Christine Painter’s dedication to women’s ministry has cultivated a thriving sisterhood at Living Hope, Commerce City, Colo. “I have always felt God tugging me towards supporting women,” says Painter. Driven by her own struggles, including divorce and single motherhood, she sought to create a space for women to connect with Jesus and each other.

With the support of her pastor, Painter initiated a Bible study group, filling a need in her congregation that had previously been unmet—a group of Christian women growing in the Word together while supporting each other in life’s joys and challenges. After reaching out to her local Lutheran high school and other area congregations, she found other women craving the same Christian connection she needed.

While the group started small, it has expanded to 36 participants, drawing women from various backgrounds and congregations. The group’s success stems from shared responsibilities, including providing refreshments, tissues, and prayer support, fostering a sense of community. Word-of-mouth invitations have further contributed to its growth.

“It’s not about ‘what’ we’re studying or what book we’re reading—but the community of these women,” says Painter. “We’re connecting women first to Jesus and also to others.”

To ensure accessibility, Painter implemented a hybrid format for the latest bimonthly Bible study, offering both in-person and Zoom sessions. This inclusive approach accommodates women facing geographical or time constraints. Sunday afternoons are spent together virtually with those who are not able to attend in person. While Painter leads this group of women from her home, her family works at church to set up the in-person experience. Her teenage children serve the group by providing childcare as well. Painter finishes up the Zoom study and walks straight into another group of women ready to grow together over open Bibles.

“I love the fellowship with my sisters in Christ,” says Painter. “Seeing how much this blesses them motivates me to continue leading. This has become a safe place to open their hearts, share their stories, their struggles, and build each other up.”

One participant shares, “This Bible study has been an answer to my heart’s longing. Christine integrates crafts, food, and fellowship into our evenings, making our time in God’s Word even more meaningful. I leave feeling refreshed and inspired by the honesty and openness of the women around me. My prayer is that this group will continue to bless many of us for years to come!”

The Zoom option has also been a blessing. A virtual Bible study member says, “Moving to Seattle for my daughter’s college has been challenging. Having this Bible study and connecting to other Christian women every other week over Zoom means the world to me.”

The group currently is planning a community spring retreat, an idea that has grown out of its regular gatherings.

Through dedicated leadership, a welcoming atmosphere, and a commitment to meeting women’s needs, Living Hope has created a vibrant ministry that is making a positive difference in the lives of many.

Author: Alycia Cameron
Volume 112, Number 04
Issue: April 2025