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Don’t Forget to Remember

Satan uses forgetting as one of his tools to draw us away from God.  In the Bible, God instructed his people to build Standing Stones as a way of remembering his faithfulness.  In a culture where our attention span is getting less and less, we need a tool to help our students to remember .

Faith Journey serves Christian Schools to reach their fullest potential through REMEMBERING, REFLECTING, and EVIDENCE.

What is Faith Journey?

Faith Journey is a web and mobile app that provides students with a secure, digital, and private album that captures moments in the school day that help shape their faith. These ‘standing stones’ come out of faith intersections, such as seeing God’s role in a science activity or finding spiritual themes in a literature lesson.

At any time, students are able to look back and REMEMBER these moments. Students are able to put REFLECTIONS  in their albums. Parents can see first-hand the EVIDENCE of how their child’s faith is being strengthened through your school.

REMEMBERING faith connections

REFLECTING on personal connections

Showing evidence of spiritual connections.

Provides an opportunity for Christian schools to give evidence of how they are fulfilling their Christ-centered mission. It provides a platform for schools to share how they are carrying out their mission with parents, donors, board members, and other constituents. 

Faith Journey is a valuable tool for collecting, organizing, and tracking students’ faith development activities. The examples of faith growth over time and the specific feedback available to administrators provides invaluable evidentiary data for school improvement purposes.

Faith Journey is an excellent tool, which provides evidence of our commitment to equip and nurture students, so they can impact the world for Christ.

In just a short amount of time, our family has been blessed by Faith Journey. My children love when they are able to post new Footprints at school. I’m extremely thankful to have this app which I will be able to see how their faith has grown throughout their time at DCS.

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Connect with us to receive a personal tour of Faith Journey to learn how Faith Journey will impact your school and the faith of your students. Contact Kent at [email protected] or call at 616-328-7808

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Our school encompasses a student’s entire academic journey, from K3 to 12 th grade, so our students have the unique opportunity to grow with us from the very beginning of their education until the end.  The family atmosphere at Faith Academy engages our students academically and enriches them both spiritually and socially.

Faith Academy provides opportunities for all of our students to find their place—whether that be through the arts or technology, on a stage or behind the scenes, on the field or in the engineering workshop, serving others or leading their peers, there is truly something for everyone.

Not only do we offer honors, AP, and dual enrollment classes through the University of Alabama, our graduation rate is 100%.  Nearly 70% of our students receive scholarship money, and the average ACT score for our college-preparatory students is a 27.

The ultimate mission of Faith Academy is to help our students identify their purpose by learning who they are in Christ, utilizing their God-given talents, and living out their personal callings so that not only do they become successful after they graduate, they also live fulfilled lives.

We offer more than a dozen different sports for both girls and boys at Faith Academy with competition in some areas beginning in the 3 rd grade.  Students at Faith Academy learn more than simply the rules of the game.  Our winning tradition is based upon the principles of teamwork, respect, initiative and honoring God above all else.

Not only do we emphasize academic excellence, but we also focus on spiritual growth.  Our students grow through daily Bible classes, chapel services, mission trips, and opportunities to serve within our own community.  Our staff meets each morning to pray for our students and serves alongside them at home and abroad.

© 2018 Faith Academy All Rights Reserved

8650 Tanner Williams Road Mobile, AL 36608

Phone: 251-633-7267 Fax: 251-633-9133

It is the mission of Faith Academy to offer a quality Christian education in a safe, clean and orderly environment, while assisting and encouraging our students to realize who they are in Christ.

ABOUT FAITH JOURNEYS

Our difference.

Faith Journeys is an independent 501 (c) (3) nonprofit that offers an award-winning, Catholic-based model of accompaniment and mentoring for children and adolescents experiencing parental divorce or separation, while partnering with parents so children's gains may be maximized.

Our curriculum integrates the truths of Catholicism, psychological principles, and the authority of personal experience to help children heal and grow stronger.

OUR MISSION

To facilitate children's healing through psychoeducation, Catholic teachings and partnerships with parents, so children build competencies and deepen their faith, thereby reducing future risks for divorce.  

We have had the privilege of working with a number of Catholic organizations including:

Archdiocese of Denver

Archdiocese of Mobile

Archdiocese of Washington

Archdiocese of Baltimore

Diocese of Orange

Diocese of Charleston

Diocese of Pittsburgh

Diocese of Harrisburg

Knights of Columbus

Pontifical John Paul II Institute for Studies on Marriage and the Family

National Association of Catholic Family Life Ministers (NACFLM)

National Catholic Educational Association (NCEA)

Catholic Divorce Ministry.

We are domiciled in Baltimore, MD  

FAITH JOURNEYS IN THE NEWS

Catholic Review - Archdiocese of Baltimore

OSV Institute Semi-Finalist Announcement

CatholicMom.com

Denver Catholic

Catholic Culture

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• Growing In Faith: Nurturing Our Spiritual Journey
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Growing In Faith: Nurturing Our Spiritual Journey Series

Contributed by antonio manaytay on jun 28, 2024 (message contributor).

Scripture: Matthew 13:3-9

Denomination: Pentecostal

Summary: Growing in faith is a vital aspect of the Christian journey. It involves deepening our trust in God, maturing in our spiritual understanding, and living out our faith in practical ways.

Introduction

Growing in faith is a vital aspect of the Christian journey. It involves deepening our trust in God, maturing in our spiritual understanding, and living out our faith in practical ways. As we navigate life, our faith should continuously evolve and strengthen, enabling us to face challenges with resilience and grace.

In this sermon we explore the concept of growing in faith.

The Foundation of Faith

The foundation of our faith is built on knowing and accepting Jesus Christ as our Savior. Romans 10:9 (NIV) states, "If you declare with your mouth, 'Jesus is Lord,' and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved." This initial step of faith is crucial, but it is just the beginning of our spiritual journey.

Illustration: The Parable of the Sower

In Matthew 13:3-9 , Jesus tells the Parable of the Sower. Seeds that fell on good soil produced a crop, "a hundred, sixty, or thirty times what was sown" ( Matthew 13:8 , NIV). This parable illustrates the importance of having a fertile heart, open to receiving and nurturing God's word. For our faith to grow, we must cultivate our hearts and minds, making them receptive to spiritual nourishment.

Nurturing Faith Through Scripture

One of the primary ways to grow in faith is by immersing ourselves in God's Word.

The scripture emphasizes in 2 Timothy 3:16-17 (NIV), "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work."

Reading and meditating regularly on the Bible strengthens our faith and equips us for life's challenges.

Illustration: Jesus' Temptation in the Wilderness

In Matthew 4:1-11 , Jesus faces temptation in the wilderness. Each time the devil tempted Him, Jesus responded with Scripture, demonstrating His deep knowledge and reliance on God's Word. This example shows us the power of Scripture in fortifying our faith and guiding us through difficult times.

Prayer as a Means of Growth

Prayer is another essential component of growing in faith. It is our direct line of communication with God, allowing us to express our needs, seek guidance, and develop a deeper relationship with Him. Philippians 4:6-7 (NIV) encourages us, "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."

Illustration: Daniel's Prayer Life

Daniel's unwavering faith was nurtured through consistent prayer.

Despite the threat of persecution, he continued to pray three times a day, as was his custom. Daniel 6:10 (NIV) states, "Now when Daniel learned that the decree had been published, he went home to his upstairs room where the windows opened toward Jerusalem. Three times a day he got down on his knees and prayed, giving thanks to his God, just as he had done before."

Daniel's example teaches us the importance of regular, disciplined prayer in growing our faith.

Fellowship and Community

Growing in faith also involves engaging with a community of believers. Hebrews 10:24-25 (NIV) advises, "And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching." Fellowship provides support, encouragement, and accountability, helping us stay strong in our faith.

Illustration: The Early Church

The early Christians demonstrated the power of community in growing faith. Acts 2:42 (NIV) describes their devotion: "They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer." Their commitment to one another and to God helped them grow in faith and spread the gospel effectively.

Living Out Our Faith

Faith is not just a belief; it must be reflected in our actions.

James 2:26 (NIV) asserts, "As the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without deeds is dead." Growing in faith involves living out our beliefs through acts of love, service, and obedience to God's commands.

Illustration: The Good Samaritan

In Luke 10:25-37 , Jesus shares the Parable of the Good Samaritan. The Samaritan's actions exemplified genuine faith in action. He saw a man in need, felt compassion, and took steps to help, despite cultural and social barriers. This parable challenges us to live out our faith through tangible acts of kindness and service to others.

Overcoming Trials with Faith

Trials and challenges are inevitable, but they also provide opportunities for our faith to grow.

James 1:2-4 (NIV) encourages us, "Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything."

Related Media

Scriptures: 2 Timothy 3:16-17 , Acts 2:4 , Acts 2:42 , Daniel 6:10 , Ephesians 3:17-19 , Galatians 5:22-23 , Genesis 50:20 , Hebrews 10:24-25 , James 1:2-4 , James 2:26 , Luke 10:25-37 , Matthew 13:3-9 , Matthew 13:8 , Matthew 4:1-11 , Philippians 4:6-7 , Romans 10:9

Sermon Topics: Faith , Growth , Foundation

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10 Stages In A Faith Journey: Plus Examples

Inside: Faith Journey Plus Examples

Have you ever thought about how our faith is like a journey?

It’s a road with ups and downs, questions, and amazing moments where everything just clicks.

Whether you’re just starting out or have been on this road for a while, there’s always something new to see and learn.

In this article, we’ll dive into the different parts of this faith adventure using the Bible and some easy-to-follow tips.

So, come on in, and let’s chat about this faith journey we’re all on!

10 Stages In A Faith Journey

Here’s a detailed breakdown of 10 stages in a faith journey, complete with Scripture and practical advice for each stage:

• Scripture : “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you.” – Matthew 7:7
• Advice : Stay open-minded. Attend faith-based events, join discussion groups, and ask questions to understand more deeply.
• Scripture : “For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.” – Luke 19:10
• Advice : Embrace this new awareness. Surround yourself with individuals who can guide and nurture your budding faith.
• Scripture : “Like newborn infants, long for the pure spiritual milk, that by it you may grow up into salvation.” – 1 Peter 2:2
• Advice : Dive into Scripture. Attend Bible studies, engage in prayer, and seek mentorship from seasoned believers.
• Scripture : “I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.” – Romans 12:1
• Advice : Make a conscious decision to commit to your faith . This might mean being baptized or taking another step of public commitment.
• Scripture : “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” – John 16:33
• Advice : Seek support through community and prayer. Remember, every believer faces challenges. They can strengthen and refine your faith.
• Scripture : “But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” – 2 Peter 3:18
• Advice : Regularly partake in spiritual disciplines like fasting , deep prayer, and meditative reading of the Scriptures.
• Scripture : “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” – 1 Peter 4:10
• Advice : Find ways to serve in your community or church. Share your testimony and faith journey with others.
• Scripture : “The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” – Deuteronomy 31:8
• Advice : Journal or reflect on the ways you’ve seen God’s hand in your life, celebrating His faithfulness in big and small ways.
• Scripture : “And this is the testimony: God has given us eternal life, and this life is in His Son.” – 1 John 5:11
• Advice : Foster a heavenly perspective, knowing that this earthly life is temporary and a glorious eternity awaits.
• Continuous Renewal and Transformation :
• Scripture : “Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day.” – 2 Corinthians 4:16
• Advice : Continually seek personal revival. Attend retreats, engage in spiritual self-assessments, study God’s word daily and always aim to draw closer to God.

I hope this list provides a helpful framework for understanding the stages in a faith journey from a Biblical perspective!

May it inspire and guide many on their personal journeys with the Lord.

Examples Of A Faith Journey

Here are some examples of faith journeys:

• The parable of the Prodigal Son in Luke 15:11-32 is a poignant example of a faith journey. A young man leaves home, squanders his inheritance, and hits rock bottom. However, he comes to a realization of his mistakes and decides to return to his father. His father, representing God’s unending mercy, welcomes him with open arms. This journey from rebellion to redemption underscores the grace and forgiveness that await those who turn back to God.
• Moses’ life is filled with twists and turns. Born a Hebrew but raised as an Egyptian prince, he flees Egypt after killing a man. In exile, God appears to him in a burning bush and tasks him with leading the Israelites to freedom. Through challenges like confronting Pharaoh and parting the Red Sea, Moses grows in his faith and dependence on God.
• Mary Magdalene, mentioned in the Gospels, is a shining example of a transformative faith journey. Once plagued by seven demons, Jesus heals her. From that moment, she becomes one of His most devoted followers, even being the first to witness and proclaim His resurrection.
• Saul, later known as Paul, starts as a fierce persecutor of early Christians . However, on the road to Damascus, he has a life-changing encounter with the risen Christ. This results in a complete turnaround, and he becomes one of Christianity’s most influential apostles, spreading the Gospel far and wide.
• Imagine someone today who grew up in a Christian household but drifted away during their teenage years, influenced by peers or personal doubts. Later in life, a significant event or realization brings them to a Christian counselor. Through counseling sessions, reading Scripture, and joining a supportive community, they rekindle their relationship with God and commit their life to serving Him.
• Consider a person with no prior knowledge of Christianity. Perhaps a friend invites them to church, or they stumble upon a Bible in a hotel room. Curious, they begin exploring, attending Bible studies, and asking questions. Over time, the teachings resonate with them, leading to a deep, personal relationship with Jesus .

Each of these journeys highlights the diverse paths people can take in their relationship with God.

From Biblical figures to everyday individuals, the common thread is God’s unwavering love and grace, guiding each person closer to Him.

I hope these Faith Journey examples inspire and provide insight into the varied landscapes of faith journeys!

How To Write A Faith Journey

Writing about your faith journey is a deeply personal endeavor, but it can be incredibly rewarding.

Sharing your experiences can inspire others and offer insights into the unique ways God works in individual lives.

Let’s break down how to approach this:

• Before you even pick up a pen, spend some time in prayer. Ask God for clarity, wisdom, and discernment as you recount your journey.
• Think about key moments in your life that have shaped your faith. This could be childhood memories, a challenging period, or an unexpected blessing.
• Start by describing your upbringing. Were you raised in a faith-based home? Or did you encounter God later in life?
• Highlight moments that deeply impacted your relationship with God. This could be positive experiences, like a retreat or a mission trip, or more challenging times when your faith was tested.
• It’s okay to share periods of doubt or times when you had questions about your faith. This makes your journey relatable and authentic.
• Talk about instances where you felt God’s presence or intervention in your life . These personal stories can be powerful testimonies of faith.
• Who has played a pivotal role in your faith journey? Maybe it’s a parent, a pastor, a friend, or even a Christian counselor. Share how they’ve guided or influenced you.
• Weave in relevant Bible verses that have been significant to you. This gives readers a biblical context and shows the foundation of your beliefs.
• Where are you now in your faith journey? Discuss your current practices, beliefs, and hopes for the future.
• End with Reflection and Anticipation :
• Reflect on your growth and the lessons you’ve learned. Share your hopes and aspirations for your continuing journey with God.
• Edit and Review :
• Once you’ve penned down your journey, take some time to review and refine it. Consider sharing it with a trusted friend or Christian counselor for feedback.

Remember, your faith journey is uniquely yours. It doesn’t have to be perfect.

It’s the genuine reflection of your relationship with God that will resonate with readers.

Bible Verses About Faith Being A Journey

The Bible is rich with verses that describe faith as a journey or process, emphasizing growth, perseverance, and God’s guidance.

Here are some verses that beautifully convey this theme:

• “Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.”
• “Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.”
• “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”
• “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.”
• “For we live by faith, not by sight.”
• “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.”
• “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
• “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”
• “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith.”

These verses emphasize the continuous journey of faith, marked by trust, perseverance, and guidance from the Lord.

As you reflect on these verses, may you be encouraged and strengthened in your own faith journey!

No two faith journeys are alike, and that’s the beauty of it – each is a unique dance of trust between the soul and its Creator.

Faith Goals Examples

Let’s explore some faith goals and how you can achieve them.

• Goal : Dedicate 10 minutes each morning to Bible reading.
• Advice : Start with Psalms or Proverbs for daily wisdom and encouragement.
• Scripture : “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” – Psalm 119:105
• Goal : Create a nightly prayer routine.
• Advice : Have a dedicated space at home for prayer to build a habit.
• Scripture : “The LORD is near to all who call on him.” – Psalm 145:18
• Goal : Participate in a women’s Bible study or fellowship group.
• Advice : It’s a great way to build deep, faith-centered relationships.
• Scripture : “For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.” – Matthew 18:20
• Goal : Memorize a Bible verse each month .
• Advice : Pick verses that speak to challenges you’re currently facing.
• Scripture : “I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.” – Psalm 119:11
• Goal : Volunteer at least once a month.
• Advice : Local churches often have outreach programs in need of helping hands.
• Scripture : “Do not forget to do good and to share with others.” – Hebrews 13:16
• Goal : Share your faith story with someone new.
• Advice : Your journey can inspire and uplift others in their walk.
• Scripture : “Let the redeemed of the LORD tell their story.” – Psalm 107:2
• Goal : Choose one day a week to disconnect from electronics and reconnect with God.
• Advice : Use this time for reflection, reading, or nature walks.
• Scripture : “Be still, and know that I am God.” – Psalm 46:10
• Goal : Fast from something specific (like social media) for clarity or focus in prayer.
• Advice : Remember to consult with a doctor before any major dietary changes.
• Scripture : “But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face.” – Matthew 6:17
• Goal : Each evening, jot down things you’re grateful for.
• Advice : Over time, you’ll see how much God is working in your life.
• Scripture : “Every good and perfect gift is from above.” – James 1:17
• Build Faithful Friendships :
• Goal : Seek out godly women for friendship and mutual encouragement.
• Advice : Participate in church events or join Christian women’s groups.
• Scripture : “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” – Proverbs 27:17

I’ve included scriptures for each to give a biblical foundation.

I hope these faith goals inspire and guide you in your walk with God. Remember, it’s about progress, not perfection!

Lord, guide and protect me on my faith journey. Strengthen my trust, renew my hope, and let Your love light my path. In every challenge and joy, may I always feel Your presence. Amen.

Prayer For Your Faith Journey

Heavenly Father, the Author and Perfecter of our faith,

We come before You, acknowledging You as the guiding light on our faith journey.

Every step we take, every challenge we face, we know You are beside us, leading us with Your unfailing love.

Lord, as we navigate the winding paths of our spiritual journey, grant us the grace to trust in You wholeheartedly.

When doubts arise or the road seems uncertain, remind us of Your promises and Your steadfast presence.

Empower us, O God, with the strength to persevere, especially during times of trials and testing.

Let us remember the testimonies of the saints and prophets who have gone before us, drawing inspiration from their unwavering faith.

Provide us with wisdom, Lord, to discern Your will in every circumstance.

May we seek guidance from Your Word, from trusted counselors, and from the still, small voice of the Holy Spirit within.

We pray that our faith journey be marked by growth, transformation, and a deepening relationship with You.

Let our lives be a testament to Your grace, reflecting Your love and compassion to those we encounter.

Above all, Father, we ask for an ever-burning desire to draw closer to You, to know You more intimately, and to serve You faithfully.

Keep our hearts anchored in the truth of the Gospel, and let our steps be firmly rooted in Your ways.

Thank you, Lord, for being our constant companion, our refuge, and our hope.

Guide us, sustain us, and nurture our faith as we journey onward, always seeking Your face.

In Jesus’ name, we pray, Amen.

Join my online women’s Bible study and cultivate meaningful Christian friendships while growing in your faith. Our study resources are designed to guide you in your spiritual renewal and help you deepen your relationship with God. Participate from the comfort of your own home at a time that works for you. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to connect with other women and experience spiritual growth!

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Garrett Nussmeier’s focus in 2024: ‘I want to win a national championship’

T HIBODAUX, La. — LSU quarterback Garrett Nussmeier is entering his fourth year in the purple and gold, but his first season as the Tigers undisputed QB1.

Nussmeier’s journey to being the Tigers’ starting quarterback is a long one and in the age of the transfer portal, the Lake Charles native has been leaning on his faith.

“I got a flash of it and I got a touch of it my freshman year and then it was taken away. So, I’ve just been itching to get it back,” said LSU quarterback Garrett Nussmeier.

Below is the full interview with LSU quarterback Garrett Nussmeier Friday at the Manning Passing Academy:

“A huge thing for me to grow and learn from that and put my trust into God and understand that it will be right when it is my time, and I’ll wait for that time and keep my head down,” added Nussmeier.

Garrett Nussmeier’s first year as starting quarterback will also be Joe Sloan’s first as LSU offensive coordinator. Sloan previously worked with Nussmeier as LSU’s quarterbacks coach and that familiarity is helping Nussmeier adapt to his new role as the Tigers’ starter.

“It’s been huge. He knows me better than anybody at this point outside of probably I’d say my my own father who worked with me I was a kid,” said Nussmeier.

“I don’t know that there’s anybody better in the entire country right now than him at what he’s doing, and his system, and what he teaches. I think his track record will prove itself and what he was able to do with Jayden [Daniels] and help him to unlock different things in Jayden’s game,” added Nussmeier.

Nussmeier is aware he can not replicate what the Heisman Trophy winner has done in the purple and gold, but he is leaning on his experiences with Daniels off the field heading into the 2024 season.

“It was more of just in the building, in the meeting rooms and how to prepare for games, what to be thinking about things like that… Getting to learn from him just little bits and pieces. I really valued our relationship and the lessons I was able to learn from him and I’m reallly excited to get to watch him in Washington,”said Nussmeier.

According to DraftKings Sportsbook, Garrett Nussmeier’s odds of winning the Heisman Trophy in 2024 are +2000. That’s the eighth-best odds behind current favorite and Georgia quarterback Carson Beck (+800).

Behind Beck is Texas’ Quinn Ewers (+900), Oregon’s Dillon Gabriel (+1,000), Alabama’s Jalen Milroe (+1,400), and Ole Miss’ Jaxson Dart (+1,500).

All quarterbacks listed above are counselors at the 28th Manning Passing Academy.

“I could care less about winning the Heisman. I really don’t care at all to be honest with you. Everybody is talking about this three Heisman winners in four years, I don’t care. I want to win a national championship and I want to lead LSU to the greatest stage possible. That’s all I care about,” said Nussmeier.

LSU will open the 2024 season against USC on Sunday, September 1st at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas.

That game will air on WGNO and ABC affiliates.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGNO.

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Photographs and Text by Charlotte Drury

Ms. Drury, a photographer and public speaker based in Brooklyn, was a member of the 2020 U.S. Olympic trampoline gymnastics team.

• June 22, 2024

I’ve dreamed of competing in the Olympics for as long as I can remember. I would practice my salute in front of the bathroom mirror, pretending I was about to begin my routine. I imagined what it would look like, what it would feel like, how it would finish in triumph and joy.

A trampoline routine is made up of 10 skills, each consisting of a double or triple flip with countless twists and shapes in between. All 10 must be performed consecutively, the positions precise. No repeats. Toes pointed.

I was addicted to chasing perfection in the air. The thrill of learning a new skill, refining it and putting it in a routine was my life’s purpose for almost two decades. But as exhilarating as the skills were, it was in the bounces right before, the moments of pure suspension, that I found my freedom.

At the start of every routine, you have to build up to full height. You bounce, each jump building on the one before it, until you are launching skyward with such speed and energy that not even gravity can keep its grip on you. You finally reach your peak, close to 30 feet in the air, and float — just for a millisecond.

I would intentionally place my exhales here, making this moment feel something like meditation, before rushing back down to earth. Poets call it a caesura, an intentional pause taken between two phrases, a clear recognition of a Before and an After.

Within the unimaginable stress of qualifying for the Olympics, I found solace in those moments of levitation.

At the 2016 Olympic trials, I was in the lead to cinch the single spot available for women’s trampoline. I was just a month away from the competition I’d been dreaming of since I was 6. I remember thinking that this time tomorrow, I might finally be an Olympian.

During my final training session, I took off for an ordinary bounce, seeking that peak I loved so much. The moment my feet left the bed of the trampoline, I knew I’d miscalculated. I reached the top of that jump and it was as if time stopped, frozen as a photograph. If I close my eyes, I can still see it now.

A second and a half later, I was on the floor with a broken ankle. I watched the 2016 Olympics from home.

The Olympics can be both cutthroat and cruel; they will not wait for you to be ready, and second chances come around only every four years. While there is, I’m sure, a sweetness in achieving your dream just as you imagined it, my journey was exactly that: a journey.

It has been eight years, almost to the day, since my injury and three years since I traveled to the Tokyo Games as an alternate.

In the time I’ve had to heal and reflect I’ve realized what a gift it is to be able to pursue a dream with such reckless abandon. Within all that fear and risk is a singular experience that happens only when you commit yourself completely, knowing the heights from which you may fall.

I sought to photograph this year’s Olympic hopefuls as an ode to this remarkable and, at times, painful pursuit. Here is a group of exceptional people held together by athletic tape and hope, who leap without sight of where they will land. While no two journeys are the same, this is their universal Before.

All of the trampolinists who will walk into the arena at next week’s U.S. Olympic trials in Minneapolis have at least one thing in common: a love for that rhythmic rise and fall of 10 sequential skills honed over a lifetime of practice.

When the time comes, they will salute the judges and they will jump, despite their fear, higher and higher and higher. Their eyes will find the red “X” that marks the center of the trampoline and they will cling to it like a kite in a storm — their focus on that persistent tug of gravity that will pull them down and give them the opportunity to rise again, in equal measure.

Charlotte Drury is a photographer and public speaker based in Brooklyn and was a member of the 2020 U.S. Olympic team.

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