raybon says
Blessings, Penny. It’s delight to connect with you today. Your warm welcome feels like a hug. Thanks so much for reaching out!
Becky Keife says
Thank you, dear Penny!
Dorina Lazo Gilmore says
Grateful to be here with you at the table, Penny!
Alia Joy says
I’m thrilled, just downright giddy that you all are joining us and we get to expand the table and hear your stories. Welcome!
Grace P. Cho says
#inittogether
Patricia Raybon says
Thank you, Alia Joy! Onward!!
Brenda says
Congrats to all the sweet new voices joining the (in)courage team! I look forward to gathering ’round this table of sisterhood with you. ♥
Patricia Raybon says
Warmest thanks, dear Brenda. Your kind welcome means so much. Onward we go! For Christ!
Michele Cushatt says
So glad you’re here, Brenda.
Kelly Balarie says
What beautiful faces and warm hearts!
Patricia Raybon says
Thank you, dear Kelly. It’s wonderful to connect!
Michele Cushatt says
Ah, sweet Kelly. How beautiful to see your name here. Love to you. xo
Pearl Allard says
So exciting! Congratulations to all the new contributors! I just read a blog post by Michele Cushatt and then popped over here and saw Michele here, too!!! (Maybe just a little excited!) May God bless each of you with the words to share and the faith and confidence to overcome any attacks of doubt the enemy might try to employ as you embark on new adventures to encourage. Grateful for each of you!
Patricia Raybon says
Thank you so much, dear Pearl. (Love your beautiful name!) And any fan of Michele’s is a friend of mine. It’s delightful to connect!
Becky Keife says
Amen to all of that, Pearl! Thank you so much.
Dorina Lazo Gilmore says
Pearl, thank you for that pertinent reminder on this new journey! Blessings to you!
Michele Cushatt says
Hi there, dear Pearl. Thrilled to see you at this table, too. xo
Carol says
God bless you all. More rich blessings to come!
Patricia Raybon says
Thank you so much, Carol. It’s delightful to connect!
Renee Swope says
Oh my. This day has been longed for and prayed for, by all of us, for quite a while. YOU ARE SO WELCOME friends! We are seriously giddy to have you join us, and cannot wait to read your words, and listen to and learn from hear your stories at this table. As I read through your stories and see your beautiful faces, Im overwhelmed by God’s goodness, His glorious creativity, beauty and belonging woven together today in a tapestry of His love and grace!! I can’t wait to meet you all and watch this next season of the “new thing” He is doing unfold before us. #wearebettertogether
Kaitlyn Bouchillon says
You put into words just what I was thinking reading through the intros, too. “I’m overwhelmed by God’s goodness, His glorious creativity, beauty and belonging woven together today in a tapestry of His love and grace!”
Patricia Raybon says
So well said, dear Renee. May we honor His gorgeous tapestry with faithful service. Thanks for inspiring and welcoming. Means so much!
Becky Keife says
Renee, I just love you, friend. Thank you for all those unseen prayers. They have helped pave the way for today! Onward together!
Dorina Lazo Gilmore says
I’ve already had real tears today with this same sentiment, my friend. Simply basking in His glory!
Grace P. Cho says
Thanks, Renee! I’m so glad we’re at the same table together!!
Holley Gerth says
What an exciting day!! I’m thrilled and looking forward to getting to know each of you more. Grateful for the gift of your words and hearts in this space. XOXO
Patricia Raybon says
Blessings, Holley. What a wonderful welcome! Excited to connect with you and everyone here!
Becky Keife says
Holley, what a gift to have a space like (in)courage to welcome women into. Would you ever have dreamed what God would do through this place? Thank you so much for stewarding well the gift entrusted to your care and for entrusting it to all of us.
Dorina Lazo Gilmore says
Holley, thank you for your vision and investment! Grateful!
Becky Daye says
It always amazes me to see God bringing his girls together. Reading these introductions has been a reminder of the beautiful diversity God has placed in this world to encourage and build up each other! Thanks (in)courage for loving this community so well! Welcome to all of the new contributors!!
Patricia Raybon says
What a kind welcome, Becky Daye. Thank you so much for reaching out! Means so much!
Becky Keife says
Thank you, Becky! The beauty of the body of Christ overwhelms me. It’s a gift that we get to steward part of that here. xx
Dorina Lazo Gilmore says
Becky, indeed! Our God defines creative, no?!
Michele Cushatt says
Isn’t it exquisite! Love the colors and textures and fragrance of God’s family.
marilyn says
Welcome!! I love, no, let me rephrase that, I deeply love the cultural diversity and walks of life on each of the descriptions I read. I am so looking forward to reading your contributions and how I already know is going to impact my aching heart. I say it again, WELCOME!!
Patricia Raybon says
Blessings, dear Marilyn! Thanks so much for your warm welcome. Many voices. Many stories. Like you, I’m excited to connect and learn. Thanks for reaching out to say “greetings”!
Becky Keife says
Thank you, Marilyn! I feel exactly the same way!!
The Enkourager says
Excited to hear some new perspectives from some new faces!
Patricia Raybon says
Thank you so much! Delighted to connect with you today!
Kristen Strong says
Well, y’all might’ve heard me hollering with the happy just now (especially you fellow Colorado girls, Michele and Patricia!) as I just read your beautiful words. It’s my joy and honor to join all the rest in welcoming you to the table–to the family. You are welcomed with the widest arms, as beloved as can be. I can’t wait to read your words and learn and be encouraged from your beautiful, Jesus-shining selves. Sending so much love to you Anjuli, Dorina, Grace, Kaitlyn, Lucretia, Michele, Michelle, Patricia, Tasha, and Becky!
Patricia Raybon says
Hollering with the happy! Love that, Kristen! Thanks for your warm welcome. Excited to connect soon!
Anjuli paschall says
Ahhh thank you! I’m so grateful to be here with you!
Michele Cushatt says
Joining my holler with yours and Patricia’s! 🙂
Grace P. Cho says
Thanks, Kristen!! So glad to be in this with you!!
Karina Allen says
Welcome! Welcome! I am thrilled at these additions! I am believing for such beauty, grace and encouragement to fill this new season of (in)courage! I can’t wait to get to know each of you and hear your stories! Grateful for the ever widening of the table!!!
Patricia Raybon says
Blessings, dear Karina! It’s delightful to connect with you today. Kindest thanks for your warm welcome. I’m excited to meet and serve with you. Onward we go! At the table!
dee says
Welcome, welcome, welcome!! I’m looking forward to hearing more of your stories and learning from you!!
Becky Keife says
Thank you, sweet Dee! I feel the same way.
Patricia Raybon says
Thank you so much, Dee! Delighted to connect today!
Susan Bricker says
What a blessing these 10 amazing ladies will be not only to (in) courage but all the readers of this amazing ministry. I love seeing names of women that I have loved following and been inspired by for years!
Becky Keife says
Susan, thank you for the warm welcome! I’m so excited for this new season and the richness each of these new voices will bring! Thanks for being here!
Dorina Lazo Gilmore says
Grateful for your encouraging words, Susan!
Dale says
Welcome new (in)courage contributors, I look forward to reading each of your stories. What a joy to get together with these amazing woman to be able to learn and encourage others in knowing our Lord Jesus Christ.
Becky Keife says
Thank you, Dale!
Rashawnda Dunbar says
Welcome to all of the new (in)courage writers! I look forward to “seeing” you in this wonderful community of awesome women. May God continue to bless you and use you mightily as you share the breathings of your hearts, for His glory. ((Hugs))
Dorina Lazo Gilmore says
Rashawnda, that means so much! Thank you for seeing and joining us here!
Jenny K says
I’ve been so blessed by the (in)courage blog I came across after I picked up the “Never Unfriended” book last fall and wondered what (in)courage was all about. It’s become part of my daily devotion routine, in fact helped me start out on a daily devotion routine. Your stories have truly helped me to grow my faith, help me see how God views me, and given me valuable tools to try to encourage those around me. I love the pictures at the top of the blogs-I won’t lie that I sometimes print them out and hang them on my collage board just as a reminder of the message that made an impact on me. I’m so excited for all that is to come this year on (in)courage, thank you so much for this ministry!
Dorina Lazo Gilmore says
I love that you save the images as reminders, Jenny! What a wonderful idea! I find that it’s easy to plow through blogs and articles and not really let their messages seep deep into our souls. I love that you take time to savor and reflect. Thank you for sharing!
Beth Williams says
Welcome new In Courage writers. This space has been a haven for many women to land & tell their stories. Thanks Stephanie & Holley for having the vision to start this. Lisa-Jo thanks for leading us with your quirky style. There are various seasons in people’s lives & in the life of In Courage as well. It is time for us to expand our table & invite more women to join us & share in the wonder that is God! I have been blessed to really get to know some of the writers here. Looking forward with anticipation to the wonderful stories from these Godly women. Sending a loud Tennessee HOWDY to Anjuli, Dorina, Grace, Kaitlyn, Lucretia, Michele, Michelle, Patricia, Tasha, and Becky! May God bless the work you will be doing here.
Blessings 🙂
Dorina Lazo Gilmore says
So grateful, Beth! And a big HI, GIRL from California back to you! 😉
Mari Hernandez-Tuten says
I absolutely love this! I want to honor the beautiful words each of these women write and the giftedness God has given them as they express His truth in ways that relate to women–all women. I also want to celebrate the diversity (in)courage is embracing. You’ve gone from “good intention conversations” to “let’s do something about it” that is commendable. I have this little saying that helps me, put things into perspective “Good intentions are about “me” because I can walk away patting myself on the back having done nothing.” But good intentions with action that’s when change starts to happen beyond me. As a Hispanic Christian I always look at the contributor/speaker list of Christian websites and Christian conferences and it’s usually despairing to see the mono-ethnic list. I’m excited to see change arising in the Christian community!
Eunice B says
Ah….love how this circle is expanding and looking forward to hearing what God has to share with us through your pens and ink. <3 Thank you dear friends for faithfully sharing truth & hope with us and encouraging us through incourage!!! Giving you a group hug though the screen! 😉 As a married woman of 16 yrs, and childless due to unexplained infertility, I still struggle to find my place & calling among a world and community of mothers busy with their children. Don't get me wrong, I'm so thankful they HAVE been blessed with children and are raising them to love Lord, but it's a challenge for me, and most likely for them, too, to relate when our worlds are vastly different. Anyway…a warm welcome to you each, ladies, from chilly Southern Maine! 🙂 ~Eunice
Becky Keife says
Eunice, we’re so glad you’re here at the (in)courage table. Thank you for your warm welcome and for sharing a glimpse of your heart and story. Sending a hug back through the screen to you. In the midst of different circumstances and life stages, I’m so thankful we all have the bond of Christ and our deep need for Jesus to unite us. Much love.
Eunice B says
Thank you, Becky!! I’m so grateful for the bond of Christ, too! <3
Grace P. Cho says
Thanks, Eunice! May we and the church at large be a more welcome place and a place to connect and belong even when we’re not sharing similar stages or lives. <3 <3
Eunice B says
Thank you, Grace! Wonderful challenge for me, too! <3
AMELE says
HELLO, NEW CONTRIBUTORS!
WELCOME TO THIS GROUP! HOW DID YOU BECOME WRITERS? DID YOU TAKE CLASSES?
THANKS AND GOD BLESS YOU.