OUR STORY
Awaken Oaks was born out of a deep yearning for a community that embodies the restorative power of the Gospel that unveils our true identity in Christ as agape love. Our journey began in the simple, sacred moments of gathering together as a living community connecting, redefining, deconstructing old thoughts, reconstructing in alignment with truth and worshipping the Lord together in Spirit and in Truth.
We discovered that true communion is found in our universal union in Christ. We are all included, some are just not fully awake. We aren't a part of the mainstream "religious christianity" scene, but rather reclaiming what being a christian really means. Our living walk with the Father, Son, Holy Spirit, and with each other looks like family. Its relational, raw, intimate, real, and it should always reflect agape love (others focused self giving- the cross).
Rooted in the belief that our lifestyles should reflect our inner transformation, we embrace our digital and physical spaces as acts of spiritual stewardship. We saw a need for a platform that shares deep theological insights and carries a message of Agape love while honoring the divine life we have been given. This vlog and blog serve as a creative way for the leadership of Awaken Oaks to impart wisdom and provide resources for spiritual maturity. Facilitating gatherings, producing online teachings, ministering to the body, and sharing the gospel to all remains our primary heartbeat.
Matthew 10:7-8, "As you go proclaim this message: 'the kingdom of heaven has come near.' Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse those who have leprosy, drive out demons. Freely you have received; freely give."
Our leading facilitators are Britt and Jared DeRidder, natives of Hendersonville, North Carolina. They have a heart to see the restoration of all things and all humanity awaken to their true identity in Christ. This really is good news! They function as relational leaders and their heart for discipleship is to teach others to intimately follow the One and walk aware of the One in whom we all live and move and have our being in.
They have many years experience worship leading, counseling, teaching, pastoring, and walking with people as brother and sister in Christ. Britt is currently studying grace based theology at Grace Global Seminary online and is looking forward to writing books and producing podcasts that radically push religious buttons on inferior mindsets.
They enjoy CrossFit, hiking, biking, and spending quality time with their family.
Today, Awaken Oaks is an online and local ministry; it’s a Christ-centered gathering of the Church. We continue to foster spaces where identity is awakened, spirits are edified, and the rhythm of life is slowed down to match the gentle pace of grace through our vlogs, blogs, and community meetings.
Presence & Connection
Deepening our trinitarian union through digital fellowship, rhythmic gatherings, and restorative teaching online.
Faithful Stewardship
Using our voices and platforms to foster growth of the spirit and honor the divine life we inhabit together.
Our Mission
To awaken hearts and nurture a Christ-centered community through digital ministry and the restorative power of Agape love.
Agape Love in Action
Manifesting our true identity through unconditional love, kind advocacy, and culture-shifting vlogs.
Circle Life
Embracing the Perichoresis dance of the trinity in which we are all included, all ages, all nationalities, edifying and encouraging one another in our shared walk.
Our Commitment
Sound Teachings
Honoring the scripture that transforms our lives, and the Word who is Jesus Christ, we commit to sharing grace-based theology and insights that reflect the restorative love of Christ and dignity for all humanity.
Digital Learning
Stewarding our online spaces through the use of uplifting and sometimes challenging content that provoke mind renewal, to the awakening of your union in the trinity through Jesus our Lord. No more religion, just relationship.
Generosity
Rooted in Agape love, we dedicate ourselves to serving the Church and local communities through generous giving of our lives and time and a commitment to restorative leadership.