HOLY CITY

written by Sophie deMaine

​“But that is not the way you learned Christ!- assuming that you have heard about him and were taught in him, as the truth is in Jesus, to put off your old self, which belongs to your former manager of life and is corrupt through deceitful desires, and to be renewed in the spirit of your minds, and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness” Ephesians 4:20-24
 
Hi! My name is Sophie deMaine, and I have been so blessed to spend a summer working at Charleston Youth Mission. I’m a South Carolina native and was no stranger to Charleston before this summer, but I’ve loved spending more time getting to know this city and her people throughout the summer.
            Charleston is often referred to as the “Holy City”. This is because of its overwhelming number of churches and because of the diversity of religious traditions present within those churches. When it was founded in 1670, the city made a law that prohibited buildings from being constructed taller than any church steeples. Most would say that these laws were made to keep God at the center of life in the city. While this is true, it is difficult to ignore the fact that at the same time these laws were being created, 40% of all of the people who were enslaved in America were arriving at Gadsden's Wharf, just a few blocks from the city’s center. Charleston has a complex and nuanced history, one that is often overlooked in favor of promoting tourism and an ideal of a beautiful, polished South.
            The staff at CYM often struggle to balance these two seemingly opposing sides of Charleston, particularly when we are faced with the immense need in this city. It can often feel like the city government is complacent, or even malicious, when it comes to the overwhelming need of the vulnerable and impoverished in Charleston. Because of this, doing work in this city can feel like a losing battle when faced with a lack of support from the government. I have certainly questioned the nickname of the “Holy City”, as a city that actively works to push God’s people out feels anything but holy.
            It wasn’t until recently that I began to understand the name in a new light. Having the opportunity to work with new youth each week lends itself to new conversations each week. These youth, many of whom have never been to Charleston before, are so excited to spend time working and learning in a new place. They come with fresh eyes and eager hearts, bringing new life to this old city. It is such a joy to watch them participate in the good work the agencies we partner with are doing in the Lowcountry. They are able to work at different worksites each day, meet different people each day, and grow in their understanding of the calling each of us has from the Lord. These youth, through their willingness to engage in tough conversations, are able to see God in unexpected places, from North Charleston to Wadmalaw Island. They find the transformational power of Christ’s redeeming love at work no matter where we go, and do not fail to recognize it.
            It is through this work and these conversations that have formed a different picture of Charleston in my heart. It may not be the perfect city. There is certainly more work to be done. But I rest easy knowing that the people I have met this summer are dedicated to casting off their old selves and donning their new ones. Just as we are redeemed only by the blood of Christ, only the work of Christ can renew what has been broken. Through the work of the youth, agencies, and the Lord Almighty, the Holy City is putting on a new self, created in true righteousness and holiness.