Rafael José Silvestre, 23, was an atheist since the age of 17. He came to this decision because of several questions that arose in his mind, the main ones being: why does God allow so much evil to happen in the world? How could one God more compelling than another?

“Certain actions taken by Catholics caused me much confusion and so did the bad examples I witnessed from a so-called Christian whose life was the complete opposite of what he claimed to believe. His behavior wasn’t like what I read in the Bible, because although I was an atheist and I didn’t believe in the Bible, I still read it searching to justify my disbelief. My friends and I had the same views on the subject and although many had their doubts they eventually converted to atheism after I influenced them with my reasoning.

The idea I had of the Universal Church of the Kingdom of God was based solely on what I heard about them on the news. I never took time to investigate what I was hearing. I admit that was one of the biggest mistakes I’ve ever made. One of the thoughts I mentioned earlier that came to mind was of the “scandals” that were always appearing on TV against the church regarding money, tithes and offerings, what the congregants gave and this money was put to use .

About two and a half months ago I was invited by a dear friend to come to the UCKG. I was the type of person that had to “see to believe” and so I came to understand how someone could be possessed by evil spirits after witnessing my friend manifest. And that’s when I began questioning my stand on atheism. Was everything that I was so sure about, the power of reasoning, really the only thing that exists?

I decided to continue going to church to support my friend in her deliverance. During the meetings, I continued seeing how she would manifest with evil spirits and how she would become normal again after the bishop used his authority through prayer to deliver her. I felt some strange things happen to me as well, like: discomfort, shaking and pressure on my body as if something was pulling me down. Seeing how the bishop had all this authority over those evil forces challenged everything I believed in. I wanted to understand where that power was coming from. Doubts filled my mind. I spoke with one of the members of the Church and he suggested that I put God to test by tithing. I gave my tithe, put God to test and got an answer, it was amazing. Since then, I began seeking God, the bishop and the pastor for help. I also began reading the Bible to clarify my doubts and for the first time, I found answers.

During one of the worship meetings my attention was drawn to the fact that it’s necessary to bury our sinful past and give birth to a new life. I finally understood that I’m human and a sinner and I was able to repent and find forgiveness in Jesus. I decided to place my life in God’s hands and accept Jesus Christ as my Lord. I was baptized in water and through Him, I’m able find the strength to fight against my will.

Today, I participated of the Lord’s Supper for the first time and it was really special. I was able to take part of the body and blood of Christ. To me, this is experimenting with my faith. It’s not something palpable or found in a material form. I believe that through these elements (the bread and wine) I’m in communion with the Body of Christ.

Everything is now clear to me. I understand the value of a true sacrifice. It’s not in the sacrifice itself; there’s so much more behind what really pleases God and being able to let go of the materialism and rely solely on God is what shows our true faith. The formula for a miracle is: give your life to God and fully trust in Him, without doubting.

I have a thirst for the Holy Spirit to fill me completely. I fight every day to conquer and I will, because today I believe!”