He had an unbelievable spiritual journey. 

This week, Republican vice presidential candidate, U.S. Senator J.D. Vance of Ohio, shared his personal faith journey with conservative Christian audiences, illustrating his transition from atheism to devout Christianity.

In a speech delivered at a breakfast event organized by the Faith & Freedom Coalition during the Republican National Convention, Vance, 39, reflected on his religious upbringing in Ohio. He recalled his formative years, including being raised predominantly by his grandmother, a committed Christian who prayed and read the Bible daily but attended church infrequently. Vance admitted that his faith felt somewhat superficial during his youth, and like many young people, his religious beliefs faded over time.

Vance described his path through the military, college, and law school, noting that his initial faith diminished, leading him to identify as an atheist. He recognized a certain arrogance in his atheism, feeling he was more knowledgeable than his grandmother.

His faith journey took a significant turn when he married Usha Chilukuri Vance, a Hindu whom he met at Yale Law School, and they wed in 2014. Vance said that reflecting on his responsibilities as a husband and father led him to reconsider the wisdom of the Christian faith he had previously disregarded.

After the birth of his first child in 2017, Vance began attending church regularly. He shared that his wife observed how embracing Christianity positively affected his patience and forgiveness, particularly in family life. Vance realized this insight was an expression of “grace,” something he believed unfolds gradually rather than instantly.

In 2019, Vance converted to Roman Catholicism, mentioning in a prior interview with The American Conservative that he had never felt strongly attached to any particular denomination growing up. He expressed joy in being part of a faith community, enjoying the experience of taking his children to church and discussing faith with them.

Vance concluded his remarks with a reference to the film “Pulp Fiction,” quoting Samuel L. Jackson’s character, Jules, who reflects on miracles. Vance emphasized his belief in recognizing small miracles in everyday life, asserting that seeing these miracles requires an attentive heart.

On Monday, former President Trump announced Vance as his vice presidential running mate on Truth Social, praising his military service, academic achievements, and successful career. Trump highlighted Vance’s commitment to advocating for American workers and farmers in key states.

Vance accepted the nomination, stating at the Republican National Convention that he views Trump as America’s “last best hope” to restore what may be irretrievably lost if not reclaimed.

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