Troy Evans shares his transformative journey in this opening lesson from a troubled youth entangled in gang activity to becoming a passionate urban church planter. Through his personal story, Evans highlights how experiences of pain and adversity can fuel a deep-seated passion for ministry within urban contexts. He invites participants to reflect on their own life stories, emphasizing the importance of understanding one's past to unlock a sincere dedication to urban church planting. This lesson sets the stage for exploring how personal transformation is not only possible but is a powerful foundation for ministry.