006 - I Did Not Like Religious People

Today on the podcast we’re joined by Shay Daniel, who details her journey to a relationship with Christ.

Her religious experience started on the wrong foot. 

There was no communication or relationship amongst her fellow churchgoers, yet they still judged her for the color of her skin. This made her resent people she believed to be religious. 

She considered church an obligation rather than a spiritual time, and she felt no relationship with God. 

What changed?

After a difficult argument with her family while at college, Shay asked God for help.

Shortly after, she encountered a girl with a similar story. A fellow Catholic-youth with unsatisfactory church experiences, they connected over their shared history. 

One day two missionaries invited them to church, and Shay dismissed them. But Shay was eventually convinced with the promise of free food. Shay kept going, and ultimately, it became about more than the food.

She noticed a change happening as she continued to attend. However, she didn’t want to admit it to herself. 

When did she accept the change?

After a church activity one night, she noticed something on her car. She suspiciously approached her vehicle, only to be shocked by what happened - a heart attack.

Thankfully, not the medical condition. She was “heart attacked” - sticky note testimonies from all the church members were plastered over her car. This thoughtful act had a significant impact on Shay and made her ready to take the first step to try and develop a relationship with God.

She realized those people so quick to judge in her youth were just like her - wounded. 

“You’ll never hate someone if you know their story.” - Fred Rogers, one of Shay’s favorite quotes.

How did she start to develop her relationship with Jesus after that experience?

She read scripture and started praying. Most important? She was positive, hopeful, and faithful. 

Her family saw this change and saw her light. While her family is no longer religious, she hopes she can inspire change in them as well.

Ultimately, her prayer to God gave her a path to the relationship she’s always wanted, and her trials were all part of God’s plan for her.

Best way to connect? Danielchaniqua@gmail.com - she’ll certainly get back to you.

MUSIC CREDIT: Audio Jungle

(Note: This podcast is not an official podcast of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints)