2310 Fort Avenue, Lynchburg VA

I can’t begin to put into words how profoundly moving my 79th visit was to Change Me Ministries and Fellowship, as I continue on this journey to visit every church in my city, guided by the Holy Spirit.

This stop wasn’t just another church visit…it was an experience of warmth, grace, and healing that left a lasting impression on my heart.

Despite car troubles, which made me about seven minutes late, I was welcomed with open arms and a huge hug from Pastor Patricia Braxton herself.

Instead of showing any hint of frustration at my tardiness, Pastor Patricia radiated warmth and joy, making it clear how genuinely happy she was to see me there.

Her embrace felt like coming home, and it set the tone for the entire morning.

Her kindness, along with the welcoming smiles and greetings from the congregation, made me feel like I had been part of this faith family for years.

As I settled in, a gentleman moved closer to where I was sitting, inviting me to join a conversation about Psalm 23 that was already underway through a study guide.

I was immediately drawn into the discussion, which revolved around the comforting words of this cherished psalm, exploring God’s role as our Shepherd.

The dialogue was interactive and open, with every member invited to share their experiences and reflections. It felt refreshing and intimate…an environment where asking questions and seeking deeper understanding was encouraged and celebrated.

Pastor Patricia’s sermon was unlike any I’ve experienced before.

It was not a one-way lecture but rather a shared conversation.

She encouraged us to speak up, ask questions, and even challenge ourselves as we explored the message together. She reminded us that sometimes, we hesitate to take on challenges that God has already given us the victory in, out of fear or self-doubt.

Using the beautiful metaphor of shepherding, she illustrated how God leads us, provides for us, and protects us, even when we might not fully trust Him or see the way forward.

Pastor Patricia shared a heartfelt reflection on why the name “Change Me Ministries” is so meaningful to her and the congregation.

She explained that every transformation, every breakthrough, every act of faith starts with a simple but profound prayer: “Lord, change me.”

Her words struck a deep chord within me, and I realized that this was exactly what I needed to hear. It was a reminder that God is always ready and willing to meet our needs, even in our moments of vulnerability and doubt.

We also talked about Psalm 84:11: “For the Lord God is a sun and shield; the Lord bestows favor and honor; no good thing does he withhold from those who walk uprightly.”

This verse sang to my spirit, a reminder that God will supply all our needs, even when the world feels like it’s falling apart.

The congregation spoke with a sense of peace and confidence in God’s provision, reinforcing that our security rests in Him alone.

One of the most beautiful aspects of the service was the participation from every member.

Each person was bold, brave, and unafraid to speak openly about their relationship with God, sharing personal stories, insights, and encouragements.

There was a down-to-earth quality to the way they expressed their faith, using relatable metaphors and vivid imagery that made complex conversations feel accessible and grounded.

It was clear that each person felt safe to worship freely, to speak honestly, and to love openly.

After the service, the kindness of the congregation continued to unfold.

Pastor Patricia and several members took the time to personally show me around their church, including a tour of their daycare facility.

This ministry embodies the heart of Change Me Ministries… a place where children are nurtured in an atmosphere of love and security, a place where God’s love is experienced from an early age.

What touched me deeply was that many members stayed an hour after the service, just to hear more about my journey and offer words of encouragement.

They listened intently, showing genuine interest in my story, and they lifted me up with their support and prayers.

Their openness, their willingness to stay, to listen, to encourage…it was a powerful reminder of the beauty of Christian fellowship.

In those moments, I felt God’s love pouring through them, touching the broken places in my heart and reminding me that I am not alone on this journey.

Each interaction, each shared story, each prayer today was a gift.

God blessed me beyond measure, filling my heart with the reassurance that He is indeed piecing together every fragment of my soul, healing me with His boundless love and grace.

I left Change Me Ministries feeling humbled, grateful, and deeply touched, carrying with me a profound sense of peace and joy.

For anyone seeking a place where they can be real, where they can ask questions, grow, and experience the power of God’s love, I wholeheartedly recommend visiting Change Me Ministries.

This is a place where the focus is not on perfection, but on the journey… on allowing God to change us from the inside out. It’s a place of warmth, of laughter, of love, and of genuine, Spirit-filled worship.

As I continue on this journey, my heart is eager to see where God will lead me next.

Each church I visit, each sermon I hear, each hand I hold, and each prayer I pray brings me closer to wholeness, closer to the love of Christ, and closer to the community He is building around me.

Thank you, Change Me Ministries, for the love, joy, and hope you shared with me today.