Growing up, I was raised as an Evangelical Protestant. My grandfather was a pastor and one of the most amazing people I’ve ever known. He always served his congregation, visiting widows and disabled people, and even opening his home to those in need. His kindness and love for others inspired me.
His teachings and example instilled in me a deep respect for God and a commitment to seeking the right way to live according to God’s will. My grandfather’s guidance and love helped prepare me for my journey to the Mormon church.
Travis and Bootcamp
So, back in 1999, I was 18 years old and had just started basic combat training at Fort Benning, GA. That’s where I met this guy named Travis. He was only 17, just about to finish high school, and in the Army Reserve. Poor guy was getting teased for being a Mormon, and even though I wasn’t a fan of their religion, I didn’t think anyone should be made fun of for their beliefs.
So I talked to Travis, and we hit it off. He was a cool dude, and I was surprised to learn more about his faith. He was passionate about it and gave me a Book of Mormon to read.
When I started reading the Book of Mormon, something just clicked for me. This overwhelming sense of truth washed over me. It was a lightbulb moment, where everything just made sense. I knew right then and there that my life was never going to be the same. These were the words of God, spoken through ancient prophets and translated by Joseph Smith through divine power. It was powerful, and I felt grateful to have come across it.
My faith future
Just a few weeks after I started reading the Book of Mormon, I decided to join the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The missionaries took me and another new convert in their van to a nearby creek, and we were baptized right there, still wearing our PT uniform. It was a simple ceremony, but it was so powerful for me. I felt this sense of cleanliness and newness, like I was starting fresh. Most of all, I felt this huge outpouring of love from God, and love for God. It isn’t always the same, but sometimes I can almost relive the feeling. It was a life-changing experience, and I’ll never forget it.
