Kai’s Journey: From Doubt to Faith

Story by Tamyra Horst

From a young age, Kai Nicholson attended church with his dad and stepmom. However, he struggled to find a personal connection with God. The idea of faith seemed distant, and he wrestled with doubts about God's existence. Easily distracted by media and uninterested in spiritual matters, Nicholson’s heart remained closed to the things of God.

When the COVID-19 pandemic struck, his connection to church weakened even further. Like many others, he became isolated, and his already fragile spiritual life faded into the background.

In 2023, Nicholson’s life took an unexpected turn. His family was visiting a sick aunt near Pennsylvania Conference’s camp meeting when they decided to attend a sermon by Doug Batchelor, president of Amazing Facts. Nicholson, uninterested but compliant, tagged along.

During the visit, his family took a tour of Blue Mountain Academy (BMA). Nicholson had no interest in attending school there; he planned to return to public school and stay with his friends. However, his family believed BMA would be the right environment he needed and decided to enroll him.

Nicholson’s transition to BMA was far from smooth. Initially, he openly expressed his doubts about God, challenging his teachers and classmates with difficult questions. He struggled to see evidence of God’s existence and found it hard to embrace a personal relationship with Him.

Then, something changed. Sick in his dorm room one day, Nicholson noticed his Bible sitting nearby, something prompted him to pick it up and read. That simple act set off a chain reaction.

Encouraged by fellow students and spiritual mentors like David DeSouza, his resident assistant, and Stephen Morgan, a former student, Nicholson began to take small steps toward faith. He discovered familiar Bible verses his family had once taught him, and he accepted a challenge to wake up early to pray, study the Bible and exercise.

As he committed to this new routine, his perspective changed. His doubts began to fade, replaced by a growing faith and a deepening relationship with God. The more he studied and prayed, the more he felt a transformation within himself.

“His life has never been the same,” shares Adam Bially, BMA chaplain. “Kai’s journey from doubting to faith did more than change his life; it made him a source of encouragement for others. Now, he serves as a class pastor, someone his fellow students seek for prayer, guidance and spiritual support. The teen who once questioned God’s presence now leads others closer to Him.”

At BMA, students like Nicholson experience more than just a strong academic program—they find purpose, community and a deeper relationship with God. If you or someone you know is searching for a place to grow spiritually, academically and personally, BMA may be the life-changing experience you’ve been looking for. Come and see what God can do in your life! Learn more at bma.us.