'I wish I'd found my way back to church sooner'

I was going through the worst years of my life and just felt drawn to the church. I don't know why - I hadn't attended church properly since I was seven.

When I first walked into Christ’s Church, Harwood, in Bolton, I didn't know anyone there and my mind was as far from peaceful as it could have been. But my mind quieted as I sat there, and I now know this was God helping my mind rest.

The following year my son and daughter were baptised at Christ’s Church, and I did the Alpha course and began Bible study to understand my faith better. I then wanted to be confirmed to feel closer to God, knowing that he provided comfort when I needed it and continues to give me comfort, strength and belonging.

I moved house last year and now attend St Mary the Virgin, Leigh, where I’m in the choir and help with Sunday school. I have started the Manchester Diocese Foundations for Ministry course this month, which I'm really excited about.

People have told me "Slow down, have some 'you' time, don't take too much on", and my response is that anything involving church and God is my ‘me time’. I’m so grateful to walk with God and thank him for guiding me to where I am today.

I pray and talk to God and feel like my prayers have been answered and I always make sure to thank him for helping me. It's hard to put into words, but I know that church is special for me and I’m meant to have a relationship with God. Not because I have to, but because I want to. I just wish I’d found my way back sooner.