Orienting With the Word Storyteller - Kristin Jackson | Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary

Pastor Kristen Jackson shares her experience leading a Bible study titled "Orienting With the Word" with a diverse group of teenagers and young women from East Africa during the summer. The participants came from various countries in the region, creating a unique linguistic environment where some were comfortable speaking English while others preferred Kinyarwanda or Swahili. To bridge this gap, Jackson worked alongside her trilingual colleague Alexis, who facilitated the sessions by translating between the three languages simultaneously. This approach allowed the group to read scriptures multiple times in different tongues and act out the stories together, ensuring that everyone could fully engage with the text despite the language barriers. The study focused specifically on reading through the Gospel of Mark, paying close attention to passages where women interact with Jesus in various ways. The process involved not only reading and discussing these biblical narratives but also engaging in creative art projects to deepen their understanding. One particular week centered on the story of the woman who was bleeding and was healed by Jesus' touch. During this session, Jackson provided materials such as rocks and yarn for the participants to create art that reflected the themes they were studying, turning the abstract concepts of the scripture into tangible expressions. A poignant moment occurred when one of the girls used her rock and paint pen in an angry, stabbing motion before wrapping it with colorful yarn. Although she did not verbally explain her actions at the time, Jackson interpreted this artistic process as a powerful visual representation of wounding followed by healing. The girl eventually gave the finished rock to Jackson as a gift, asking her to keep it in her office. This artifact now serves as a constant reminder for Jackson to pray specifically for that teenage girl, highlighting how the study fostered deep personal connections and spiritual reflection among the participants. Ultimately, this Bible study demonstrated how creative and inclusive methods can help diverse groups connect with biblical stories on a profound level. By accommodating different languages and encouraging artistic expression, the group was able to explore themes of suffering and restoration found in the scriptures. The experience underscored the importance of patience and empathy in ministry, as seen in the lasting impact of the girl's gift and the ongoing prayers it inspires. Through these shared activities, the participants not only learned about the women in Mark's Gospel but also built a meaningful community that continues to support one another long after the summer sessions ended.