Cannot Escape
“If you live in rural Tennessee, you cannot escape religion.”
Jaymes grew up in the heart of the Bible Belt, surrounded by a conservative Christianity that often left him feeling unseen and unwelcome. His only picture of faith was one shaped by exclusion. “I didn't have any basis for what Christians were like, other than the populist Christian nationalism.”
When Jaymes arrived at UNF, he never expected to find a Christian community where he could belong. But when his friend Mary Page invited him to Queer Bible Study, curiosity drew him in. “I was very interested in a space that used the word queer and Bible in the same phrase positively.”
That first gathering was eye-opening. “These are people who are normal and like me, and they are Christians.”
For the first time, Jaymes experienced faith in a way that embraced him fully. He kept returning, week after week, to explore scripture in a safe and affirming space. “There are a lot of things you just can’t get away with talking about in a [different] setting. Any average churchgoer would say, ‘That’s really blasphemous, maybe you shouldn't be saying that.’” Here, those hard questions weren’t silenced— they were welcomed.
As his schedule opened, Jaymes began attending Food for Thought, our weekly community meal. These gatherings became another touchpoint for connection and growth. “It was so interesting to be in a group of vibrant young people who just so happened to be religious.” Sharing food, reflecting on faith, and hearing every voice at the table reminded him of the sacred power of community. “It’s nice to be able to learn and also have a social environment that is fun. I love a scheduled social event.”
What Jaymes treasures most is the sense of belonging Jacksonville Campus Ministry creates. He is especially excited about the upcoming Fall Retreat. “I’m excited to hang out with people I like in the wilderness.” And he wants others to know that anyone can find a place here. “You could just be a person who is interested in Christianity or theology.”
Your generosity makes this possible. Because of you, students like Jaymes discover that Christianity can be healing, life-giving, and deeply connected to community. You are helping create a ministry where faith and identity meet in freedom, belonging, and joy.
Thank you for making stories like Jaymes’ possible. We could not do it without you.