Week 22: Finding Hope and Like-minded Christians.

Who: Gerry and Deonta

Church: Silverdale Baptist Church

Lunch: Cracker Barrel

Topic: Finding Hope in Uncertain Times and Planning for the Future

It was bound to happen eventually—my professional work would collide with this deeply personal project. And honestly, maybe it’s time I stop trying to draw a line between the two. Be The Change Youth Initiative is more than just a nonprofit; it’s an extension of our family and the values we live by every day. The truth is, even if the organization didn’t officially exist, we’d still be out there doing this work—advocating for change, uplifting communities, and empowering young people. It’s not just what we do; it’s who we are.

This week, we attended Silverdale Baptist Church with our friend Gerry and his family. Our connection with Gerry began last year during a two-day United Way workshop in Chattanooga—a gathering that started as a professional workshop, but quickly revealed itself to be a moment of divine alignment, where paths crossed for reasons beyond what any agenda could outline. Gerry’s warmth and authenticity stood out immediately, and over time, our conversations have evolved into a meaningful friendship. Attending church with him this week was a beautiful reminder of how the connections we make in unexpected places often end up shaping our journey in profound ways. It’s those unplanned, serendipitous moments that remind us there’s always something bigger at play, weaving people and experiences into the fabric of our lives.

But I’m getting a bit ahead of myself. Before diving into everything else, I’d like to take a moment to talk about the church service itself, as it’s worth reflecting on. Let me preface this by saying I’m not entirely comfortable with the notion of attending a church once and then talking about the sermon. That has never been my intent. However, if there’s something that stands out—whether it’s deeply problematic or profoundly impactful—I believe it’s important to acknowledge it. If there’s an issue, it warrants thoughtful critique. Likewise, if something inspires me or leaves a meaningful impression, I think it deserves to be celebrated and shared.

One of the aspects I deeply appreciated about their pastor was his willingness to embrace science as a tool to affirm the existence of the Lord. Rather than viewing science and faith as opposing forces, he used scientific principles to highlight the intricate design of creation. He even went so far as to present a pie chart to the congregation, detailing the composition of our atmosphere. The chart showcased the precise and finely tuned percentages of elements like oxygen, nitrogen, and carbon dioxide—elements that are essential for life to exist. It was a compelling moment that underscored how such delicate balances could point to intentionality and design rather than mere chance. 

During our brunch, we had a meaningful conversation about the level of intentionality the staff demonstrates in their teaching approach. The use of real-world examples serves multiple purposes: it makes learning more engaging and relatable, it fosters critical thinking by showing students how academic subjects intersect with everyday life, and it equips them with the tools to apply their knowledge in meaningful ways. This approach reflects a commitment to holistic education—one that goes beyond the classroom and prepares students to become thoughtful and informed members of society.

Eventually, our conversation shifted to reflect on life and where we currently find ourselves in the United States, particularly in the context of the work we do with Be The Change Youth Initiative (BTCYI). As we discussed the state of the nation, themes like inequality and the growing need for intentional community building came up. We talked about how these issues are intertwined with our mission (and our faith) and why the work we’re doing is so critical right now.

In particular, we focused on the urgency of addressing food insecurity, not just as a logistical challenge but as a deeply human issue that reflects broader societal inequities. In the United States—one of the wealthiest nations in the world—it’s heartbreaking that so many children and families still struggle to access basic needs like food. We also reflected on how divided and polarized things can feel in the country right now and how that division impacts community-based work. BTCYI takes an intentional approach to bridge these gaps by focusing on collaboration—bringing together students, creatives, and local organizations to build a unified effort around many important issues, like food insecurity. The work is deeply personal, driven by the belief that creating small, impactful changes at the community level can ripple outwards to inspire larger transformations.

Ultimately, this part of the conversation reinforced a shared understanding: our mission with BTCYI (and as followers of Jesus) is not just about addressing immediate needs, but also about fostering hope, unity, and a sense of purpose in a time when so many people feel disconnected. By equipping young people to step up as leaders and inviting entire communities into this work, we’re creating a model for how change can happen—even amidst challenges—and how we can all bring something valuable to the table.

CHALLENGE: If you’re disconnected, or discouraged, in the current political climate, think about your community and how you can connect with people to create meaningful change together. Whether it’s volunteering at a local organization, starting a conversation about an issue you’re passionate about, or collaborating on a project that uplifts others, small actions can lead to big impacts. By working alongside others who share your values, you can build a sense of belonging, find renewed hope, and make a tangible difference in your community. Remember, change starts with connection—so take that first step today.