Jose Briones – Loveland, Colorado … Max, a junior at Campion Academy in Loveland, Colorado, shared his compelling journey of faith and self-discovery, deeply intertwined with the Campion’s legacy. Coming from a family with strong ties to Campion, Max’s experience at the historic institution has been life changing.
“My uncles and grandparents came here, and they made it possible for me to also do it,” Max says, highlighting the generational connection. The supportive Christian environment at Campion became fertile ground for Max’s spiritual growth. One significant turning point was during the Week of Worship, previously known as the Week of Prayer.
It was here that Max encountered Wayne Morrison, pastor of the Brighton Seventh-day Adventist Church in Brighton, Colorado, whose message profoundly impacted him. “I had never felt the love of God before,” Max recalls. As an atheist, Max experienced a pivotal moment when he felt a tangible presence urging him to speak with Morrison, marking the beginning of his commitment to God and revealing a new side of faith and the church.
Encouraged by his uncle, Max embarked on reading the entire Bible, which solidified his belief in God’s existence, although developing a personal relationship took time. The dormitory life at Campion further nurtured his growth, providing a close-knit community with worship and fellowship as daily staples.
Reflecting on his journey, Max credits Campion Academy with the most significant impact on his life. “Without Campion, I wouldn’t be a Christian. I wouldn’t believe in God,” he asserts. The academy has equipped him with morals and values, enabling him to treat others with kindness and respect.
Max’s story personifies the power of faith and community at Campion Academy, shaping him into a person who now embodies the principles he once questioned. Watch Max’s story below.
—Jose Briones is lead pastor at the Fairplay Seventh-day Adventist Church and is the RMC Stewardship Promotion and Content creator. Photo capture from RMC’s “Always Faithful” video series.
