To the entire Apostles family,
The first time I stepped into a service at Church of the Apostles I immediately felt something move in me. At first, I couldn’t quite put my finger on it, but as the weeks have gone by and my time as a Fellow has come to an end, I have come to realize that for the first time in my life I have felt at home. Growing up, I never had the experience of being raised in an overly Christian home. After my parents divorced when I was younger, we never really talked about God, and I surely did not believe that God was real. I grew up broken, unaware of the beauty of the Lord that existed all around me. Luckily, by the grace of God, I found my way to faith my senior year of high school and have made it my mission to follow him ever since. Yet, I never found a church that felt like home, until now.
For the first time in my life, I look forward to the joy that comes with attending church on Sundays. I love walking into the sanctuary on Sunday mornings and being immediately greeted by friendly faces that love me for me. I love that the Raleigh Fellows program exists at a church where the congregation is so incredibly alive with the Holy Spirit. Looking out and seeing men, women, and children raise their hands in ultimate surrender to their King is one of the greatest feelings in the world. It shows that Jesus is alive.
Church to me has become my sanctuary, my place of safety, rest, and renewal. During my time as a Fellow, I have had the immense privilege of serving in both the nursery and Student Ministry at Apostles. Nothing makes me happier than playing trucks with two-year-olds and laughing at the smallest, most ordinary parts of life. Through these experiences, I have met so many amazing families that are rooted in Christ. These families have honestly changed my life and I will forever be thankful for the kind words and wisdom they have shared with me.
Thank you to the entire Apostles family, from all twelve of the Raleigh Fellows, for showing us what living a life of true surrender looks like. Thank you for loving us and accepting us, for treating us like family and welcoming us with open arms. You have truly changed our lives and we will forever be thankful for each and every one of you.
With Love,
Luke Harvin, RF ‘22
*Join us on Sunday as we celebrate this Raleigh Fellows Class as well as our High School Seniors!*
