Thank you to Hannah: Women Connection – Eastminster Church for sponsoring this post, and to Courtney Iqbal, for sharing her experience!
It all begins with one small step. That’s what I kept telling myself after I moved my family from California back to Wichita following a difficult divorce. Most of my previous friends had moved off to other places, so I was starting completely over. I was so excited for a new beginning, yet completely terrified at the same time.
Starting over in your 30s as a single mom? There’s no blueprint for that.
After attending another Bible study, I was told I needed to check out a group called “Hannah” as well. Coffee, brunch, and friendship? Sign. Me. Up!
I longed for a community of women who would walk alongside me.
Friendship and Fellowship
I had no idea what to expect walking into my first day at Hannah. I just kept praying that I wouldn’t feel alone. Immediately upon entering, I was greeted with smiling faces and a huge, welcome hug. Women were eager to get to know the “new girl.” Before I knew it, I was connecting with women of all ages – women who had walked in my shoes before, who were quick to offer words of wisdom and encouragement.
During one of the first Hannah meetings I attended, a woman bravely shared her testimony. I could have written exactly what she shared. It was so familiar and relatable. Her words encouraged me. It gave me a new found hope that I was going to be okay. A sign from God that I was exactly where I needed to be.
I Prayed for What I Have Now
I have been attending Hannah for a couple of years now – I feel so blessed that God has allowed me to feel at home with this group. One of my favorite things about Hannah is the friendship and leadership. I know that whenever life gets too overwhelming, there will be a group of women who will stand beside me, pray for me, and encourage me the entire way.
Hannah Kids
My twins were 5 when we moved back to Wichita. They weren’t in school yet and were longing for friends just as much as I was. I prayed for months before our move that God would give us a community in Kansas; He did just that. My kids loved attending Hannah kids. While I was learning and connecting with Jesus, so were they!
After just a few months of being at Hannah, I was asked to be part of the “welcoming committee.” I love being able to serve God in this way and connect with so many amazing women. Hannah has become such a big part of my life.
We meet on Thursday mornings and I would love to invite you to come. Bring a friend, or come alone – I promise there is a space for you here. Walking into a new place can be intimidating, but I will – literally – meet you at the door!
Hannah: Women Connecting
Meets First & Third Thursdays at 9:30 a.m. at Eastminster Church
1958 N. Webb Rd., Wichita, KS 67206
2022/23 Meeting Dates:
September 29
October 6 & 20
November 3 & 17
December 1
January 5 & 19
February 2 & 16
March 2 & 23
April 13 & 27
May 4
Hannah: Women Connecting is a group for the women of Wichita that meets at Eastminster Church. Hannah is a place for everyone – no matter your stage of life. You are welcome here, and we can’t wait to meet you!
