Fellows Led Fridays

As Pittsburgh Fellows, we have the privilege of partaking in Fellows Fridays. On these Fridays, the morning is carved out for discussions of Christian formational topics, and the afternoon is dedicated to volunteer work, excursions into Pittsburgh, or other growth opportunities. Kicking off 2026, the Fellows have spent these mornings diving into Dallas Willard’s book Renovation of the Heart. The book highlights putting on the character of Christ, apprenticeship to Jesus, and of course, the renovation of one’s heart.  

Discussions for this book have been primarily Fellows led, with two Fellows pairing up each week and leading the discussion of two chapters of the book by posing questions, prompting conversation, and digging deeper into Willard’s writing. Attending discussions led by other Fellows has been an absolute joy, and the conversations and debates that have taken place have been a learning experience.  

The two Fellows that lead each week also pick a spiritual discipline for all Fellows to practice on Friday afternoon. Our Friday spiritual disciplines have given us structured and purposeful time in prayer and reflection. For example, we have meditated through a prayer of protection, or a Lorica, such as St. Patrick's Breastplate. We've also prayed over Scripture through the Lectio Divina, following the steps of read, meditate, pray, and contemplate. These practices have been a great way to slow down and dwell in Christ after working during the week. Having time carved out of my week that is dedicated to Christian formation and being able to do so with the community of other Fellows has been formational. I am grateful that the Pittsburgh Fellows has given me the time and opportunity to do so, and I am excited to continue having conversations about Christ with other Fellows. 

-Written by Oliver Schwarz, Class of 2026

Oliver graduated from Grove City College and works at PGT Trucking as a Pittsburgh Fellow.