1018 Rivermont Avenue, Lynchburg VA

Today was a truly beautiful visit to Immanuel Christian Church, marking the 98th stop on this incredible journey of faith.

From the moment I arrived, I felt something special about this place.

The church doors were wide open, a small yet deeply meaningful gesture that immediately filled my heart with warmth. It was as if the church itself was saying, “Come in, you are welcome here.”

In that moment, I knew this would be one of the most memorable and spirit-filled visits yet.

There is something extraordinary about stepping into a church with over 125 years of history, a place where faith has been passed down from generation to generation.

The weight of that legacy could be felt in every part of the sanctuary, in the kindness of the people, and in the way this congregation gathers to worship, serve, and love one another.

Immanuel Christian Church is built on a powerful mission to exalt the Lord, evangelize the seeker, edify the believer, energize the gifted, and empower each person to fulfill God’s purpose.

From the very first conversation I had, I could tell this church family was living out that mission in a way that was real and deeply rooted in love.

Arriving early, I was blessed to be able to sit in on their Bible Study, where the discussion focused on Exodus and the profound truth that God dwells within us.

It was a reminder that our bodies are temples of the Lord, and just as God gave instructions for how the tabernacle was to be built, He also gives us instructions on how to honor and care for the dwelling place of His Spirit within us.

The conversation flowed into a discussion on the veil of the Old Testament, how it once stood as a barrier between man and God, and how Jesus, our High Priest, tore that veil, giving us direct access to eternal redemption.

As we explored God’s plans being revealed from the inside out, I was reminded of how He has been working within me, even in the places I thought were too broken to be restored.

One of the greatest blessings of this journey has been meeting God’s people, and today was no exception.

Evangelist Maria took the time to give me a tour of the church and share its rich history, and with every conversation I had, I felt a deeper connection to the heart of this congregation. Everyone in the church was so incredibly kind and loving, and there was never a moment where I felt like a visitor. It was as if I had come home to a place I never knew I needed.

As we entered the sanctuary, the service began with a time for praise and testimony.

There is something so powerful about hearing people share their stories of what Jesus has done in their lives, lifting their voices in acapella worship, and openly expressing gratitude for the kindness of their church family.

One member spoke through praise, sharing how this church had supported them through some of the hardest times in their life.

I understood that feeling completely because I, too, felt wrapped in the love and prayers of this congregation on this day.

The worship was absolutely beautiful.

The Immanuel Men’s Choir filled the sanctuary with powerful voices lifted in praise, and it was impossible not to feel the presence of the Holy Spirit moving through the room.

We read from Galatians 5:16 and Hebrews 11:22, I couldn’t help but reflect on how Jesus has lifted me out of darkness time and time again.

Then came the sermon, delivered by Minister Irvine, and it was one of the most powerful messages I have ever heard.

She spoke on a question that struck me to my core: Do we have a worldly mindset or a godly mindset? It was the kind of message that makes you stop, reflect, and examine your heart deeply.

How often do we allow the world to shape our thinking rather than letting God transform our minds?

How often do we put our faith in temporary things instead of eternal truths?

Minister Irvine’s words challenged me in the best way possible, reminding me that we are called to walk in the Spirit, not in the flesh, and that true transformation begins with a heart fully surrendered to God.

There are some moments in life that stay with you forever, and today was filled with those moments. Pastor Rev. Dr. Mack H. Johnson, Sr., Th. D. is so kind and joyful for the Lord, I am grateful for the opportunity to connect with this beautiful family.

Immanuel Christian Church is a place of prayer, a place of praise, and a place where the presence of God is undeniably felt.

One of the most humbling and deeply touching moments of the service was when the congregation prayed over me and this journey. To stand in the presence of so many faithful believers, to feel the power of their prayers surrounding me, was something I will cherish for the rest of my life.

I wholeheartedly encourage everyone to visit this incredible church and experience the love, joy, and faith that overflows from its people.

This was not just a church service… it was an encounter with the love of Christ through His people.

I left feeling renewed, encouraged, and forever changed by this visit, and I am so grateful for the divine appointments God continues to set before me.

With each church I visit, I see more and more of God’s love, His faithfulness, and His power to heal and restore the broken places in my life.

I cannot wait to see where the Holy Spirit leads me next as this journey unfolds. To God be the glory, now and forever.