The drive from Roanoke to Reston was particularly beautiful last month. Not only was the Shenandoah Valley spectacular, as always, but the traffic on 81 was, thankfully, lighter than usual. As I trekked northward, I thought back over my Centurions experience.

I was part of the first Centurion class in 2004. I smiled to myself as I remembered my first weekend residency in the spring of 2004. We stayed in this large, maze-like training complex in Northern Virginia. It was part hotel and part conference center. Our class quickly bonded as we shared the experience of continually getting lost like mice in a maze. The conversations around the tables were rich and energizing. I remember meeting Regis, Diane, Maurice, Donald, Joe and many other kindred spirits It was obvious that these people were serious about living out their faith and teaching others how to think Christianly and apply Biblical truth to all of life.

The year long Centurions training is rigorous and involves distance learning and networking. The reading assignments are challenging. Several weekend residencies are included. Those who complete the requirements are commissioned as Centurions and sent out. The network of Centurions grows each year. Centurions stay connected and join regional cohorts after becoming commissioned. The cohort is a geographically based network that enables Centurions to serve one another through encouragement, prayer and resource and idea sharing.

A gathering of the cohort was the reason for my trip to Reston. After enjoying a meal together, Centurions representing four different classes shared about how we were engaging those in the church and in the culture. Several were leading studies. Another was mentoring a former inmate in Christian living. One was teaching young moms how to have a vision for transforming the hearts of their children. Another was focused on deepening the dialogue about Christianity and worldview in America’s newsrooms. Another was leading a Truth project group in her home with her husband. Another was involved in a worldview book project targeted toward parents.

I was struck with the variety of ways people were called to teach others about applying Biblical truth to all of life. The common theme, however, was a passion to serve Christ and make a difference in his kingdom.

I strongly encourage you to apply to the Centurions Program and join the movement. Applications for the 2008 Centurions program are being accepted now.

Comments

[Diane Singer]

Jeff,

Regis just hosted a regional cohort gathering in Chattanooga a couple of weekends ago. As my daughter and I gathered with both members of our 2004 class and the 2006 class, we rejoiced to see how God has opened doors of service that we hadn't imagined going into the program. It truly is a life-altering, and ministry-expanding, experience.

Yes, it's an incredibly busy year -- but it's well worth the effort and whatever activities you'll have to temporarily lay aside to accomplish it.

I encourage all of you reading this to prayerfully consider joining. Your initial reaction will probably be "I don't have the time." MAKE THE TIME! You won't be sorry.