I spent most of my life as an atheist yet always driven by a deep desire to care for others. For nearly five years, I served in Africa—first with the Peace Corps, then with an NGO—empowering people to improve their lives through sustainable development. Back in the U.S., I worked in human services, helping people with disabilities transition from institutions into community living with minimal support.

While there were moments of success, that success often felt hollow—lacking the depth and fulfillment I instinctively knew I was searching for.
Then one day, I walked into a church in the Chicago area. What I witnessed there completely challenged everything I thought I knew. About 30% of the congregation were ex-felons—former gang members, drug dealers, and addicts—whose lives had been radically transformed. Many were now married, raising families, and contributing to society in meaningful ways. Their stories weren’t just powerful—they were miraculous.

Seeing lives so thoroughly changed convinced me of one thing: God is real. And knowing Him transforms people in a way that nothing else can.

I became a believer. I repented and was baptized. Soon after, I founded a reentry ministry to help formerly incarcerated individuals reintegrate into their communities. In time, I was ordained as a minister with the United Pentecostal Church International.

Today, I do what I now understand I was always called to do: My wife and I founded S&S Pastoral Services to pastor, coach and counsel others and guide them toward the same miraculous transformation that only comes through a deep and personal relationship with Jesus Christ.