Cougars for Christ may be one of Coronado’s newest clubs this year, but it is growing fast. With new members joining every week, the club is working tirelessly to keep it running smoothly.

Shawna Howard,11, is in charge of the club, and was inspired to start it by her love for her religion. She wanted to teach others how to love and embrace their religion in a comfortable group atmosphere. “Sometimes, people realize that this takes a lot of commitment.It’s just giving everything you have towards God, they don’t really want to do that, and they walk away from it,” Howard said.

Cougars for Christ is meant to help students find their place in their religion and get on the path of God. It encourages them to connect with God in order to determine where they stand with him. Ada Cruz, 11, enjoys the club and how she has connected with the other members. “I like that the group is very open and non-judgmental. At the end of the day, Cougars for Christ just wants to help better our relationship with Christ. There is no guilt or shame of your sins that comes with being a part of this club, just love. It really reflects God’s thoughts towards the world.”

The club is currently reading a book that will help its members understand their current position with God. The book, Not a Fan, by Kyle Idleman, allows its readers to discover deep truths about their place in their religion and what they can do to better their experiences in that place.”We are learning how to determine whether you are a fan or a follower of God and there is a difference and we’re trying to figure out where everybody’s at in their relationship with God.” Howard explained.

In addition, the club is planning several trash clean ups throughout the year during lunch and after school. They strive to not only find their path, but help to their community . They are always open to new members and feel it is part of their service to the community.

With the goals of the club comes goals for its members. “God is for everyone and so is Cougars for Christ, I would love to see more students take the initiative and advantage of joining this club and the great leaders we have; that would be really awesome. I hope to build others up, share my faith and source of love and confidence with Coronado, and most importantly, inspire others through kindness and good works,” Cruz stated.

Cougars for Christ meets every Wednesday morning from 7:30-8:30 in room 251. Breakfast is provided, which is typically an assortment of donuts,coffee, orange juice, and other foods, but only those who plan to stay for the entire meeting are welcome to it. Everyone is welcome,Christian or not, but they must be respectful to the other members of the club. If a student just wants to learn and contribute, they do not need to be or become Christian. For more information, you can talk to Shawna Howard or contact her using the information below. New members are always accepted and appreciated; it is an opportunity for those who are Christian to connect with their religion while simultaneously helping their community.

Shawna Howard- [email protected]