As I wrap up my time as the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship (CBF) intern here at Ardmore, I want to take a moment to reflect on the experiences and opportunities that have made this summer so meaningful. I began this summer thinking that this internship would feel like an extension of the volunteer work I have done throughout my life, but I quickly discovered that it was something much deeper. Stepping into this role deepened my connection to a place that has always been home for me. This is where I was dedicated as a baby, baptized in elementary school, and where my faith was formed in the youth group. It is where I find myself returning each time I am able because, no matter where I go, I can never seem to find anywhere quite like it.
Through this program, I have had the privilege of working closely with both the staff from CBF as well as our staff at Ardmore. My summer included reading texts such as Acts, Henri Nouwen’s In the Name of Jesus, and Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s Life Together, as well as attending online seminars with Dr. Meredith Stone of Baptist Women in Ministry and Dr. Sarah Boberg of Campbell Divinity School. These resources and relationships provided invaluable space for deep spiritual formation and personal discernment about what lies ahead
Throughout the summer, I served in many areas of ministry and worship. Leading in worship was a profound privilege, as I was given the opportunity to preach and assist with serving communion to our congregation. Beyond Sunday mornings, I was able to step into the daily life of our church by helping with Vacation Bible School, chaperoning youth at Love Out Loud Student Camp, assisting with Da Capo music camp, working with the Women’s Ministry to host an ice cream social for Janee, and serving at The Dwelling’s mobile shower days—just to name a few. While each ministry has its own unique role, the most beautiful part of this experience was seeing how all of these distinct ministries align and come together for a shared purpose.
Returning to Love Out Loud Student Camp as a chaperone was a particularly meaningful full-circle moment for me. I remember attending as a camper the summer after my sophomore year of high school. It was such a special experience to be able to return to some of the same work sites nearly five years later. There is so much that makes this camp special, from serving directly within our city to working alongside students from different churches who unite to make a real difference in our community.
While I set out to contribute to Ardmore’s ministries this summer, I am walking away feeling deeply cared for and encouraged. The guidance from CBF and Ardmore staff, the opportunity for spiritual growth, and the care of this community have influenced me in ways I could not have imagined. Ardmore has been a place where my faith has been nurtured from childhood, and this summer has given me the gift of experiencing that same community in a new way. I am so grateful for this church family, for the staff and leadership who guided me, and for every moment of growth and connection this summer has brought.
