Student Life Hosts “Worthy Now”
On October 11, Lee University held Worthy Now, a women’s conference for Lee students, staff and guests to remind them of their value and purpose. This year’s theme was “Honor the Process,” which was based on the scripture 2 Corinthians 4:8-9, which is a reminder that despite adversity, “we are never abandoned by God.”
Worthy Now, sponsored by Lee’s Student Life office, began in 2014 as a single service with one speaker and has since developed into a full conference with several sessions and multiple speakers.
This year’s event began with a message from keynote speaker Dr. Susan Ashcraft, Lee professor of psychology and human development, in which she challenged students to “step out of the boat” no matter what storm they were facing and walk with Jesus.
“There is no storm too wild, too devastating, too incredibly big that Christ cannot bring you out of into a place of calm and easy waters,” said Ashcraft. “Your trust in Him invites Him to walk with you through the storm and into your life where He will heal, restore, and make you new. He will guide you to a place where the storm ceases and peace is found.”
There were also four breakout sessions available for students, all of which were led by Lee faculty and staff. These sessions centered around learning to love and be loved, finding the gateway to hope, the transformative work of truth, and the intersection of grace and self-comparison.
“Three words to describe this year’s Worthy Now Conference are challenging, convicting, and inspiring,” said Jalyn Poynter, a senior nursing major. “The conversations stretch beyond just one night at a conference, and I look forward to continuing to learn from this event moving forward!”
The event was co-hosted by Lee students Karli Tilley and Tehilah Gichuru. Worship was provided by Jana Jones, Lee alumna, and Ariane York, administrative assistant in Student Life. During worship, a live abstract painting was created by Hannah Maggard, also a Lee alumna, that represented God bringing growth in heartache and beauty from ashes.
The evening concluded with giveaways and a reception, with desserts made by faculty and staff at Lee.
For more information about Worthy Now, contact the student life office at [email protected] or (423) 614-8400.
