COMMUNITIES

BIC’s COOL is my first small group. At first, I was not sure whether to join – but I thought I’d give it a try. It turns out to be an impactful place in my journey of faith. It’s more than just a weekly gathering but it’s a place to do life and pursue God together. For me, I know God deeper through learning and discussing His word together.

Also, being in the community has transformed the way I see God’s love. During difficult times in my life, my brothers and sisters in Christ always support me through prayers – which I believe is God’s work to sustain and strengthen my faith. It is really a safe place where we can be vulnerable and be who we are, because of the genuine care and love from the people in the community.

I joined COOL Berea at the beginning of 2019 after arriving in Melbourne to continue my study in culinary management. At first, joining COOL was a struggle due to my study and work commitments. However, my COOL members have always been very supportive and along the way, by God’s grace, I am able to join every week.

Being part of Berea has helped me in my spiritual journey with God. I found encouragement through sharing from other member’s lives, how God has shaped them to become who they are now. It inspired me pursuing God more, asking God for wisdom and participating daily forgiveness. Because of this time constraint, reading scripture was very challenging, however, Berea emphasizes reading the scriptures in detail, discusses them in-depth and propels every member to apply it in our daily lives.

Their acceptance enables me to share my burden or life struggles without fear of being judged. Their advice based on Christian values has lightened the stressful adjustment to the new environment in Melbourne. Lastly, their diverse personalities and perspectives have enriched and broaden my way of thinking, have helped me to improve my communication skills, and to appreciate other people’ differences. I can say that this community is not perfect, but worth it.

I joined COOL because I wanted to have more friends in Melbourne and I would’ve never thought that they will become my second family here. The first time I came to COOL, they were all very welcoming, care, and gave me a lot of food. It made me feel extremely comfortable, so I came back the next week, the week after, and until now.

They have become my second family, and they are always there for me in times of need, always encouraging and supporting me. Through COOL, I’ve learned how to pray not only for me but also for others, and I’ve learned the Word of God. Besides, I’ve realised how to love and take care of one another, and I’ve experienced God a lot through COOL. Truly I can see that God is working and showing Himself through my community.