Hello it’s been a while since the last one. That’s my bad no excuses really for that but expect monthly updates from now on. The first semester at CPP(Cal Poly Pomona) has concluded and we are now preparing to step into the new semester! Here are some highlights from the last couple months!
Fall Retreat
Fall retreat was our first inter-campus event working all together as a staff team. Planning amidst ever-changing COVID regulations proved difficult however ultimately the event was a success! This was a 3 day conference hosted by a local church, Good Stewards Church, using their outdoor space. In past years, we would go to a campsite in the mountains however, due to COVID we had to switch things up. This limited the extent of what we could do but helped us narrow down what was important. Our team leader Gabe, spoke for the three sessions and worship teams led by students from both campuses led us in song. Students volunteered to lead small groups and facilitated conversations after each session. We sprinkled in some Squid Game themed activities and concluded it all with an afternoon at the park to relax.
Personally, this was a pivotal time for me because this event was the first time I felt I was in a role as a staff member and not just a student leader as I have been throughout college. Helping out in bible study or meeting up with students somewhat felt the same as past years however organizing this retreat was new and out of my comfort zone. At the same time it was a joy to see the students start to become closer and more comfortable with one another. Watching this growth made it evident to me that for whatever reason(COVID, isolation, online school) so many students strongly desired community and relationship. A space like this to meet new people and also have intentional time of growing in faith together was welcomed and enjoyed.
Some pictures from the last couple months
How I’m Doing
These past few months have been very transformative and to be frank, difficult. I’ve spoken about this a bit before but I’ve been continually humbled and left wanting to be more or be better. Especially now writing this update, I’m left feeling disappointed in myself and left with the reality that I have poorly stewarded my resources. God has been revealing that despite what I said and what I believed, I did not step into this space of ministry fully trusting God to move. God has been breaking down strongholds of pride in me that thought I had what it took to step into ministry out of my own good character.
Before I continue I want to acknowledge that this is likely not something you’re expecting to hear as someone who supports me in any capacity. As cute as it is, I just felt that giving an update with smiling pictures simply wasn’t a wholistic and accurate representation of how my ministry has been going. I really am sorry and promise I am taking steps so that hopefully next month this update can change even a little bit.
In this season of my life, I have been doubting myself and displeased with myself. It’s been difficult trying to do ministry out of this state. I want to handle these things before pouring into the people around me but grow more frustrated the longer it goes on. I find myself in unproductive slumps avoiding my worries and fears by distracting myself with entertainment and fun.
In light of this, even when I am doubtful, it has been evident that God is still with me. Even when I feel like I’m letting down the people around me I can find solace in his unconditional love for me. He continues to shower me with love that I don’t deserve through the people around me and I can say with confidence he is growing me and continues to hear and answers my prayers.
Lastly please don’t worry too much. Reading this back and seeing it in writing, I feel that I’ve dramatized my situation. I’m doing alright and am surrounded by a loving support group. There have been many joys in my life and I can say with confidence that I can taste and see that He is good. 🙂
Prayer Requests
- For Epic as a whole, that it’s leaders(including me) would continue to stay steadfast and Christ-centered in their vision and goals.
- Specifically for students as they deal with uncertainty of the mode of instruction for school next semester.
- The coming Epic Winter Conference, for physical safety as well as a fruitful time for the students.
- For my heart, that I would be fully reliant on Christ and strive to become just a little bit more like Him day by day.
Dillon Kim Ministry Updates 