2213 Cobbs Street Lynchburg, VA

Today, as the sun rose on another beautiful day, my heart was filled with joy and anticipation as I set out to explore yet another sacred space on my incredible pilgrimage to visit every Christian church in my city.

Little did I know that this day would become a treasured memory, etched forever in the tapestry of my soul.

Upon arriving at Life Ministries Church of God of Prophecy, I was instantly captivated by the vibrant energy that enveloped the entrance.

A group of kind-hearted people stood there, radiant with warmth and love. Among them was the Pastor himself, with a smile so genuine that we were attending service today.

As I stepped into the Sanctuary, the atmosphere felt like a warm embrace. I was met with the sight of a beautiful patriotic display, a reminder of the freedom we have in Christ. The room was brimming with people, young and old, all eager to unite in worship.

Having recently attended a convention for COGOP, I was overjoyed to recognize familiar faces from that gathering among the congregation. It was as though God was weaving together the threads of our lives, connecting us in this place of worship.

In the midst of the congregation, I was privileged to meet Alma Vernon, the Associate Pastor’s wife. She humbly shared her testimony of how Jesus saved her after a medical event that left her with only a 10 percent chance of survival. Her story of miraculous healing filled my heart with awe and inspired me to know and believe in the power of God’s grace.

As we waited for the service to begin, the welcome team extended their loving hospitality, showering myself, my friend and neighbor, Jill, and my daughter with thoughtful gift bags filled with mints, a pen, and a heartwarming message. Their attention to detail and genuine care made us feel like treasured guests.

The church bulletins were more than just pieces of paper; they were a testament to the spirit of unity and prayer that binds this congregation. Prayers for one another, birthdays being celebrated, and space to jot down notes during the sermon spoke volumes about the depth of the connections within this loving community.

The worship began, and I was captivated by the distinct rock and roll sound that filled the air. It was a refreshing and delightful way to praise the Lord, and I found myself swaying to the rhythm of His grace.

Then came the moment we had all been eagerly awaiting – Pastor Jon Gillette took the pulpit with a fire in his eyes and passion in his voice. His sermon on Acts Chapter 14, intertwined with stories of perseverance and faith, struck a chord deep within my soul. As he spoke, it was evident that his words were not just teachings but a divine message straight from the heart of God.

Throughout the service, Pastor Jon’s compassionate eye contact with the congregation conveyed a sense of genuine connection. He shared four profound lessons that tough times teach us – patience, perseverance, perspective, and above all, the unyielding presence of God in every season of life. Pastor Jon, despite going through a tough time himself, with the loss of their beloved dog, truly embodied his message.

As he concluded with a challenge to share the Gospel with at least one person per week, a sense of responsibility and excitement ignited within me. The urge to make a difference in the lives of others through the power of Christ’s love.

After the service, Pastor Jon and his wife, Sadie, graciously took the time to engage with me. Their genuine interest and heartfelt prayers left me feeling seen and cared for. I knew that God had placed me in that moment for a reason, and I cherished every word they spoke.

To all my fellow seekers and believers, if you desire a Spirit-filled church that welcomes you with open arms, I wholeheartedly recommend visiting Life Ministries. Their mission to bear witness for Christ and spread the Gospel in all its fullness and power is evident in every aspect of their ministry. Learn more at https://www.cogoplynchburg.com/

To all those I met today, though I could not mention each name here, please know that your love, encouragement, and unwavering faith have left an unforgettable mark on my heart.

As I continue on this sacred journey to explore every church in my city, my heart swells with gratitude for the remarkable moments and connections that God continues to bless me with. The bonds we forge through our shared faith are a testament to the beauty of God’s plan for each of our lives.

I invite you to join me on this adventure of faith and exploration, for it is in unity and community that we truly experience the boundless love and grace of our Lord.