Fellowship of the Word at Beaver Area High School meets before school at 7 a.m. every Thursday in Mrs. Shugert’s room. The club’s purpose is to provide a place where students of any denomination can hear from weekly speakers and discuss their faith with fellow classmates.

The club originated decades ago as the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) for the high school but has evolved into a combined group of middle school and high schoolers—athletes and non-athletes alike.

Middle school English teacher Mrs. Jodi Shugert is the sponsor for middle school while English teacher Mrs. Melanie Barker is the sponsor for the high school.

So why meet so early? “Every Thursday before school, because we can’t interfere with school you know, and we’re glad the school allows us to [meet as we do],” explained Mrs. Shugert.

Mrs. Shugert explained that the weekly guest speakers are often pastors from around the community who visit but also students, parents, and other staff members have spoken as well. Students are also encouraged to consider leading the discussion.

For example, before Christmas break middle school teacher Mr. Mike Jarovich explained the traditions and customs of Serbian Christmas as a guest speaker.

“So far we’ve had ministers lead, but it’s nondenominational, and we do let students lead, but we just haven’t had that happen yet [this year],” Mrs. Shugert elaborated.

Generally, a meeting starts with the students arriving to donuts from Kretchmar’s (provided by Mrs. Shugert), then a time to share prayer requests to the group, followed by a lesson or presentation from the featured speaker, then finally a prayer circle for the students (participation is voluntary).

Everyone is welcome!