Student Testimony: Shay Fitzpatrick

I grew up in the church and had a strong relationship with God. My parents are believers and I’ve always considered my faith to be an integral part of who I am. However, during my high school years, my faith was shaken. My relationship with God was strained. I began doubting Him and His love for me. I often wondered “Why I was here? What was my purpose?” And because of the lack of answers to these questions, my doubt began to grow. By the time I got to college, my relationship with God was basically nonexistent. I had turned my back on God.  

Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me (Psalms 23:4) 

At the beginning of my freshman year at Louisiana Tech, my friend was approached by a Wesley intern and invited to a small group. She asked me to go along with her so she wouldn’t be alone. I only went to be a good friend and with the intention of just sitting in the back quietly. I didn’t know what small group was or who would be there. I thought that maybe it was a bible study held at the church. I didn’t know anyone or anything about the Wesley so I was extremely nervous. Little did I know that this group would become the place where my relationship with God would be reignited.

When we walked in, we were greeted with warm hugs and smiles from the girls in the group. They told us how happy they were to see us while everyone introduced themselves with short bios. They wanted to know all about us and they were so interested in everything we had to say. 

During the group, we were asked several questions. They weren’t the type of questions that I could answer quickly. I had to think. I had to sit there for a moment to dissect the question so I could fully answer it. These questions made me think about my issues from my high school years. I kept wondering “Why did I turn my back on God? He never turned his back on me.” As the group was ending we were invited to go to Fall Retreat with them and I decided that I would give the Wesley Foundation a try. 

Now I’ll be honest. I was a little skeptical about attending, but that feeling quickly faded when I arrived. Everyone was friendly and welcomed me with open arms. They wanted me to feel God’s love and I definitely did. I had an unforgettable time learning about God, meeting the people of the Wesley, and having fun. Being surrounded by so many loving people that are doing God’s work made me want to be a part of it all. 

Seeing the love of God rolling in waves off of the people at the Wesley helped me to re-establish my faith and spread the love. I want to learn as much as I can at the Wesley and keep a firm connection. They have helped me to understand that God’s love is enough. I don’t know what my purpose is. All I know is that He has a plan for me and all I need to do is trust in Him. They have guided me back to the path in the right direction. Attending the Wesley has aided in my understanding that God’s grace and mercy have kept me even when I thought He wasn’t there. Being an active member has improved my relationship with God I can’t wait to see what He has in store for me at the Wesley in my years to come. 

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life (John 3:16). 

Shay is a freshman at Louisiana Tech University studying Animal Science. She has a deep love for animals and the beach. We are grateful for Shay’s presence and we cherish her testimony!