God Moves: How a Small Yes and a Small Place Can Make a Big Impact
Brenda has been a part of the Redemption Church and Family Empowerment Centers community for over two decades. She shares a short testimony of how God has used this part of her life to move in her and through her alongside others.
About 24 years ago, my former Sunday school teacher told me about a young couple, Scott & Natalie Manke, desiring to open an urban ministry, and she thought it would be a great opportunity for me to join them. I was a single mom at the time, and I had just relocated from Florida after being away from Chicago since I was 15 years of age. I did not want to join the ministry, so I tried not to think about it.
However, God moves in mysterious ways. My son was invited to a playdate with the Manke kids, so they could connect and we could all have dinner together. After dinner, Scott and Natalie shared their vision for the urban ministry and how God was leading them to bring the gospel, The Good News, to Rogers Park. They said they needed a team of prayer warriors, and I immediately said, “Oh, I love to pray and God has answered most of the prayers that I have prayed!” With that, they asked if I could partner with them to do prayer walks. I said “yes!”
I am glad I have stuck it out all these years with God on my side. My son was able to grow up going to the center’s wonderful programs, such as the After School Program, summer camps, etc. I have also stepped up to volunteer wherever my help was needed. I have had the opportunity to share the gospel openly with many kids and to shine God’s light and love on them! It has been a blessing to be a part of a ministry that values and believes in prayer and serving the needy and the broken. My life has been richly impacted by this small non-profit/church and all its unique ways to love others and connect with them: Awana classes, small groups, food and clothing pantries, mission groups, leadership development programs (Greenhouse Residency), first responder site for migrants (during the migrant crisis in Chicago), Sunday school classes, Thanksgiving basket giveaways, and much more.
I thank God for the church. I appreciate all the people who serve and give of themselves to serve God’s people! If we have a desire to serve and be on a mission, God will open up an opportunity to glorify Him and bring glory to His name!
– Brenda Kulowiyi (Community Member)