The Resilience of Faith: Mike Sellars’ Story of Survival

A Day Like No Other

In the small community of Starrville, Texas, Mike Sellars reflects on a day that forever changed his life. It was the morning of January 3, 2021, a day that began like any other fair-weather Sunday. As he rode his motorcycle to the Starrville Methodist Church, little did he know that he was about to encounter an event that would test his faith and resilience.

Upon arriving, Sellars walked into the fellowship hall, only to find Pastor Mark McWilliams confronting a man on the floor—the church’s moneybag clutched tightly in his grip. The scene was surreal as McWilliams screamed for help. Sellars instinctively dialed 911, unaware of the frightening sequence of events that would unfold.

Chaos and Conflict

The man in the hall, identified as Mytrez Woolen, was a fugitive who had evaded law enforcement after a dangerous car chase. What started as a robbery quickly escalated into a violent confrontation. In a shocking turn, Woolen seized McWilliams’ gun and shot the pastor four times, ending his life in a horrific instant.

Sellars, caught in the turmoil, witnessed the tragedy unfold before his eyes. As he attempted to escape, Woolen shot him twice in the chest and four more times in the back. He recalls the overwhelming pain, describing the sensation as “bee stings with hot coals piercing his body.”

A Moment of Prayer

As Sellars collapsed outside the church, his blood staining the wall, desperation led him to call out to God. He began to pray fervently, looking for a sign of divine intervention. In that critical moment, Sellars claimed to have seen a robed figure illuminated by an emerald green light, standing in the parking lot. This mysterious vision brought him peace amidst his suffering.

Sellars’ faith was profound, and he believed that the Holy Spirit was present to guide and protect him during this unimaginable experience.

The Aftermath of Trauma

Emergency responders rushed Sellars to the hospital, where he would remain unconscious for three days. When he finally regained consciousness, he learned the full extent of his injuries: two broken ribs, significant damage to his subclavian artery, and a severely injured right shoulder requiring reconstruction.

More astonishingly, doctors discovered a mass on one of his kidneys, which they suspected to be cancerous. Due to the shooting, the cancer was detected at an early stage, and the doctors were able to remove it completely. “If I hadn’t been shot, I’d have been dead,” Sellars stated, recognizing the miraculous nature of his survival.

Unwavering Faith

Sellars often shares his story, emphasizing the importance of calling upon the Holy Spirit in times of need. He believes that his survival serves a higher purpose, to convey a message of hope and divine presence. His experiences underscore the belief that genuine prayer and a sincere heart can lead to spiritual intervention in dire times.

Yet, forgiveness played a pivotal role in his journey toward healing. After the incident, Woolen was apprehended and later convicted for McWilliams’ murder. Despite his anger, Sellars chose the path of forgiveness, understanding that Woolen was battling mental health issues that impacted his actions.

Spiritual Transformation

Mike Sellars has embraced the transformation that has come with his painful journey. He believes that God has spared him for a reason, allowing him to impact others by sharing his testimony. He often encourages people to strengthen their relationship with God and to rely on their faith during tough times.

He invites those in his community to join him at Starrville Community Church, asserting that faith can guide individuals through life’s darkest moments. He holds monthly men’s breakfast gatherings, fostering a sense of community and connection among the congregation.

Life in Starrville

Today, Sellars continues to live in Starrville, reflecting on his life and experiences with gratitude. His connection to the community remains strong, underscored by a resilient spirit that refuses to be defined by past trauma. He and his son live close to one another, emphasizing family bonds and a shared commitment to their faith.

Sellars views the changes in his town and church as part of a greater plan, believing that every event—good or bad—serves a purpose. His life, marked by a tragic event, now serves as a testament to the power of faith, resilience, and the healing that can emerge from the depths of despair.