TESTIMONY: Pamela Simon
It’s funny how God works in people's lives. I never thought I'd find myself excited for Crew small group nights where we reflect on stories from the Bible and share our insights on scripture. I grew up in Catholic school from preschool to 8th grade and was taught about God, but I never actually had the connection I heard some people have with Him. It was more of a "routine" type of relationship; everything was planned and organized.
When I graduated 8th grade, I decided I would go to a public high school. It was in a completely different world. I was surrounded by bad influences and I was bullied frequently. I constantly cried to myself and asked God why me? I never stopped believing there was a God, but I just didn't really know Him. I would say a quick prayer from time to time hoping God was listening.
It wasn't until years later that I finally developed a personal relationship with God. It was much overdue! Even though I was no longer attending Catholic school/Church, I had family that always tried to speak true Christianity into my life. They would invite me to Church and even though I went a few times, I always said to myself I will NEVER be a Christian...nope, never! It wasn't for me...it was weird to me...it was different than what I grew up learning and I didn’t want to budge.
My brother started attending a Christian High School and he one day invited me to a Christian conference. I rejected his invitation until he finally convinced me last minute to go since my parents were also going. I thought it would be boring, I didn't know anyone, and what do you do at a Christian conference?, That’s not how I wanted to spend my Friday night, etc., etc.
I don't know what got into me, but night 1 of the conference I found myself singing and even raising my hands to God. I kept trying to hold back tears and I can't really explain all I was feeling. I just know I felt free from all the hurt I ever went thru in life leading up to that point. I was made new!
Ever since that night I have definitely spread my wings and yes, started attending a lively Christian church. Although shy at first, I have made so many new friends. Even my husband, who was also opposed to Christianity at first, now comes regularly with me to Legacy Church and we have both grown so much in the last few years. We both serve in the church, attend Crews and have made lifelong friendships and family. I love my church and I don't know where I would be without my church family. Our lives have changed a lot and our faith is stronger than ever. We can't wait to have kids someday and have them grow up in Church and see how our family will develop with God by our side.
As a church we do not believe in doing life alone. We want to pray with you.
Growing up in Providence my mom raised 4 girls on her own. As a kid I ran away and looked for an outlet through drugs and broken relationships…