Wisconsin

I (Romey Carta) was baptized as an infant. I loved my church and was an active member. However, through a series of events, I began to feel my church was more about structure than faith. So as a young adult, I left.

I felt I was a strong believer and could survive without my worship community and traditions, but it proved to be more difficult than I realized. I spent the next twenty-plus years not practicing my faith—not even thinking about God or prayer. Occasionally, I thought of searching for a church I might like, but I had grown to like my two-day weekend without any church responsibilities. I would rather sleep in on Sundays.

About three years ago, I moved next door to someone who quickly became a friend. In time, my neighbor Gladys Ochs invited me to attend a weekly Bible study group. I accepted, thinking it might be an interesting academic pursuit. After all, I was not looking for a church.

When I arrived, I apologized for my lack of Bible knowledge because my church tradition didn’t engage in Bible studies. The people were kind and accepting, and I inwardly thought of coming again. To my surprise, Gladys asked if I would like to study the Bible with her. I answered “yes” to what I now believe was the Holy Spirit’s invitation.

The following Sabbath I attended the Adventist church's worship hour where a member from the study group warmly welcomed me. Later, I attended the small group study again and felt genuinely accepted, even though I asked many questions.

I really looked forward to the Bible studies. My heart was eager to learn more and Gladys patiently answered the questions I had never dared to ask. I learned about the nature of God and never felt judged by Gladys or the pastor during the Bible study group.

Gladys began talking to me about a personal relationship with Jesus. I had no idea what Gladys meant at first, but as I heard Gladys praying for me at the beginning and end of each session I began to understand God was a personal Being. I sensed God was knocking on the door of my heart, and I wanted to answer.

One night, Gladys said that I had changed. She said I seemed different—softer and warmer! The next day at work a recently returned co-worker said to me, out of the blue, “You have changed. You are softer, not so tough, and warmer,” or words to that effect. I was skeptical, so I asked a close friend if I had changed, and without missing a beat my friend replied, “Yes.” I began to believe it might be true.

By Spring, things were really happening. I attended Sabbath school and church services, and daily spent time studying the Scriptures and praying. I sensed Christ’s presence in my life. By May, I wanted to make a commitment to Christ in a public manner, and wanted Jesus to always be in my life. I asked to be baptized and my wish came true at the Wisconsin Camp Meeting in 2005. They tell me it only gets better from here on. Praise God!

Romey Carta, as told to Bruce Babienco, Lake Union Herald volunteer correspondent