Mark Tully - “You Just Can’t Get Close Enough To Christ” Mark Tully, a Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) member posted in Gagetown, New Brunswick, shares his personal testimony of coming to faith in Christ, his family life, and how his Christian faith influences his military career and daily life. Background and Personal Life Mark grew up in a small Ontario town, joined the military right after high school in 2009, and has been posted in Gagetown ever since (hoping to retire there). He serves in the armored corps but currently works in a transition unit, assisting medically releasing CAF members with their shift to civilian life. He is married to Kelsey, has a blended family (including adult children from a previous marriage—one daughter in Ontario, a son in the Navy, and a daughter nearby—plus younger children at home), and emphasizes family prayer and modeling faith for his kids. Coming to Faith Mark's journey began subtly in public school, where he received a small red Bible (Psalms and New Testament) that he kept despite peers discarding theirs—it's still on his nightstand today. During a difficult separation, custody battle, and financial struggles, he turned to it sporadically but didn't fully engage. A turning point came while working part-time for a Christian farmer who quoted Scripture and offered support. Later, meeting his future father-in-law (a devout Christian) was pivotal—the gentle, non-pushy sharing of Jesus' impact stood out. This led Mark and Kelsey to explore church; they joined Oromocto Baptist Church where they've attended for about 12–13 years under Pastor Perry. Staying Close to Christ Mark maintains closeness through daily Bible reading (as much as possible), prayer, community involvement, and listening for God's presence. He admits challenges and "knocks" pull him away at times, but returning involves intentional looking/listening—Christ is always there. He stresses Christian community for mutual support, accountability, and encouragement during trials. Family practices include bedtime prayers (e.g., comforting a scared child), mealtime thanks, and prioritizing visible faith to lead by example. Experiences of God's Action - As a non-believer in high school, his mother nearly died from an unknown condition; doctors predicted no recovery or vegetative state. A pastor prayed for her healing, and she survived with quality of life (despite some ongoing issues)—a clear miracle that planted seeds. - During ongoing pain from not seeing his daughter (due to custody issues, over 12 years), a timely sermon brought overwhelming peace, joy, and comfort—like a "warm hug"—amid despair. Being a Christian in the CAF Mark sees few major tensions personally; faith discussions are generally acceptable if not forced. He keeps a Bible on his desk as a conversation starter, participates in the Sentinel program (peer support), and shares faith through testimony, Scripture, compassion, and non-judgmental listening—balancing military discipline with love. Leadership shifted post-conversion: from authority-focused to servant-leadership (inspired by Christ), humility, and self-checking intentions. He once aspired to be a chaplain but realized God wanted him "in the mud with the troops" for greater impact—leading to more opportunities to share Christ. Recent examples include a former subordinate expressing growing belief after years of Mark's influence, and placing transitioning members in church jobs (e.g., audio roles) as entry points. He notes more Christians emerging in the CAF (e.g., a growing Tuesday Bible study/prayer group in Gagetown), especially as life's hardships highlight the need for Jesus. Closing Thought The title captures his core message: "You just can't get close enough to Christ."
