The Church, A Beacon of Hope

“I love this ministry because when I get asked by a single mom if we can help, I have an amazing community to point her towards.” — Josh Czufin, Life Groups Local Missions Pastor Life.Church (Colorado Springs)

Not Alone Ministries started extremely small—with just one married couple and two single moms. We saw the need for a community of single moms to walk alongside and support each other, and one morning during worship, the next step became clear: "Start a small group.” So we did. Within two months, that little group was full and had a waiting list.

As a married couple, we feared it would look "weird" to lead this group together. We apologized that we weren't single moms ourselves, but it turns out the women who joined us were grateful for two things: 1) a healthy male presence while doing Bible study, and 2) an example of Christian marriage, trying to center on Jesus yet also very real about its imperfections. 

Several years later, that same church's single community has grown into three small groups with over 30 regular attendees. In fact, the church has become a beacon for single moms in our city and is becoming known as a place of refuge and grace. In the past three years, 91 single moms from that single church have reached out to us seeking community.

Some have said, “Church is one of the loneliest places for a single mom.” Not here! Each Sunday, our moms know they aren't just welcome at church; they belong. Many attend a service together and take up one or two rows. Imagine going from a place of loneliness to belonging and community!

In addition, others in the church have rallied around these communities, providing encouragement, meals, babysitting, moving help, handyman work, and a million other expressions of love to ensure every single mom feels seen, loved, and supported.