A transformation from French atheism to evangelical Christian theology is rare. This is one such story, a testament to a personal revolution of faith. Raised in a Catholic family near Paris, religious observance felt more like tradition than genuine belief. Early on, a rejection of faith led to a pursuit of personal happiness: academic success, musical talent, athletic achievement, and a career in computer science. Life was fulfilling, especially with the added validation of athletic prowess in a national volleyball league. In a thoroughly secular French culture, encountering the gospel seemed improbable.
A chance encounter during a Caribbean vacation with two American women, one of whom was a Christian, sparked an unexpected turn. Intrigued, a long-distance relationship began, fueled by a determination to dismantle his girlfriend’s beliefs. This led to an examination of his own atheism, prompting a search for evidence supporting or refuting the existence of God. A prayer, offered more as a challenge than genuine supplication, marked the beginning of a profound shift.
A persistent shoulder injury sidelined his volleyball career, opening up Sundays for an experiment: visiting an evangelical church in Paris. Initially driven by curiosity and a sense of anthropological observation, the experience culminated in a powerful internal prompting to understand the Christian faith. A conversation with the pastor, spanning several weeks, initiated a rigorous exploration of Christianity. Unbelieving prayers evolved into earnest pleas for clarity.
God’s response was not a grand spectacle but a profound awakening of conscience. A past misdeed, long suppressed, resurfaced, bringing intense guilt and a realization of the need for forgiveness. This led to a transformative understanding of Jesus’ sacrifice: a substitutionary atonement for sin. Embracing this truth, faith in Jesus brought forgiveness and a new life direction. Moving to New York to be with his girlfriend, the relationship ultimately ended. However, this new environment fostered a deep dive into studying faith.
This newfound passion led to seminary, a master’s degree in New Testament studies, marriage, a family, and pursuit of a PhD in philosophical theology. This journey underscores the unexpected nature of grace, a divine initiative that transforms lives. It’s a story of encountering God’s love, not through seeking, but through being found. It exemplifies the power of the gospel: a message of undeserved grace and salvation through faith, not works. It’s a testament to a French atheist’s transformation into a Christian theologian, a living example of “Today In French,” a story of faith unfolding in contemporary times.
