Mark Darling – Story 108

I want to let you know what a huge impact you and The Rock have had on my life. Growing up, I attended church with my family at a large place devoted to evangelism. While that is a great goal, I remember getting frustrated throughout my young years as a Christian that I had heard how to accept Christ hundreds of times, but nobody reached out to mentor me or help me grow… more typically, they forgot who I was every week. After that, we went to a small church that was very traditional and I felt stifled. Throughout college, I visited various churches, but never felt like I belonged to any place and ended up discouraged and disillusioned with being a part of a church. Visiting The Rock the first week, I quickly felt at home and knew it was where I belonged. I felt energized worshipping and could see the fire for God in the hearts of the people there. The following weeks, the pastors and the people not only remembered me but actively drew me into their family. It is the first place I’ve been where the church is a family and not a building. I have never felt care and a genuine excitement for the Lord like I experience from the people within The Rock’s community. I want to thank you, Mark, for being a pastor with an undeniable passion for Christ, a heart overflowing with love, and a dedication to caring for every member of your flock. Mark, you have been there for me when I am unsure of where to go when I have been hurting and lost, and in need of life-experience and guidance. You have taken the time to pray for me, and ask how I am doing every week, despite how busy you are and how many people you want to attend. I have every confidence that you will always make time for a person in need. I have never seen a church leader so dedicated to each individual member before, and I want you to know that the community notices and it makes a difference. Your flock follows your example, and they have made an incredible impact on my life, inspiring me to go deeper into Christ and cling to Him at all times. You are cherished, thank you for all you do!

Shared by ML