"Happiness and peace aren't free"

Steven Ocasio (right) with Rev. Richard Williams

In 2019 Steven Ocasio hit rock bottom and out of a desperate prayer came help, then a new life. Steven recently shared on Facebook the encounter with God that saved his life:

"Today I heard something that hit me deep; if you want peace you have to be ready to defend it. There are people who'll try to steal your peace, make you feel like you don't matter. I've only had that kind of peace twice in my life.

"The last time was in 2019 when I was sitting on a bench in Bridgeport - cold, homeless, wondering what I'd done wrong and where I would sleep next. I had lost everything, including myself. I remember praying, "God, what have I done?" And right then, I felt His presence. A warmth came over me, reminding me everything would be okay.

"After that, I found an AA meeting nearby. Someone there told me about Pivot Ministries. I said yes without hesitation. I had one suitcase, that's all I owned.

"For the next nine months, I worked, prayed, studied the Bible everyday, and found a new kind of peace. I met strong men who fought their demons with faith and courage.

"Pastor Richard Williams and everyone at Pivot showed me what love, grace, and mercy really are. They asked for nothing in return - just a heart open to God.

"That experience changed me. I learned that happiness and peace don't come free - they're earned and they must be protected. I thank God every day for bringing me through the dark to the light, for giving me peace after the storm and for people like Pastor Richard and the Pivot Ministries family."