When Shalem Canales stepped onto the campus of Campbellsville University, she not only brought with her the spiritual vibe of Ilo, Peru, but also a big dream with a purpose and hope for the future. As the daughter of a pastor, Canales grew up surrounded by love and service, a foundation that has shaped her identity and her faith, to what she is today. However, like any student who embarks on a new adventure, far from her country, she faced a mountain of emotions: excitement was mixed with fear of the unknown, but she knew how to face it with the help of her faith.
“At the beginning I had to adapt to a new country with different traditions, language, food but it was not difficult at all, that’s how I know God is with me wherever I go,” Canales said. “I knew God opened the doors for me in this country for a reason. God has never left me. He guides me.”
“My biggest dream is to do God’s will, and I don’t want to be just a follower but a disciple,” she said. “I know he will keep guiding me where he wants me to be, and I just have to be obedient, and my life depends on Him.” (Maria Pia Bustamante)
Her unwavering faith not only serves as a strength for others but has also become a beacon of inspiration for all those around her.
“My faith has been my firm foundation, having peace in the unknown was one of the most incredible things God gave me, knowing that He is in control, and He protects me,” Canales said.
Her friends often talk about how her faith has a profound impact on their lives. Audrey Dejaynes, a friend from college and her roommate, explains Canales’s courage and its impact on her life.
“She is very bold, which encouraged me to speak more about my faith,” Dejaynes said. “I think people may be more respectful towards God around her and acknowledge Him. She has explained aspects of Christianity and the Gospel to them, and so some people have understood more about God, but I think the main thing is that she brings awareness to God in people’s minds.”
This effect of Canales’ faith goes beyond words. The authentic spirit she shares with everyone fosters great connections and helps bring people around her closer together, inviting them to believe in a great way. One of her key mentors, Lori Rogers, has witnessed this firsthand.
“When I met Shalem, I immediately fell in love with her kind and compassionate spirit,” Rogers said. “She wants everyone to know that Jesus wants a relationship with them, and he is a God of love. It has been a gift from God to get to know Shalem this year.”
But Canales’s faith is not just a comfort to others in good times, it is also a great help in difficult times. Ceci Lopez recalls a painful experience when her group was in a car accident.
“Almost a year ago, we suffered a car accident,” Lopez said. “I remember that Shalem didn’t remember anything and didn’t know what was happening, but she was praying and talking to the Lord the whole time. I’m sure it was His faith that kept us all alive and well until the ambulances arrived. That had a big impact on me and inspired me to follow God.”
Canales’s boyfriend, Bryce Chatten, shares this sentiment and shares how his faith has influenced him.
“In terms of spiritual beliefs or practices, I have not changed anything,” Chatten said. “However, I will say that the Lord speaks through her to really help me, and I praise God for allowing that and know he is working through her.”
As Canales adjusts to her new life in the U.S., she remains focused on her goals.
“My biggest dream is to do God’s will, and I don’t want to be just a follower but a disciple,” she said. “I know he will keep guiding me where he wants me to be, and I just have to be obedient, and my life depends on Him.”
Her friends see a bright future for her.
“I believe that her faith will continue to grow towards the Lord and will be very strong,” Lopez said. “I want to learn to love the Lord as much as she does.”
Chatten agreed.
“I can see her doing wonderful things for the kingdom, through ministries and feeling out whatever God is leading her to do,” Chatten said.
As she reflects on the path so far, Canales is grateful for the support of her friends and mentors, and the opportunity to make a difference.
In a world that often feels uncertain, Canales’ faith stands as an example of faith, resilience and the ability to inspire those around her, even those who can read this news. Her journey is just beginning, and with her passion for God guiding her steps, it is unknown how many lives she will touch along the way, but she is certain that she can make a difference.
Canales’s journey is an experience that makes her grow, her passion for the ways of God and her unwavering faith creates moments and moves those around her. She personifies the idea that faith is not just a personal journey; it is a shared experience that can uplift people and even inspire them.
Then Jesus said to his disciples, “If you want to be my follower, you must give up your own way, take up your cross, and follow me.” Mathew 16: 24.
