A Coffee Break Testimony: Late to the Party

I spoke in early March at a Mission Emphasis Service in Demotte, Indiana. The combined service started with a powerful Coffee Break testimony. Erin grew up in a Jehovah’s Witness family with a single mom, multiple stepdads, food stamps and lots of moving. Eventually, she met and married a wonderful man who introduced her to Jesus and the church. She was baptized and made a profession of faith, but still felt as if she was “late to the party.”

Being late to a party can make the church or a bible study feel intimidating. Transitioning into an environment where people have grown up with the things you are now just learning can make a person feel uncomfortable.

Erin did not learn Bible stories or memorize verses as a child. She had a lot to learn, but where could she start? A friend suggested Coffee Break. She explained, “Coffee Break goes through the books of the Bible, no funny business!”

People like Erin meet Jesus through Coffee Break. Members without prior experience, or those who, like Erin, do not feel up to speed with their faith can attend Coffee Break and experience Bible study in a different way. They are able to discover for themselves what the Bible says with the guidance of small group leaders. Maybe they find new people to listen and offer them support, as well as a cup of coffee or good food.

Erin summarized her experience: “I had no idea the impact of Coffee Break would have on my life. Not only has it given me Biblical confidence to continue on with my faith, but I have met so many remarkable women along the way.”

After her testimony, I could have gone home. She did my job for me! But, I stayed and asked the congregation a question. Why do people meet Jesus in Coffee Break? What’s going on in Coffee Break that changes lives? What do you think? What are the reasons people meet Jesus in Coffee Break?