This post is part of the Uncommon Saints series hosted at Bakos Project that features inspiring works and sermons by LGBTQ followers of Christ who encourage us in the Christian faith.
I first met Pastor Candace Hardnett about four or five years ago through ministry connections, and I was immediately struck by her deep passion for Christ. Pastor Candace was born and raised in a small Virginia town. After serving in the Marines, she planted a church called Agape Empowerment Ministries, which she has served for the past fourteen years. She also started a podcast called Godly and Gay. In 2021, she created a popular TikTok channel that uses humor to challenge prejudice against LGBTQ people. Pastor Candace and her wife, Erika, have three daughters and live in Savannah, Georgia.
Trust me, you do not want to miss this encouraging word from Pastor Candace. Click on the video below to listen to her sermon entitled, “I’m Still Standing.” She starts preaching about the 15 min 24 second mark. But, I encourage you to enjoy the worship from the beginning (opening prayer and singing). It will encourage your heart as well. If the challenges of life have you down, the Holy Spirit can lift you up.