My name is Ebony-Joy, and I serve as a Re:new mentor. I was looking for a new direction in my faith journey when I moved to Georgia in 2016. I found myself in a whirlwind of hardships: child loss, divorce, single parenthood, changes in jobs, getting accustomed to living in a new city. I found solace in attending services at North Point during these challenges. I faithfully dropped my two children in Wamba Land, and I made my way to the West Auditorium. I enjoyed being at a big church because at the time I thought it was good to just blend into the crowd. The church felt much smaller as time passed. Some of my favorite memories are riding the shuttle, my small group of women that are my sisters, the amazing team of greeters in West Auditorium, and outstanding leaders that continue to pour into my children.
After completing Oasis and Starting Point, I was introduced to my Re:new mentor. My mentor guided me through past and present challenges. I was reminded that I am a child of God even in adversity. Re:new allowed me to experience the freedom Jesus so graciously gives us. After completing Re:new, I wanted to serve in some role in the church. But I was hesitant because I thought with all my issues, there was no way I could serve. I thought I needed to be perfect. God continued to work on me. The truths I learned during Re:new continued to guide.
In time, I finally signed up to volunteer as a Re:new mentor. A few days after beginning the initial mentor training, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. During one of the most challenging times in my life, I decided to step out in faith and allow God to use me. I completed the training during the weeks leading to my surgery and treatment. I love being able to serve as a mentor. It’s a tangible way of participating in North Point’s mission to inspire people to follow Jesus. And I love that I am now able to guide others to experience the freedom that Jesus makes possible.
