By: Gwendolyn Loney
On a soccer field in the middle of Southern Adventist University’s campus, a group of
guys gather each week for more than just a game. Through one LifeGroup, soccer has become a
place where competition, community and conversations about faith create an environment for
students to grow both spiritually and physically.
For LifeGroup leader Jonathan Wolff, the experience has transformed his own faith
journey just as much as it has impacted those who attend. Leading weekly worship has
challenged him to practice what he teaches and become the example he hopes others will follow.
“LifeGroup has positively influenced my relationship with God because I am constantly
having to be a spiritual leader,” he said. “When you teach, you have to practice what you teach.
It gives you more motivation to do right, follow God and be a good example.”
Wolff continued to talk about the balance he had to strike between focusing on worship
and activity. While soccer attracts students from a variety of different spiritual backgrounds,
each gathering includes a short worship message, discussion and prayer.
This approach creates space for students who might be more comfortable meeting new
people while having a shared love for an activity with those around them. It also gives Wolff the
chance to introduce them to meaningful conversations about faith.
“My intention was to create a group of guys that fear the Lord and at the same time do
something we can enjoy together,” he said. “The activity draws many people in, but even a ten-minute devotional can impact someone who needs Jesus.”
Throughout the semester, Wolff watched the group evolve. What began as casual
conversations became open, vulnerable discussions about faith, personal struggles and spiritual
growth. Wolff found that some of the most meaningful conversations happened when he created
space for everyone to speak.
Those experiences have changed the way he plans to lead in the future. Wolff said he
hopes to incorporate more small-group discussions and opportunities for students to pray in
groups of two to three.
“Seeing that other people are thinking and sharing about spiritual things can change how
other people share,” he said. Creating that personal connection is what allows the group to come
together as one.
Leading also stretched Wolff personally. Once hesitant to lead peers his own age, he now
sees leadership as one of the biggest blessings LifeGroups has given him.
“LifeGroups taught me how to be a better leader. Now I have more courage and more
confidence leading people my own age.”
Looking back, Wolff describes LifeGroups as one of the highlights of his year at
Southern.
“If you’re considering joining or leading a LifeGroup, do it 100%,” he said. “You can
grow in community and grow spiritually, which are two essential parts of life. It’s just a
blessing!”