Tara Crisan Sweatt

Most St. Clair County citizens are familiar with the God is Bigger movement. On Sept. 14, 2024, they will hold their seventh annual bass fishing fundraising tournament at Pell City Lakeside Park. However, the story of how the movement started is truly inspirational.

It was founded by Rachel Shaneyfelt, a Trussville native and nurse practitioner in 2011. Shaneyfelt was diagnosed with mesothelioma, a rare form of cancer. Only around 3,000 cases reported annually nationwide. She was given a life expectancy of nine months.

As that time grew nearer, Shaneyfelt had a biopsy. Her lesion had shrunken 70%. Her doctor jokingly told her to get a T-shirt. That’s exactly what she did. The caption on the shirt was “When life gets big, God is still bigger.”

She gave these shirts to 130 of her fellow nurses. Shaneyfelt beat her diagnosis by six years — years she devoted to the movement. She passed away on Aug. 20, 2018, however, her mission lives on. Last year, 111 boats were registered.

The cost to enter the tournament is $130 per boat and that money will go to the cause. Those who give will receive much in return. Thousands of dollars worth of cash and prizes will be given away. A mere $5 donation buys a chance at a door prize.

There will also be some impressive entertainment. Shawn Dennison, popular Christian singer and song writer, will be performing. Russell Estes, best selling Christian book author, will be speaking.

To register your boat, there is a link on the God is Bigger Facebook page. Email gibmovement@gmail.com or call Stacey at 205-962-7272.

This movement was based in Christianity. But it is not solely for Christians. It is about spreading hope to those who find themselves in seemingly hopeless situations. It honors the memory of a well-deserving woman by any standards.

We all need faith, regardless of what our faith might be.