For the first time, women of Oxford will be able to partake in the annual IF:Gathering, a two-day multi-denominational Christian conference that features teachings, worship and conversation about Christian living.
Jennie Allen, founder of IF:Gathering, established the organization in 2014. The event has now turned into an annual two-day gathering held in Austin, Texas and simulcast internationally. This year, the conference will be brought to Oxford on Feb. 5 and 6 at The Orchard.
Molly Mogridge, originally from Chicago, relocated with her husband to Oxford 12 years ago. She recently helped bring the event to Oxford.
“Last year I had the opportunity to attend the IF:Gathering live in Austin, Texas,” Mogridge said. “At the live event, I felt God ask me to host a local IF:Gathering in Oxford and thus IF:Oxford was born.”
Today there are over 2,000 gatherings held around the world.
Mogridge said IF:Gathering’s mission is to gather, equip and unleash women from various denominations, cultures and generations to live the life they feel called to live.
Throughout the two-day event, women will view the live stream content of the gathering in Austin as well as interacting through teachings and stories.
“We will have live worship and small groups in order to facilitate deeper conversations and relationships among the women gathered,” Mogridge said.
Mogridge said it was hard for her to focus on her relationship with God during her college years.
“However, I now see college students really digging into their faith community, volunteering around Oxford and finding a lot of support to live a more God-centered life on campus,” Mogridge said. “I am so encouraged!”
Sarah Ward, a volunteer leader with the women’s ministry at The Orchard, said she is excited about what this event will do for the women of Oxford.
“We think the best thing that a college student can be exposed to in Oxford is another woman who has walked with Christ through a few more seasons and who is willing to make room in her life for them,” Ward said.
Brittney McCoy, a sophomore marketing and corporate relations major and attendee of The Orchard, said balancing life as a college student is difficult at times.
Women are encouraged stay in touch after the annual gathering through other IF offerings including a daily bible study, monthly dinner and a day of prayer.
Registration for the event costs $25, which covers all participants’ printed supplies, snacks and drinks. Scholarships are available and all extra money will be given back to IF. Women may register up until the doors open on Friday.
