Our Stories...

Kathy Bray

Place of Salvation: Bristol New Covenant Church
Date of Salvation: 00/00/Year

My Story

When I was a child I would go to church with my parents, where I learnt all about God and how he sent his son Jesus to die for us. I remember thinking how great this was.

One Sunday, when I was around 5 years old, we were leaving church in our car and I suddenly realised that God loved me and I asked him if I could become a christian. He said yes, of course I could! Day by day I learnt more about him. My mum read me the bible, and I would pray and talk to God before I went to sleep each night. He would always look after me, bless me, and speak to me.

A few years passed, and when I was 9 years old I heard about some people getting baptised in our church. I asked my mum what it was all about and she told me that baptism is the washing away of our sins because of Jesus' death on the cross, and enables us to start a new life with Jesus. I was excited and when they asked me if I wanted to be baptised I said yes. I had already said sorry for my sins and this would confirm everything.

I got baptised in a swimming pool in Bristol, and I felt completely different- I had left sin behind and was starting a new life with Jesus as my Lord and saviour. My life didn't change much straight away but over the years God has been transforming me, gradually revealing to me what my destiny is, and who he is as my God.

Today, I am 21 and still very much a christian! I found Carmel church when I was 18 and have been here ever since. I know that God called me there for a reason- to be challenged to move forward with my faith and to serve him, as we reach the people of Bristol. I can't say that God rescued me from a drug addiction or abuse, because I have never had anything terrible like that in my life. In fact, my life has been one big blessing from start to finish!

And that, in fact, is a testimony in itself, because I can honestly say that God has never ever failed me, he has healed me of all sicknesses, he has always provided me with good finances, friends, top grades at school/uni, and helps me through difficult times such as when my uncle died, or when things look helpless. When I am afraid He reminds me that I must not worry because He is here looking after me. When I feel pain He comforts me.

I admit that being a Christian is not always easy because you have to continually move out of your comfort zone, but it's always worth it. And, when life is going well I thank him because he truely is a great God!