Searching for help finding God
Shamar's story
I had a lot of trauma growing up. I even went to therapy—it helped a little, but not enough. I was still carrying pain that nothing seemed to fix.
Then one day, I walked into a store and picked up a Bible. No one told me to. I just knew I needed help. And as I started reading God’s word, I found something that finally brought healing. I couldn’t explain it any other way—God just showed up through the Word.
It wasn’t long before I felt the need to get baptized. Not out of pressure, but because God was doing something real in my life. I had tried filling the void in my heart with everything the world offered… and none of it worked. But God did. <<LEARN MORE ABOUT BAPTISM>>
So I went online, searched “churches near me,” and Eastside was the first result. I saw that they were doing baptisms for Easter and thought, “That’s it. I’m going.”
I showed up that Sunday, not knowing anyone. Gene did his countdown, and when he said it was time, I stood up. I got baptized that day—and I haven’t looked back.
I originally came to Eastside Bellflower just to get baptized. I didn’t plan on sticking around. But the moment I walked in, Pastor Marcos greeted me so warmly. Then the whole community made me feel right at home.
Baptism A step of faith
Right after my baptism, Bellflower Youth Pastor James Griffin helped me get connected with the YOUNG ADULTS GROUP that had just started. That connection changed everything. I met so many people who helped me grow in my faith—brothers and sisters in Christ who’ve walked with me through ups and downs. And I hope I’ve been that for them too.
Eastside has truly become a space where I’ve grown in my relationship with God.
At the time, I had just graduated college with a degree I wasn’t even passionate about anymore. I didn’t know what I wanted to do with it. I was hoping college would give me a sense of fulfillment, but instead I felt confused and empty.
That sense of uncertainty—and honestly, hopelessness—was what God used to get my attention. It turns out, the longing I felt couldn’t be satisfied by achievement or a job title. Only God could fill that void.
Since then, my outlook on life has completely changed. I’m not as focused on fleeting things anymore. God has given me peace, purpose, and a new perspective. And He’s surrounded me with a community that helps keep me grounded and growing.
A first step into the unknown
After I got baptized, I joined FIRST STEP. I was a brand-new believer, and I needed guidance. First Step helped me understand where to go next in my faith—and it gave me more opportunities to connect.
To anyone hesitant about getting involved, I’d say this: there’s no pressure. But there is a loving community waiting to welcome you, walk with you, and support you as you figure it out.
Leading a JHM Small Group
I never imagined I’d be volunteering, but here I am. All glory to God.
It started small—just helping clean up after young adults gatherings. But that simple act of serving grew into something bigger. I’m now a CHANGE MAKER. I signed up to be a small group leader for both Young Adults and JHM.
FROM BAPTISM TO A GLOBAL TRIP
These experiences at Eastside have given me the courage to take an even bigger step of faith: going on a GLOBAL TRIP to the Philippines.
I leave May 22 for a trip that I know will be life-changing! We will be serving orphaned children doing some construction projects and hosting a concert to share the message of of salvation.
And It all started with one small step of faith—just like my baptism, just like joining First Step, just like showing up to Eastside in the first place.