Celebrating the Women of Fellows and Beyond

I could write a very lengthy list about everything I love about the Fellows program, but since it is Women’s History month, I wanted to take a moment to celebrate some of the amazing women in the program and in the Redeemer community. Over the  past six months, these women in particular have shaped me, supported me, and most importantly, helped me to see more clearly who Jesus really is. I am grateful to know them, and hope that you all will get the chance to know them, too!

Let’s start with one of our fearless leaders, Madison Miller! Her warmth and intentionality make her incredibly easy to be around. Whether we are chatting over cups of tea or belting Broadway tunes while getting ready in the morning, it is always refreshing to be with her. I love that she can be serious when needed, but also has a witty, sometimes goofy sense of humor (ask her to do an impression of Shakira). Her ability to listen and point others back to their belovedness is a beautiful reflection of Christ.

Next up is Allison McHenry! Allison is one of the most committed people I know. She is devoted to the Lord, and is wise beyond her years. She is also determined to help others and make an impact on the world; we’ve even joked that she should run for president one day. Her friendship is constant, and her spiritual maturity is amazing. She is an excellent addition to any game night, and also has a silly side that is wonderful to witness. I am so grateful to have someone like Allison in my corner, and I couldn’t imagine our group without her.

Mary Bademan is empathetic, curious and imaginative. Her thoughtful questions reveal her desire to grow in faith, and she has an eye for the beauty of everything God has created. Her intelligence is undeniable, and at the same time, she is always willing to learn. We have spent many a car ride to class discussing the most random topics, from childhood memories of playing pretend to our favorite books (she’s a fellow English major). No matter what we are talking about, Mary always has a unique perspective to offer and a sensitivity to the emotions of others. She is a dear friend with a deep reverence for the Lord.

Katelyn Arney is just genuinely fun to be around. Her side comments at our family dinners never fail to make me giggle, and she’s always up for a new adventure, whether it’s skiing or trying a new restaurant or brewery. She is often the first to turn on music in the car for an impromptu jam session, and it’s easy to relax  around her. She is fiercely protective of those she loves (humans and her dog Kyler included), and will speak up for what she knows is right. Her courage and enthusiasm remind me to trust the Lord and enjoy all of the excitement that life has to offer.

Last in our fellows group is Maddie, who can light up a room with her sweetness and bubbly nature. She is compassionate, friendly, and always willing to encourage someone with a kind word. A conversation with Maddie usually lasts longer than I expect; she loves to learn about others and ask questions to get to know them more deeply. She also invites others into her joy, whether she sends you a video that she knows you will love or tells a funny story about her students at Caldwell. She reflects Jesus’s love in her care for others and her ability to see the best in everyone.

My fellows experience wouldn’t be the same without my host mom, Annie Rose Ansley. Somehow, she is able to balance more than I can even imagine all at once: she’s a wonderful mom and foster mom, a talented baker, and a gracious host. Her patience with two energetic girls is really admirable, and she always wants to hear how I am doing and what I am learning about in Fellows. We also share several similar interests, including speaking Spanish and watching the Great British Baking Show. She is quick to share what she is thankful for, even on a hard day, and her love for her family and the Lord is evident. I have learned so much from Annie this year! I’m so grateful to be part of her family’s life.

Finally, we have my wonderful mentor, Kim Burkhalter. She is kind, generous and an amazing partner in prayer. Our weekly meetings always leave me pondering deep questions about my relationship with the Lord, and she has a calm presence that puts me at ease after a long day. I have so enjoyed learning about her years of teaching, her spiritual growth throughout her life, and her children and grandchildren. She is not afraid to ask hard questions, but also does this gently and with a lot of grace. I am so thankful for her words of wisdom and desire to guide and help others.

For the rest of this month, may we all continue to think about the impactful women in our lives and how they have shaped us to become fuller versions of who we are.

With love,

Calley