Creating The FOLD

Diane Browne & Tracy Frazier
Co-Founders of The FOLD

    
     Whenever I am asked how The FOLD came about a smile stretches across my face. The story of how God set hearts on fire in our church and granted a clear vision is a treasure I am delighted to share.

     Two years ago our church began a painful transition of leadership. Women who shared church together for decades were struggling and many desired to connect off campus.

    One Saturday I got a call from Diane, a lady in our church. Diane invited me to attend a church service in Los Angeles to hear her favorite worship leader. I knew God was asking me to join Diane...but He did not tell me why. Twelve hours later we settled into her car. I was surrendered to what I considered a call and God adventure. What came from that church visit was a memorable worship experience and a vision of sisterhood in the our church.

     My mind began whirling with pictures of women sitting around tables, laughing and engaged in sharing hearts. The sense of being known in the body hung like a banner above them; "Come to know and be known". By the end of the worship service, I knew this experience was God's way of calling me to a new ministry. One where women of all ages would bond and build relationships in a fun and inspiring environment. 

     When God births a plan the air is charged! Soon a plan was in motion to begin a new ministry. The FOLD's casual social gatherings are held in the evening and are not a bible study, but rather structured fellowship. Our gatherings are centered on devotionals which lead to themed Q & A discussions: women share their stories, their character, their hearts as led by the Spirit. Small talk, God talk and a hearty dose of inspiration is what The FOLD offers, sisterhood is what the ministry is all about.
  
     By the end of the day Diane and I, two women who barely knew each other, were laughing like sisters. Rejoicing over the ways God brings about His will in our lives, we knew our adventure was a divine appointment. God brought us together "for such a time as this" (Esther 4:14). A ministry meant to build friendships began by building a friendship. How lovely are the ways of God!

   Reading chapter 21 in John served as timely direction. Christ was burdening my heart for His sheep. Thus, came the inspiration for the decor' and name of this ministry; The FOLD:Fellowship Opportunity for Ladies Discipleship.  

  Today as I witness the ladies gathering in The FOLD, laughing and sharing hearts across tables and building relationships, I feel the Holy Spirit in our midst. God is awesome and faithful!

Tracy Frazier
Director/Founder of The FOLD : Fellowship Opportunity for Ladies Discipleship