Once an Atheist, Now Hearing the Gospel

When Kyle first walked through our doors last year, he didn’t believe in God. In fact, he would have called himself an atheist. Faith wasn’t something he was interested in, and he made it clear he didn’t want anything to do with that part of what we offered. Still, he kept showing up to drop in, drawn by the relationships, the safe space, and the sense of belonging he found here.

Sometimes showing up is the first step.

Last summer, Kyle made a decision that surprised even us; he chose to come to camp. It was one of the first times he intentionally put himself in a space where he could hear about God. At camp, Kyle listened, asked questions, and engaged in conversations about faith in a way he never had before.

When the school year started, Kyle kept coming.

Every Tuesday, he showed up to Club, our weekly gathering to explore the messages of the Gospel. Not only did he show up consistently, but he started bringing his younger brother with him.

Week after week, both boys were present.

Through our partnership with Crossroads Church, we created an extended opportunity for students to stay connected beyond our drop-in center. “Bridging the Gap” meets on Wednesday nights to provide meals, community, and a connection to a local church youth group.

Now Kyle and his brother are there too.

Two young men who once identified as atheists are now choosing, on their own, to spend both Tuesday and Wednesday nights in spaces where they hear the Gospel, build relationships, and experience consistent care from adults who believe in them.

Stories like Kyle’s remind us that transformation doesn’t always happen overnight. It often starts with something simple, like showing up to a place where you feel seen and valued.

Because of your support, students like Kyle have a space where they can belong before they believe… and a community that walks with them every step of the way.

Stephanie Delvalle

Central Kitsap Area Director