Adventures of Tyler Brantley

This week marked the beginning of the Raleigh Fellows Program, and I want to start by saying thank you to everyone who has supported me on this journey.

On Tuesday morning, I headed to meet the other fellows at Apostle of Raleigh, the church hosting our program. I had moved in with my host family the afternoon before and was still getting settled. Sitting in my car outside the church, I was filled with nerves. I asked myself, “What am I doing here? This is crazy. Am I really about to do this?”

When I finally walked inside, I was greeted with a hug from Ashley, our program director. That first embrace gave me the courage to step into a room full of strangers who, in time, would become lifelong friends. Thanks to the program’s Instagram introductions, I already recognized some names and faces, but I hadn’t had the chance to connect with anyone yet.

The day was long—by the end, I was drained. We spent the morning introducing ourselves and sharing where we came from. Three of us were from Raleigh, three (including me) from Virginia, one from Florida, one from Texas, and a few others from around North Carolina. After exploring the church, we had lunch with the staff and pastors. One unique aspect for me was meeting an ordained woman pastor, something I hadn’t experienced before but found exciting. Later in the afternoon, we learned about our ministry roles. I was thrilled to find out I’ll be co-leading a small group of 6th- and 7th-grade boys with another fellow, Jacob.

By 3 p.m., after six hours of information and introductions, the fun part began. Ashley invited us to her lake house in Bracey, VA, for a four-day retreat. I was nervous again—carpooling with new people isn’t easy—but the ride turned out to be filled with conversation and even some Taylor Swift singalongs (I may not be a Swiftie yet, but I’m sure that will change by year’s end!).

The lake house was stunning, big enough to hold 25 people, and I stayed in a loft overlooking the living space. While I didn’t get much downtime there, the balcony view was incredible. Each morning, I woke up early to cook breakfast for everyone. It felt like a blessing to serve in that way and helped me start the day with purpose.

Our mornings were spent in devotionals and group discussions, while afternoons focused on reviewing program expectations. The rest of the time was pure adventure—boat rides, swimming, jet skiing, and even facing my fear of heights by jumping 15 feet into the lake.

Over those four days, I got to know my fellow peers deeply, and by the end of the retreat, I already felt like I had a strong circle of friends. It’s amazing how quickly bonds form when God is at the center. I’m excited to see how these relationships will grow over the coming months.

We wrapped up the week with a church dinner that highlighted the incredible community behind the Fellows Program—nearly 200 people working together to do God’s work. I feel truly blessed and honored to be part of it. Already, I can see God at work in my life. This week, He reminded me that while friendship often takes years to grow, when He is in the center, it can blossom in an instant.

“Thank you, Lord Jesus, for bringing me here for this new chapter in life. For the blessed opportunities you open to the doors you close. Guide me as I get into a new rhythm of life and fellowship. When trials come, help me learn from the lesson you are teaching and above all Lord, help me stay patient and clothe myself with humility towards those I work with in my day-to-day job and life. Amen”