It was late 2019: I had just graduated college a year before, I was working full-time, and I missed the camaraderie I had with my friends from Seton Hall’s Campus Ministry. I was looking for a group of young, like-minded people around my age, who bonded in faith and fellowship. The type of friends I could pray with, discuss life’s joys and challenges, and play card games over some cold ones. Oh, and maybe a bonfire. Bonfires are always a good time.
Then, an SPO missionary I knew from school introduced me to Compass. I attended a Fall retreat in Harvey Cedars, and right away, I knew that I had found what I was looking for.
But life had other plans for me. Covid hit, then I took a job two and a half hours away. Joining a small group just wasn’t feasible at the time. But I stayed in touch with my new Compass friends, and made an effort to at least attend Lord’s Day celebrations on Saturday evenings, and volleyball in the summertime.
This year has been a blessing for me and the guys in my small group helped me navigate some turbulent times
2023 was my first official year in a Compass small group, despite being affiliated with the group since 2019. Compass definitely played a role in my decision to relocate back to this part of the state. Moving away made me crave the type of friendships I had with the people of Compass. This year has been a blessing for me and the guys in my small group helped me navigate some turbulent times. I’m grateful for the opportunities Compass has given me, and I look forward to deepening my relationship with the friends I made here along the way.
-Owen, Compass Member
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