Todd Harvey

When Todd was 18, he went to Romania and discovered how narrow his previous world view was. "God loved people in poor countries as much as He loved me. It was such an eye opening experience, I began studying the third world with the intention of becoming a missionary; learning to use the tools necessary to share Christ without imposing my culture on others." Todd learned doing God's work on earth is much broader than just seeking converts; he discovered God has a deep concern for the whole person. He realized that integrating his life with his faith must include a concern for people's physical, social, psychological, and spiritual needs.

A year later while attending UC Berkeley, his friend, Cameron Beatty, invited Todd to College Avenue. "I was impressed with the authentic love and theological and racial diversity of the people, as well as the teaching of the pastor. I was challenged to think what it means to be Christian in the 21st century." Todd remained, becoming a youth leader with Cameron. "I wanted to make a difference, to teach people about God, and thought it would be more fun with kids. I was 19 at the time, so I learned just as much from the process of preparing to teach them as they did from me."

More than a decade later, Todd is still determined to integrate his lifestyle with his faith, not as a missionary, but as an affordable housing expert for faith ministries in Berkeley. "This allows me to make enough money to live while working at something that is making a tangible difference."

Like many in today's society, Todd struggles between seeking comfort through things and leading a faith based life. "One of the tensions I wrestle with is that my faith remains central to who I am. I don't want to be merely a product of my culture. I want to be intentional about my faith. I'm trying, but I'm not sure how successful I am." Todds recent attendance to an issues of faith discussion group is evidence of his resolve to remain true to his beliefs.

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