Name: Chase Thornhill
Age: 20
Hometown: Edmond, Oklahoma
School: University of Oklahoma
Major/Minor: Religious Studies
Site/s where you have served: Wesley Rankin
Q: Why did you want to serve full-time as a PT intern?
I really saw PT as an opportunity to not only grow in my faith with a group of really strong Christians, but also to serve children who don’t have the same luxuries in their lives that I have. I felt almost that I had a responsibility to give my service to the kids.
Q: What is the most important lesson you have learned from working with underserved children/youth?
Materiality doesn’t matter. It was so awesome to see how much love and joy these kids were filled with, even though they didn’t have the material luxuries that many people have.
Q: How has PT affected your faith journey?
It has affected it tremendously by really teaching me to love and serve others, and how rewarding that can be. When I think of PT, I always think of Philippians 2:3 – “with humility, regard others as better than yourself.” PT has taught me to put others before myself and to exhibit servant leadership in everything that I do.
Q: How has your experience with PT helped you to better understand your gifts and your calling?
PT helped me to realize many of my strengths in ministry. Through the many different worship services and devotionals that I experienced with PT, I really had my eyes opened to the different types of ministries that are out there and how I can use my gifts in talents to serve others.
Q: What is your favorite part of the Project Transformation experience?
The kids! I loved working with the kids everyday and forming relationship with them. I also really like that I was able to be with the same kids all summer and almost become a part of their community.
Q: What are your future vocational plans and how has PT helped to shape or clarify those plans?
I know that I will go into some type of ministry, but I’m not sure what yet. I am thinking either teaching religion at the university/graduate school level or pastoral ministry.
Q: What have you learned from living with other young adults in such a diverse Christian community?
Patience, empathy, and forgiveness. It is very easy to get along and live with someone whom you know, like, and can relate to well. However, when one encounters people who are from different backgrounds, it is essential to put oneself in the others’ shoes to see the situation as they do. I think that this sets the tone for a better experience of community living because then one can have more patience through understanding and can show forgiveness and mercy through the frustrating times.
Q: What is the most important thing you will take away from serving through Project Transformation?
Above all else, love others. I think that when one looks at someone and realizes that they are a child of God, they can’t help but love them. Project Transformation has taught me to be uncomfortable, to grow in Christ with others, and to love others without reserve.
Q: What advice would you give to a young adult who is interested in serving as a PT intern?
Do it! It is by far the most influential experience that I have ever had.