Take courage today, Christian. Our God still saves. The Gospel is still good news—regardless of what is going on around us—which is why Port City Church exists; to help others encounter Jesus and follow in His way.  We have seen the Lord do incredible things in the lives of people through the Good News of Jesus Christ. 

This past Sunday, we had the opportunity to witness the baptism of Brandon Kelvey. It was a wonderful time together celebrating with Brandon as he professed outwardly what Jesus has done inwardly. We’ve asked Brandon if we could post his testimony here for you to read it. Let it encourage you in encountering Jesus and following His way…

My name is Brandon Kelvey. I am 30 years old and grew up in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia. I have a 4 year old pup named Charli and I’m the oldest of three siblings. I’m also a physiotherapist and a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt. Most importantly, I’m a follower of Jesus Christ.

The first time I remember praying was sometime in elementary school. I didn’t grow up in a Christian household, so I’m not sure where this habit came from, but I remember I did it with a sense of “better safe than sorry”. This continued every night for many years, usually directed to the well-being of my friends and family. Perhaps this stemmed back to my brief time attending an Anglican church as a small boy.

After completing my master’s degree in 2019, I became acutely aware of the self-sabotaging nature of humans and began to take my spiritual health more seriously. I explored Buddhism, Stoicism, Hinduism, fasting, and various other practices in search of peace and fulfilment. No matter where I looked, I couldn’t satisfy myself with a definitive path forward.

In trying to figure things out, I caused harm to myself and to the people around me. I prioritized my desires, dishonored my parents, and lied for personal gain. I often justified my actions were “good” with my own twisted logic. It’s no surprise that my life was riddled with anxiety and uncertainty.

I ultimately had to learn the hard way what Jesus had taught us so bluntly: “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me” (John 14:6)

On January 1st, 2023, I watched my first sermon, which centered on the words of the prophet Ezekiel: “I will give you a new heart, and a new spirit I will put within you. And I will remove the heart of stone from your flesh and give you a heart of flesh” (Ezekiel 36:26). The words of that sermon rang true in my soul. I saw glimpses of Truth that my previous spiritual pursuits had tried to convey but failed to deliver on. 

After this, I was so curious and needed to know more. Using podcasts, books, church, scripture and prayer, I had an insatiable desire to be closer to Jesus. Before I knew it, I was completely sold on the Good News and peace that our Lord assures us of, “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28).

Much has changed since that New Year’s Day just over 19 months ago. My anxiety has significantly lessened (I quit a 30-year nail-biting habit). My relationship with alcohol is better. My family relationships have improved. I have more supportive friends and am better at supporting them in return. My confidence and focus as a therapist is greater. I’m more generous in sharing my skills and finances.

However, let there be no mistake, these changes aren’t by my own strength but by the grace of God. Believe me - I tried everything I could “be better”, but true transformation only began when I surrendered to Him. Through this journey, I’ve learned the importance of humility, gratitude, honesty, and integrity.

The Lord knows I’m far from perfect, but I am committed to bearing my cross and walking with Christ daily. I’m eager to keep growing in faith and to see how God will continue to use me. 

As for today, it is my absolute pleasure to obey His command and be baptized in the presence of Port City Church.

God bless you all!

Brandon Kelvey