From a young age, I attended the Universal Church with my family in Portugal, but I never really committed to God. As a teenager, I fell in with the wrong crowd, drinking and sleeping around. Eventually, I stopped going to church altogether.
I became consumed by worldly pleasures, staying out late and worrying my mum, who would pray for me. As the older son, she always reminded me to set a good example for my younger brothers, but I didn’t. I often left them at home while I went out, which angered her. Drinking became a daily habit, and I’d stay out until I was sober enough to go home. I also became a womaniser, pursuing any girl, regardless of their relationships.
My mum worked as an assistant who helped at the church, and sometimes I’d return from parties just as she was leaving in her uniform. I cared more about fitting in with my friends than anything else. When I didn’t have enough money, I’d steal from her purse and later from shops. It’s embarrassing to think about now, but I was blinded by peer pressure. I became a troublemaker, and the police were often involved. I had friends from the UK who would come to Portugal on holidays and they seemed to have it all, and I wanted that too, so I moved there. I continued my old lifestyle, but soon felt something was missing. I decided to revisit the Universal Church, and gradually, things began to change.
It wasn’t immediate, but over time, I found the things I once enjoyed now made me uncomfortable. I focused on the services, reflected on the Word of God, and let go of negative habits.
It was the best decision I could have made, as now I know that God is with me, and having His presence changed my life. This was truly a life shift for me. Today, I understand my purpose in life. I’m free from those old ways, I’m happy and helping others going through the same struggles I faced. I also have a blessed relationship with my family, and my mum’s prayers that her older son would be a good example have been answered.” – Lucas Costa