College Journalist Finds Calling Through Faith and Storytelling

Faith Facts

• Young journalist joins Christian publication after finding spiritual renewal in Tennessee church community following his father’s death
• Ephraim Rodenbach serves as managing editor of MTSU Sidelines while interning at The Christian Chronicle
• Student from Middle Tennessee State University aims to glorify God through journalism that proclaims the Gospel

MURFREESBORO, TENN. — For young people today searching for purpose and genuine connection, one college journalist has discovered both through faith and the power of sharing God’s Word.

Ephraim Rodenbach’s journey began in the rolling hills of Pleasant Shade, Tennessee, where he joined the Bagdad Church of Christ during one of life’s darkest valleys. Following the death of his father, Stacey Rodenbach, the young man found himself welcomed into a faith community that would change his life forever.

“In a season of loss, I found a family that welcomed my mother, Tracey, and me with outstretched arms and countless illuminating smiles,” Rodenbach shared. “That fellowship helped me climb out of a hole, following the passing of someone who shaped who I am now.”

The small wooden church provided something increasingly rare in modern America — authentic Christian fellowship. Every handshake at the door, every shared moment of laughter among believers, created the kind of connection that draws people to Christ.

That experience of genuine Christian community led Rodenbach to The Christian Chronicle, where he discovered stories of faith that resonated deeply with his own journey. The publication became a regular fixture at his family’s dinner table, offering perspectives on how God’s Word impacts daily life.

Yet despite his familiarity with the Chronicle, Rodenbach nearly missed the opportunity to intern there. It took his journalism mentor from Smith County High School, Jason Robert Smith, to point him toward the opening.

Without hesitation, Rodenbach applied, hoping to spend his summer strengthening his faith through meaningful work. What followed surprised him — he became one of two summer interns selected, despite not attending Harding University, where many previous interns had studied.

Instead, Rodenbach attends Middle Tennessee State University in Murfreesboro, where he serves as managing editor of the student newspaper, MTSU Sidelines. His experience ranges from covering the university’s club hockey program to photographing campus events.

But his goal at the Chronicle goes far beyond professional development.

“My goal at the Chronicle is to tell stories that glorify God and the good work of the Gospel,” Rodenbach explained. “With this endeavor in mind, I’m blessed to learn from members of the Chronicle staff who proclaim God’s work through storytelling.”

In an age when mainstream media often dismisses or distorts Christian values, young journalists like Rodenbach represent a refreshing commitment to truth-telling grounded in faith. His story demonstrates how God works through tragedy to create new paths of purpose and service.

The young journalist reflects on how unexpected opportunities often reveal God’s greater plans. He didn’t anticipate this path, but recognizes divine guidance in every step.

“I may not have expected this opportunity, but perhaps that’s the beauty of it all,” Rodenbach said. “God often creates paths far greater than the ones we plan for ourselves.”

As he embarks on this internship, Rodenbach hopes the same connection, encouragement, and love that first drew him to the Chronicle will shine through his own work. His commitment to glorifying God through journalism stands as an example for young Christians seeking to integrate faith with professional calling.

In a generation often described as disconnected and searching, Rodenbach has found his anchor in Christ and his calling in sharing the stories of faith that build up the body of believers. His journey from grief to purpose illustrates the transforming power of Christian community and the enduring truth of Jeremiah 29:11: “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

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