What does it look like to share the love of Jesus with our neighbors right here in Nashville? Sometimes it looks like helping someone practice English, sitting alongside a woman as she learns a new skill, or simply taking the time to listen and build a friendship.

One of Fellowship’s local ministry partners, Servant Group International (SGI), creates opportunities to do just that. SGI serves refugee and immigrant families in Nashville through programs that provide practical support, build community, and create opportunities for meaningful relationships.

I recently had the opportunity to spend time with SGI through their women’s English classes and Sew For Hope program. What stood out to me most was how these programs create space for women to feel welcomed, encouraged, and loved.

Building Relationships Through English Classes

SGI offers English classes for women in the community, along with childcare for mothers who need it. These classes help women develop language skills that can make everyday life easier, whether that means communicating with a doctor, navigating a new situation, or simply feeling more comfortable having conversations.

But these classes offer more than an opportunity to learn English. They also create a place where women can build friendships, feel supported, and experience the love of Christ through the people who show up to serve them.

During my time in the classrooms, I was encouraged by the conversations and relationships that were taking place. I was reminded that sharing the love of Jesus does not always begin with a big conversation or a perfectly planned moment. Sometimes it begins by learning someone’s name, taking an interest in their life, and consistently showing up.

Sew For Hope: More Than Sewing

I also spent time with SGI’s Sew For Hope program, which equips women with sewing skills that can create opportunities for employment while also providing a place for friendship and community.

One of my favorite parts of visiting the sewing class was seeing how much life was happening around the sewing machines. There was music playing, women sharing stories, and conversations about their families and everyday lives. The class began with a short devotional and a time of prayer, creating an opportunity to share encouragement and the hope found in Jesus.

What stood out to me was that the women were not simply coming to learn a skill. They were also entering a space where relationships could grow and where volunteers and staff had opportunities to love and encourage them.

I had the chance to help prepare materials for an upcoming class, and it reminded me that even the simplest acts of service matter. Cutting fabric, helping someone understand instructions, or assisting a teacher may seem like small things, but each helps create an environment where women can feel like they matter.

Showing the Love of Jesus in Everyday Moments

Something I appreciated about SGI was seeing how naturally ministry can happen through ordinary relationships.

We sometimes think that sharing Jesus requires having all the right words or knowing exactly what to say. But there is also something powerful about being present, listening, showing kindness, and taking a genuine interest in someone’s life.

These women are not simply people receiving a service. They are neighbors, mothers, friends, and individuals made in the image of God. Through SGI, volunteers have the opportunity to get to know them, walk alongside them, and demonstrate the love of Christ in tangible ways.

As I spent time there, I was reminded of Jesus’ call to love our neighbors. We have an opportunity to live that out right here in Nashville, not only by meeting practical needs but also by building relationships that reflect His love.

How You Can Serve

One of the things I love about SGI is that there are different ways to get involved. You do not have to speak another language or have a particular background to begin serving.

There are opportunities to help with women’s English classes, assist with childcare, support the Sew For Hope program, and help prepare materials and supplies. Whether you enjoy teaching, sewing, working behind the scenes, or simply getting to know people, there may be a place for you to serve.

And while these opportunities may seem simple, they can have a meaningful impact. A conversation can become a friendship. A classroom can become a place of belonging. A small act of kindness can become an opportunity for someone to experience the love of Jesus.

I am grateful that our church partners with SGI and that we have the opportunity to be part of what God is doing through this ministry.

If you have been looking for a way to serve our local community, I encourage you to learn more about Servant Group International and the opportunities to volunteer.

You do not have to travel across the world to love people from around the world. Sometimes you just have to show up for the neighbors God has placed right in front of you.