CGL recruitment continues

The LU Shepherd office is looking for Community Group Leaders for the 2018-2019 academic year — it is not too late to sign up to be a part of Liberty’s spiritual leadership on the residence halls.

For students who missed the interest meeting on Feb. 8, information and the application can be found on the LU Shepherd page on Liberty’s website. Students can also ask their Resident Shepherds (RS) for more details about the application process.

Emily Woody, the Assistant Director of Resident Shepherds, said the LU Shepherd office is looking for specific traits when approving CGLs.

“They know the Lord, they love the Lord, they’ve been growing, and they can turn around and challenge people in their walk,” Woody said.

There is no strict deadline to sign up, but the LU Shepherd office has set a goal date — March 1, according to Woody.

Community Group Leaders (CGLs) head up community groups, which meet in residence halls on Wednesday nights at 10 p.m., and are comprised of 5-7 students. According to Liberty’s website, CGLs are responsible for praying for and fostering community among the members of their group.

The LU Shepherd office is looking for students who are passionate about their faith and their love for people. A strong reputation, love for God and a servant’s heart are a few of the requirements for a CGL. Good academic standing and willingness to fulfill the time commitment are also required. The complete list of requirements can be found on Liberty’s website.

For those who are thinking about becoming a CGL, Woody recommends getting involved with Campus Community and hall community groups.

“If you haven’t been involved with the hall, start getting involved,” Woody said.

However, Woody encourages interested students to take seriously the commitment that being a CGL requires.

“This is not for people who just want a title,” Woody said.

Time commitments include arriving early before freshmen move in, hosting CFAW and attending Campus Community. CGLs are also required to attend a connect class every week to receive guidance and training. Also, CGLs attend meetings with their respective Resident Shepherds for accountability and discipleship.

CGLs are not in this alone—they are invested in on a weekly basis through the support of their Resident Shepherds and the staff of LU Shepherd.

 

“I’ve seen CGLs that have said this has revolutionized their walk with the Lord,” Woody said.

These skills in discipleship and student development will be with students for a lifetime, according to Woody.

Freshman Jessica Suiter, a fashion merchandizing major who became a CGL this semester, had considered becoming a CGL from the beginning of her college career.

“I really like the idea of being able to be an example to other people,” Suiter said.

Suiter said she brought to the table a heart for girls who are struggling with insecurities, anxiety and depression. She said she began to seriously consider becoming a CGL when her RA suggested she ask God if it was something he had for her.

For Suiter, the idea of becoming a CGL was approached with apprehension, due to her freshman status and lack of experience. Through prayer, Suiter conquered her fears and took the step.

For students who may question their ability to be a CGL, Suiter encourages them to not allow fear of their own inadequacy hold them back from God’s call to leadership.

“You’re not going to be a good enough leader—you’re not ever going to be good enough for anything that you do, because we’re unqualified as humans,” Suiter said. “Anything that we ever accomplish that’s good is from God.”