4018 Peakland Place, Lynchburg VA

Today marked a profoundly meaningful and joyous milestone… I had the incredible honor of visiting the 100th church on my journey to experience every church in our city.

Reflecting upon this number, my heart is overwhelmed with gratitude, knowing deeply that it’s only by God’s abundant grace that I’m here today.

After enduring unimaginable abuse throughout my childhood and recently sharing publicly about the trauma I faced, the compassionate embrace from this loving community has been nothing short of miraculous.

Visiting every church in our city will take approximately eight years… the exact length of time I experienced that childhood abuse.

But through every visit, God continues to restore my soul and mend my broken heart.

Today was exceptionally special as I stepped into Peakland Baptist Church, marking the incredible milestone of visit number 100.

From the moment I arrived, I felt a divine peace.

Almost immediately, I was greeted by the familiar, radiant smile of the Rev. Dr. Martha Kearse, whose warm presence confirmed that today’s service would be an unforgettable experience.

And indeed, it was.

Arriving early, I had the special privilege of listening to the choir rehearse.

Their harmonious voices echoed beautifully throughout the sanctuary, and as they sang “Sweet Hour of Prayer,” I felt as if heaven itself had opened to shower peace upon me.

The music resonated deep within, offering profound comfort and setting a gentle, worshipful atmosphere.

Before the service began, I met Allan Heer, the incredibly gifted pianist, who played an inspiring and moving prelude.

Allan has attended Peakland Baptist Church for 25 years.

With warmth and humor, he shared that every Sunday he gets into his car and jokingly says his car doesn’t know where else to go.

Watching Allan warmly greet each person, it was evident this congregation is not just a group of worshipers, but truly a family bound together by love and faith.

The sanctuary itself was stunning, certainly among the most beautiful I have encountered on this journey.

Its serene atmosphere, complemented by the welcoming smiles and open hearts, made me feel safe and at peace.

Every handshake, every heartfelt hug—especially the one from Cindy Ferguson—embodied Christ’s love in a way that touched my soul profoundly.

Cindy’s hug, genuine and deeply comforting, reminded me that I am not alone, that God also loves me through His people, assuring me everything will be okay.

We began our worship with a beautiful Call to Worship from Psalm 139, one of my favorite scriptures.

It lovingly reminded me, especially when it’s difficult to believe, that I am wonderfully made, deeply known, and cherished by God.

We recited together: “Oh Lord, you have searched me and known me. You know when I sit down and when I rise up; you knitted me together in my mother’s womb. I praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made.”

These comforting words washed over me, affirming my worth in God’s eyes.

One of the most touching moments was when the congregation sang the Lord’s Prayer. Although this is something relatively new to me, I find it incredibly beautiful and deeply moving every time I hear it.

Rev. Dr. Martha’s sermon, titled “Carefree Planting,” spoke directly to my heart.

Drawing from the parable of the sower in Luke 8:1-8, she explained how some seeds fall upon rocks, others among thorns, yet some find fertile soil and produce a hundredfold.

Rev. Martha reminded us that our role is not to control outcomes but simply to faithfully sow seeds, trusting fully in God’s perfect plans.

She shared Jesus’ teaching that if a place rejected the disciples’ message, they were to shake the dust from their sandals and move forward without worry.

Her message went directly to my heart, highlighting the powerful truth that our lives are meant to be surrendered to God, trusting Him entirely with every outcome.

Rev. Martha beautifully stated, “We are borrowing some clay and stardust from the planet, imbued with the very breath of God, making us no different from each other, no more separate than fingers on a hand.”

This poetic imagery profoundly touched me, reminding me of the precious interconnectedness and value of each life, including my own.

I am deeply grateful to each member of Peakland Baptist Church for their genuine compassion, warmth, and overflowing joy shared with me today.

I wholeheartedly encourage everyone to visit this remarkable community to experience firsthand the extraordinary love and peace found here.

This journey has not always been easy, but every step has been divinely guided, filling my heart with renewed hope and purpose.

Today’s milestone is only the beginning, and I’m eager and humbled to continue seeing where the Holy Spirit leads next week.

God is faithfully restoring all that was broken, and I trust fully He will use my story for His glory.