
Leader News

Lofting Leaders Shepherd a Successful Weekend of Learning and Discovery!
Sydney Gass highlights a transformative leadership retreat hosted by St. Luke’s UMC and led by the Lofting Leaders team. Guided by mentors Angie Winn and Brandon Sangster, the youth leaders taught adult participants key pillars of leadership — Mind, Body, Heart, and Spirit — sharing their unique perspectives and inspiring growth for leaders of all ages.

The Art of the Weekend Reset
This playful yet thoughtful article by Nadia Krejcha explores the art of a weekend mental reset, offering practical and creative ways to recharge after a long week. With a mix of humor and sincerity, it reminds readers to prioritize rest, movement, joy, and boundaries—so they can face Monday feeling refreshed and human again.

Finding Comfort In The Discomfort: A College Perspective
Starting at Flagler College, Nadia Krejcha faced a whirlwind of excitement and uncertainty, missing her family and the solace of her church community. As she navigated this new chapter, reconnecting with a high school friend and making her dorm feel like home, Nadia discovered that comfort often emerges from embracing the unfamiliar. Her professor’s take on the "liminal phase" of college — the space between old and new — gave her hope that this period of transition is not just challenging but a vital part of discovering confidence and belonging.

Pine Trees
Sydney Gass reflects on the resilience found in nature, drawing parallels between the steadfastness of pine trees during a hurricane and the way we carry our burdens in life. With a unique perspective as a Floridian, Sydney explores the significance of rooting ourselves in what truly matters, shedding unnecessary worries, and finding strength in connections that often go unseen. Through vivid imagery and personal experience, she encourages readers to look to nature for lessons in resilience and growth.

Tuned Out: The Power of Disconnecting to Reconnect with Yourself
In an era where we're constantly bombarded by social media, work demands, and societal expectations, it’s easy to lose touch with our true selves. Nadia Krejcha explores the profound impact of disconnecting from the noise to reconnect with our inner voice. In this article, she emphasizes the importance of solitude, introspection, and emotional awareness as essential practices for rediscovering our core values and desires. By taking time to tune out and reflect, we can find clarity, peace, and a deeper sense of purpose in our lives.

Slowing Down
In "Slowing Down," Sydney Gass explores the overwhelming sensation of falling through life’s relentless pace. Describing the struggle to keep up with societal demands for speed, Gass reflects on the need to reclaim control and find stability. Through vivid metaphors, the piece urges readers to slow down, breathe, and appreciate the present moment, advocating for a more mindful and balanced approach to life.

You Are Not Alone
In her heartfelt article, Nadia Krejcha opens up about her personal battle with depression and anxiety, shedding light on the hidden struggles that many face. Through a candid exploration of her family's history with mental health, Nadia discovers that her challenges are part of a larger narrative. Her journey to seek therapy, coupled with the unwavering support of her loved ones, becomes a path to healing and self-acceptance. As Nadia embarks on a new chapter in college, she carries with her the strength to advocate for mental health awareness and remind others that they are never truly alone.