Lydia Owens From South Carolina
Wayne Bray serves as the lead pastor at First Baptist Simpsonville – Upstate Church in Simpsonville, South Carolina. Bray posted the video of Lydia’s speech, now with more than 30,000 views, and shared a bit more of the family’s history.
“Lydia lost her mom just under 2 years ago, and it was an incredibly challenging time for her and the family (as well as our church),” posted Bray. “Her testimony, however, speaks to the gospel that her mom taught her to trust. My heart danced as I listened to this beautiful example of grace and truth standing in front of her classmates.”
Bray is more than the family’s pastor. He speaks of Lydia’s father as “one of my best friends in life, and truly a hero of a dad.” Bray continued, “I am proud of Lydia as her Pastor, but maybe even more so as a friend to her dad. She lives her faith and is willing to shout it for the whole world to hear.”
Executive Pastor of Operations and Lydia’s father, Brian Owens, shared on the church’s website, “Our family loves this place and all the incredible people here!” Brian continued, “I’m excited to lead at a church dedicated to authentic community, meaningful spirituality, and loving action. This is a family of faith committed to helping people make a connection with Jesus in order to change their world.”
