Life2Life – A Personal Perspective

Written by a Woodmen Life2Life Mentor

It’s a warm, sunny day with a slight breeze. I’m sitting with my friend outside a coffee shop. She has an unpronounceable drink topped with whipped cream and chocolate syrup swirls; I’ve stuck with an iced latte. We’re here for Life2Life. We’ve met many times before, so we know what to expect. We chat for a few minutes about what’s going on in our lives. We’re both reading through the Psalms in a daily devotional, and sometimes we discuss a Psalm, a scripture, or a recent teaching. Over the weeks and months of our twice-monthly meetings, she’s come to trust me with the burdens she’s carrying—and we talk about those.

I’m a mentor in the Life2Life ministry. Life2Life is an intentional relationship that connects two women who desire to grow in their relationship with Christ, walking alongside one another with the goal of presenting both women mature in Christ. The key verse for this ministry is Colossians 1:28: “Him we proclaim, warning everyone and teaching everyone with all wisdom, that we may present everyone mature in Christ.”

I’m an older woman who has walked with Jesus for many years. Through seasons of joy and heartache—marriage, lean times, raising children, career challenges, grieving loved ones—I’ve learned to trust Jesus and His Word. Even though I was drawn to this ministry, I initially worried I didn’t have the qualifications. But the expectations are simple: meet twice a month, be transparent, and keep conversations confidential. You could call it a ministry of presence—just showing up consistently.

As we talk together, I ask questions, I listen, I encourage, and I pray. Listening is such a gift—it doesn’t require special skill, but it allows me to truly focus on another person. I get to rejoice with her and share in her sorrows. I’m not there to fix anything. I get to watch God work in her life and grow in appreciation for who she is—her courage, her faith, and her desire to trust God in every decision.

And something unexpected has happened along the way: Life2Life has also drawn me closer to Jesus. It challenges me to examine my own life and grow in areas I may have overlooked. I’m growing in the joy I find in prayer, in caring for others, and in learning to listen first and talk about myself a little less.

Life2Life Through a Mentee’s Eyes

“I joined Life2Life in search of meaningful connection and friendship with other women of faith. I was navigating my own personal challenges and deeply desired to strengthen my relationship with Jesus. This ministry has given me space to nurture areas of my life that felt neglected.

My mentor and I meet twice a month at a local coffee shop, sharing what we’re learning and experiencing. She listens with patience and grace, offers encouragement, and faithfully supports me in prayer. Her presence has been such a blessing.

Walking in faith is a daily journey—and Life2Life has given me a space to grow, be heard, and deepen my walk with Christ.”

Kristin’s Story

When I moved 1,000 miles away to attend college, I didn’t realize how much I’d need community—or how God would provide it in unexpected ways.

That summer, I worked at a camp and felt completely overwhelmed. A young woman who had been a counselor for a few years offered to show me the ropes. She became my go-to person when the kids wouldn’t listen, wouldn’t sleep, or when I felt like I wasn’t getting through. What started as practical help turned into something much deeper. We began reading the Bible together, memorizing scripture, and encouraging one another in our faith.

When camp ended, she asked if I wanted to keep meeting—and we did, for two more years. That experience taught me something powerful: you don’t have to have it all together to mentor someone. She didn’t pretend to be perfect. She just showed up—sharing her joys, her struggles, and what she was learning. Her honesty helped me grow the most.

Since then, I’ve intentionally sought out mentors during every season—marriage, parenting, job transitions, caring for aging parents. And just as importantly, I’ve looked for ways to be that kind of support to others. Whether I’m encouraging a young mom, walking with a friend through a new job, or supporting someone early in their marriage, I’ve seen the power of walking together.

Most of the time, I don’t have all the answers. But I’ve learned that presence matters more than perfection. It’s a gift to be able to say, “You’re not alone. Others have been here. And God is with us through it all.”

If you’re reading this and feel a little tug—maybe you’ve been mentored, or maybe you’ve never had that kind of relationship but long for one—this is your invitation.

We’re continuing our 1:1 Life2Life ministry at Woodmen Heights, and we’re looking for women who are willing to walk alongside someone just a step or two behind them. You don’t need to be an expert. We’ll train and equip you—and we’ll be walking with you every step of the way.

Questions? Reach out to Kristin Hankins or Holly Ashton anytime. Each campus has its own Life2Life mentors-of-mentors, and we’d love to connect you!

- Woodmen Life2Life Mentor