Brianne Booth

I'd never been a regular church go-er. I would go to my grandmothers United Methodist Church occasionally, usually on holidays like Easter or Christmas. I knew about God, but he was in my peripheral - just kinda there when I thought of him.

I found church boring, and the old time hymns uninspiring. I just didn't get it. Why torture yourself on Sunday when you could be out enjoying the weekend?

Then, through my friend, Nikki Henry, I discovered Connection Church - a whole new way to worship and know God. The worship music wasn't played on an organ, but with electric guitars and drums in a movie theater of all places. I could wear jeans and the pastor didn't seem to be high and mighty, but one of us. He was funny, but also brought a serious message that I could understand. And most of all, I learned about God in a fun and engaging way. It is no longer a boring ritual, but it has meaning! I often find myself in tears, just being overwhelmed by Jesus' love.

I was baptized in August of 2005, and couldn't be happier about it. However, just because I was baptized doesn't mean things are all hunky dorey! I struggle every day of the week with my faith. Am I being a good Christian? How can I improve? What did I do today that did not mesh with my christian faith, and how do I avoid it in the future? I am constantly trying to prove myself to God, although I know his love is unconditional. I feel like I have to earn it, must be a human thing.

He has shown me a family - a church family. I can talk to almost anyone in the congregation about my problems, and I know they would listen and try to help. I don't feel that I am the only one lost in my faith because no one comes across as the perfect christian. I hope to keep growing in my faith by sharing myself in small groups, and helping with the kids in Lil' K and nursery. 

I have found my church home, where I am encouraged to grow and learn and love and LAUGH! :)