The B.R.I.D.G.E. is a Bible study class within the NEXT Ministry to help college students, young professionals, and working young adults navigate life through biblical truth while discovering community, purpose, and opportunities to serve.
Let's breakdown B.R.I.D.G.E. Together!
Find Your Place in Ministry!
Whether you are gifted in music, dance, media or simply just always willing to be a helping hand to others, there is a place for you within the Kingdom of God! Figure out where you belong so we can further spread the gospel together!
"Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit" 1 Corinthians 12:4
Build Healthy Connections!
Join The B.R.I.D.G.E. to help you find YOUR people. It's important to have likeminded and Christ centered people around you for times that you might need them. This walk was not meant to be done alone.
"Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpaneth the countenance of his friend." Proverbs 27: 17
Know Who You Are & Whose You Are
It is easy to let the world tell you who are and to place you into boxes, but God didn't do that. Learn your identity in Christ and walk boldly in who God called you to be.
"But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvelous light." 1 Peter 2:9
Growing Deeper
Walking with Christ is more than Sunday morning services and daily devotionals. It is a deep understanding and reverence for who God is and what he has done. Challenge yourself to understand God in a deeper way than you have before.
"Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen." Matthew 28:19-20
Thriving In Every Season
Growth does not always mean more money or material things, but sometimes the way in which you handle things. Discover how to ensure your continuous growth in every season life could possibly throw at you.
"But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well" Matthew 6:33
Make an Impact
Lastly, share your faith with others! God is too good and has done too much for us to keep it to ourselves. Share your testimonies so that others might come to know Jesus the way that we do.
“Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven” Matthew 5:16
Meet the NEXT Leaders:
Different Voices. One Mission. One Word.
Minister Rena Harrell is a proud farmer, small business owner, and community leader dedicated to the advancement of rural communities and agriculture in Louisiana. Since 2006, she and her husband have operated their own business with a commitment to service, resilience, and community support. Over the years, she has combined her experience as a farmer and businesswoman with her passion for helping others, creating pathways for growth and opportunity for small farmers and rural families. As both a farmer and a leader, her mission is clear: to uplift and inspire others by showing what is possible when they work together, share knowledge, and invest in the future of their communities.
Minister Mathew R. Wilson III is a 20+ year member of the Zion Hill Church Family. He currently serves on the church staff as Musical Director and is a part of the Ministers Ministry at the church. Additionally, he has served as a VBS teacher and is the current leader of the Zion Hill Youth Choir and TAG Team. Minister Mat is married to Sister Malarie Wilson, and they are the parents of 3 children. Minister Mat is committed to equipping believers with practical biblical knowledge that will strengthen their souls and encourage them to reach new levels in their relationship with God and others.
Mrs. Sharlana (Hunter) Bates is a proud native of Alexandria, Louisiana. She is a retired Federal Technician and disabled veteran who honorably served for 13 years in the United States Armed Forces. She has also dedicated her time to volunteering as a youth leader and educator within her community. Mrs. Bates is the devoted wife of Mr. Kirkland Bates Sr. Together, they have been married for 23 years and are the proud parents of seven children. Above all, Mrs. Bates is a God-fearing believer who strives to live by the principle of pursuing a relationship with God over religion. Her life is marked by faith, service, dedication to family, and a commitment to helping others.
Minister Terrence Williams was introduced to Christ by his mother at an early age and he grew up participating in many church activities. These formative experiences played a significant role in shaping his spiritual foundation and personal calling. Minister T is deeply committed to the principles of servant leadership and has devoted his life to uplifting others through both ministry and professional service. For more than 14 years, he has been a dedicated member of the Rapides Parish School District. He currently holds the position of Director of Child Welfare & Attendance. Minister T is also the Worship Leader at Zion Hill Church in Pineville, LA and serves with great passion. Alongside his wife, Tanya, he is the co-founder of TWill Ministries, LLC, a dynamic and multifaceted ministry that impacts lives both locally and globally. He and Tanya are proud parents of two daughters and remain committed to their shared mission of faith, family, and service.
Shirley Cole Williams is a devoted mother, grandmother, educator, and servant of God whose life reflects a deep commitment to faith, family, and community. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Business Education from Southern University and A&M College in 1978, and later pursued Special Education Certification and Graduate Studies at Northwesterrn State University in 1985. Shirley has dedicated 44 years of faithful service as a classroom teacher in the Rapides Parish School System. A faithful and active member of Zion Hill Family Church, Shirley serves as President of the Sanctuary Choir, one of the Daily Bread Devotional teachers for the Seniors Having Fun Ministry, and an Adult Women's Church School teacher. She answered the call to ministry and was licensed to minister in January 2007. Shirley draws strength and inspiration from her favorite scripture, Psalm 24, and is deeply moved by the timeless hymn, "There Is a Fountain Filled with Blood."
Destin Harris is a firefighter and investor from Louisiana who is passionate about serving others, building wealth, and exploring new places through travel. Guided by faith, Destin values family above all and considers having a blessed, loving family to be life's greatest achievement. He strive to live with integrity, purpose, and grratitude every day.