One of my greatest passions is witnessing the incredible power of connection—the way God works through simple acts of love to transform lives. Through the Christians in Action (CIA) program, I’ve seen firsthand how students can find hope, purpose, and belonging. Recently, I met a student in Mercersburg whose spirit seemed dimmed. As a sixth grader last year, he radiated joy, but something had changed. My heart told me I had to step in.
After some prayer and conversation, I discovered he had never attended church—my moment to act. I reached out to Pastor Dave Possinger and, with the blessing of his guardians, invited him to a church known for passionate outreach and unwavering hospitality. This was more than just an invitation—it was a chance for this young man to experience the love of Christ in a way he never had before.
That Sunday was life-changing. Though naturally introverted, he was welcomed with overwhelming kindness. We worshipped together, and he stepped into a Sunday school class with other James Buchanan Middle School students. He began to open up. He shared bits of his life, including that—like me—his biological father was absent. He lives in a small single-story rancher with his grandparents, his mom, her boyfriend, and two younger siblings.
One of the most beautiful moments? We laughed together, using jelly packets as tiny skateboards, flipping them into imaginary tricks. A simple, silly game, yet one that broke barriers and built trust.
Then came Monday. When he walked into the Mercersburg CIA program, he was on fire! Enthralled by the lesson, determined to earn points so he could attend camp for free, he was full of energy and hope. And the story didn’t stop there—Mercersburg Mennonite Church rallied around him. They’ve been reaching out, asking how he’s doing and how they can help him stay connected to a church family if he chooses to keep attending.
THIS is what it’s all about. THIS is the body of Christ in action. A simple invitation. A moment of kindness. A bridge built. And just like that, a young life is being changed.
If this story touches your heart, please pray for more students like him. Pray that they find a community that welcomes them with open arms. And if you feel led—be that person who extends an invitation. You never know whose life you might change with a little love and a simple invite.
Upcoming Events
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