In Scripture, women gathered daily at the well to draw the water that they and their families needed to survive and thrive. Even today in many countries in the world, the well is a gathering place for women and a source of life.

InterVarsity's Women in the Academy & Professions has borrowed this image in the title of its newly launched website and electronic newsletter The Well. In this virtual gathering place, graduate and professional women receive wisdom, care, challenge, and inspiration as they seek to follow Christ in the academic and work world.

As we have listened to the stories of women in graduate school training and in the academic and professional world, loneliness and the need for peers and mentors are frequent concerns. We hear of busy lives spent studying, working, and care-giving, often leading to isolation from interactions which could renew purpose and refresh souls. It is our prayer that time spent at The Well will provide women with opportunities to connect with others in similar circumstances and introduce stories and insights of women creatively living for God's Kingdom purposes.

Although The Well is designed for women, many of the issues addressed are also faced by men. We hope men will participate in the site both as Good Brothers and as those who receive encouragement and counsel.

Encourage the women you work with--graduate students, faculty, professionals, and undergraduates who are thinking about academic or professional careers -- to come to The Well and find regular features that include:

In Focus: Thoughtful, in-depth articles

Reflections: Personal refections on following Christ

Living Water: Resources from God's Word

Dear Mentor: Questions addressed by our mentors

Good Brothers: Stories and words of encouragement from men

Voices: Interviews with women gathered at The Well

We hope you and women in your ministry will join us there soon and sign up to receive our regular electronic newsletters, which will inform you of new pieces published at The Well.