Michelle & Maugenhard Dorm 2011-2012
Past
Life as a resident assistant (big sister, maid, cook, driver, friend, confidant, etc.) here was a series of little moments. Serving in a guys’ dorm resulted in a steep learning curve for me because I grew up with three sisters and no brothers. However, through many times of asking too many questions, being excited during their “too cool” times, and seeming too eager to talk when they were in chill mode, this year has been a time of growing in servanthood and dying to my own self-centeredness to care sacrificially for others the way they needed and not just the way I thought they needed. Besides that, I had a blast! J
In the meantime, I got to take part in seeing our guys grow. Luke, Peter, and Thomas physically grew the
most, but the change that I was most excited about was the gradual change in heart and character:
Josiah started out more cocky and independent, and over the year he showed sweet tenderness towards
kids as well as served and advocated for others, including underclassmen. Brian became less cynical and
more social. Will came to declare Jesus as Savior and Lord. Evan and Syn’s rough exteriors softened as
they became more open to genuine faith and relationships with staff. Caleb is less self- consumed and looks out for Ethan.
I wish I could share stories about each one.
- Check out my Visual Tour Video of the facilities, students, and staff to give you a glimpse of Maugenhard.
Present
I love these guys! I grieve (and celebrate) that this school year is over, seven of our guys graduated, and our Black Forest Academy students are with their families all around the world for the summer. Some will start college for the first time. I pray that God will grow the seeds we have been able to plant and water
(1 Corinthians 3:5-15).
Future
God is opening up doors for me to use my room that is being expanded over the summer to become a small apartment as a safe space for fellowship and rest next year. I hope to use it as an avenue to mentor several girls from a nearby dorm as well.I am nervous about how it will be with new RAs here next year, but I deeply love these guys! I am excited to see how God will continue growing everyone in the dorm as we use the gifts God has given us for doing His work and draw near to Him.
I appreciate how you have been involved in the ministry of Maugenhard dorm. I invite you to continue giving or start giving of your prayers, care and finances this next year as I return to the dorm after three more weeks in Indiana this summer. In order to continue serving here, I need the Body of Christ to continue giving to what God is doing.
Will you join me next year?
Email me: mwaters@teachbeyond.orgor click here to get involved: Support Pledge Form.
Thank you for all the ways you cared for me and the people here this year. It is invaluable to me and to the people with whom I serve.
Love, Michelle
