Michigan

Gerald Laslett's first encounter with the Adventist lifestyle occurred when his parents, Gus and Sally Laslett, eliminated pork from their diet. Gus and Sally became Seventh-day Adventists in July 1998 and were referred to as the “no–bacon people” at family gatherings. In addition to changes in eating habits, Gerald noticed a change in his parents’ character and demeanor. They seemed happier and more at peace. Their calmness played a part in attracting Gerald to the Adventist lifestyle and a complete commitment to Jesus Christ, who he accepted as his Lord and Saviour.

In 1998 Gerald was on top of the world. He had a wife, three sons, and a secure job. From all appearances, life was good. Over the next two years, however, things soured. Nothing he did could save his marriage. His wife divorced him, leaving him hurt and reeling. Gerald turned to pleasures, seeking some comfort for the heartache and pain, which only contributed to his downward spiral and left him feeling even worse.

Through all his bad choices and resulting problems, his parents continued to be a source of love and support. Seeing how their lives had improved since their association with the church, Gerald decided to give it a try and began attending the Metropolitan Seventh-day Adventist Church in Plymouth, Michigan. He soon began Bible studies with Robert Stewart, Metropolitan's pastor. As he had hoped, Gerald began to feel better about his life. But his new hope was soon put to the test.

Things were getting complicated at his job which was “pulling him every which way.” Three days before Christmas, Gerald found himself unemployed. With no income, and feeling defeated, he reverted to his former lifestyle.

In his attempt to shed his problems and his past, Gerald moved to Florida. Robert saw what was happening in Gerald's life and called upon Metropolitan’s First Love Prayer Group .

Florida did not turn out to be all that Gerald had hoped. At times he found himself living on the streets, not knowing where he would get his next meal. He felt lost and alone, even though God was with him and working on his behalf. Eventually, Gerald began to pray. “Every time I prayed for food and shelter," he said, "God answered my prayers.” Praying for guidance about his future, Gerald saw a commercial on TV that showed a man returning to his family, and he knew he had to get back to his sons in Michigan.

When Robert heard Gerald was back in Michigan, he went to see him. Things did not look good, and once again Robert appealed to the prayer group to pray for Gerald. Through the prayer support and the continued care and nurture provided by his parents, Gerald returned to church and resumed Bible studies.

As his life began to transform, he exclaimed, “I have a lot of peace of mind, now. It’s awesome. The Lord gave me this peace. He’s done everything for me.” Gerald continued to grow stronger in his faith and was baptized on September 10, 2005.

Joy Hyde, Metropolitan Church correspondent