One local organization looks to change the lives of local youth through Christianity. The Seeds of the Lord study group was born seven years ago out of regular bible studies at the Taylorville Steak 'n Shake.  Their aim is to guide youth to the religion and use it to further support them.  The group also organizes the annual Seasons of Change Festival, of which this year’s edition takes place Saturday, August 29. 

Melissa Zini and Catherine Culp help lead the group.  They say they launched it with the younger contingent of employees at the restaurant at the time, where the two of them also worked. 

Culp says practicing the faith helped her out of a spell of drug addiction, and this is why she seeks to pay it forward. 

For Zini, her experiences with Christianity have inspired her to “plant the seeds” for others, hence the name of their endeavor. 

The Seasons of Change Festival is free and open to the public, but interested attendees are encouraged to RSVP by calling (217) 481-6624.  

Catherine Culp and Melissa Zini appeared as guests on the WTIM Morning Show.