1997 Thomas Jefferson Road, Forest VA

Today, my heart overflowed with profound gratitude as my daughter and I stepped into Mercy Presbyterian Church, the 114th stop on this sacred walk of faith to visit every church in our beautiful city.

Every church visit has its own story, but today’s story wrapped itself tenderly around my heart, leaving an imprint I will cherish forever.

From the moment we arrived, Mercy Presbyterian felt like a safe place, a place gently whispering, “Welcome home.”

Outside, the building stood radiant beneath a clear sky. I’d heard debates about whether the church building itself was pink, but today the church seemed draped in a heavenly hue, as though God Himself was smiling upon this gathering.

The joyful laughter of children reminded me of Jesus’ own words: “Let the little children come to me.” Watching these young hearts play and laugh without hesitation, I saw a glimpse of innocence and purity that stirred something deep within my own heart.

Before the service, we met a beautiful woman whose eyes held warmth that spoke louder than her gentle words. Her welcoming spirit embraced us like long-awaited family, a feeling that settled softly in our souls.

Moments later, Don approached us with laughter in his eyes and jokes on his lips, his humor and kindness gently breaking down any lingering walls, making us feel safe, wanted, and deeply loved.

This church has a sacred mission written upon their hearts:
“We desire to be a church that reflects the mercy we’ve received from God in our relationships with one another while extending that mercy to our neighbors, proclaiming the excellencies of Him who called us out of darkness into His marvelous light.” (1 Peter 2:9)

Hearing this mission was a reminder of the mercy I myself have received on this long road toward healing.

Mercy Presbyterian Church does not merely preach the Gospel; they embody it. Their arms are open, their hearts wide, all a reminder of God’s unfailing mercy.

As the service began, it was evident we were experiencing something profoundly special.

Worship filled the sanctuary, voices blending harmoniously, lifting praise heavenward.

Then, Pastor Bryan stepped forward, his presence radiating kindness, humility, and a deep, sincere love for Christ and His people. Meeting his wonderful wife and precious children revealed a family that truly lived their message of mercy and grace.

Pastor Bryan’s sermon, drawn from Romans 16:1-16, pierced my heart in ways I did not anticipate. His words brought forth tears I didn’t even know were waiting.

He spoke passionately of the church as a family, as a universal body, as an intricate part of God’s mission here on earth. He beautifully painted a vision of brothers and sisters connected across the globe… not by earthly bonds, but by the precious blood of Jesus Christ.

He reminded us there is no other faith that transcends borders, languages, and cultures, uniting souls from every tribe, tongue, and nation. We are not alone. We never were. We never will be.

Listening to Pastor Bryan, I felt the barriers of isolation, fear, and doubt that so often plague my spirit begin to dissolve.

I was gently reminded that the very same love that carried me through the darkest valleys, the same love that reached into my brokenness and whispered grace, is the love that binds us as a family of God.

When the time came for communion, my daughter and I were invited to join, the bread broken, the cup poured out, simple elements that spoke of sacrifice, forgiveness, and a love too profound for words.

As I took communion, I felt the weight of mercy wrap around me like a warm embrace mingling with prayers of thanksgiving whispered in humble awe.

Mercy Presbyterian Church, thank you. Thank you for opening your hearts, for welcoming strangers as beloved family, and for living out the very mercy your name proclaims.

As we stepped out of the sanctuary, I looked at my daughter, smiling, deeply grateful for the love we had encountered and shared.

Today was more than just visiting a church, it was about finding family, about belonging to something eternal and beautiful.

I eagerly await the next step of this journey, knowing fully that the Holy Spirit continues guiding each step, healing every wound, and revealing His mercy in ways I never dreamed possible.

To God be all the glory, honor, and praise, today, tomorrow, and forevermore.