I'm here...Again!

[julia_c247]

Hi all! I am back from being away from this forum for a few years. I'm 21, a college student, (and hoping to finish soon, Lord willing)! and an ex- CoC member as well! I really hope to be engaged and give advice to others. Life has been good since I disappeared, however, my family drama (pertaining to the CoC) has started back up again, and I plan to update you all in the coming days and weeks. I'm happy to report that I am still a Christian (attending a non-denominational Church that teaches grace and love; both of which I did not receive in the CoC).

Just a short background, I was born into a CoC family - my grandfather is still a preacher in the CoC today. All of my dad's family still adheres and attends a church of Christ. I went to a progressive CoC for many of my childhood years, however, I went with my grandparents to their church at least 1 or 2 times a month due to my parents' busy work schedules. I also attended a school that was affiliated with the CoC. As I got older, I began having really bad anxiety, and for a period of time, depression, that had a lot to do with my CoC upbringing. I'm so beyond ungrateful that I was able to break free from the "fire and brimstone" Church of Christ. Some people ask me how I still believe in God despite everything I went through, and I tell them that it was God that saved me from those dark times. He pulled a miracle through me by opening my eyes to the grace and the overwhelming love that is offered through Him. I was reminded that Jesus walked on this Earth to put the righteous in their place, all while showing love to the poor, sinners, tax collectors, prostitutes, etc. This is how I must live my life - serving and loving others no matter where they come from. That is all I will say about my current faith, as this is not the purpose of this forum. I look forward to engaging with you all and journeying through life together!

[Cootie Brown]

Welcome back. I hope you can find the time to post some of your thoughts & experiences.

[Ivy]

Yay!! Welcome back!!

[teresa]

Welcome to the board.

[Moogy]

Welcome back!