KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WVLT) - In April of 2009, 12 people sat down to listen to Pastor Bobby Williams. At the time, he and the other members had no idea how valuable the Ridge Community Church would be to some people in Oak Ridge.

In the first part of our series, "Solace in Hard Times", we show you how during hard times, some East Tennesseans are turning to spirituality to find strength.

"We decided to start a church here, led by God, to see those people who are far from God, be awakened to life."

The Ridge Community Church couldn't have come at a better time.
Pastor Bobby Williams says as the economy died, the congregation grew.

"I think that a lot of people will turn to God and spirituality and church when the economy seems to go bad," says Williams.

Like many people, church members were losing jobs and losing hope.

"We've had people say things to the manor of I don't know how I'm going to get through this, but I know on the other side of this God is going to give greater glory," says Williams.

As a graphic designer for a real estate agency, when the housing market took a hit, Melissa Hill was laid off. Her daughter was just 3 months old.

"I've come through times in my life where I've seen God help me before."

So she turned to him again as her family began making tough sacrifices.

"It's not a guarantee that you're going to have an easy life just because you believe in God, but he's still good, even in the hard times, he still gives me hope."

Melissa can't find work, but stays positive because she gets to spend time with her daughter.

"Even at your poorest or lowest moment, you're still blessed."

"Sometimes, God will allow us to get to our very lowest point, only so he can bring us back up," says Williams, who preaches this message, each Sunday.

For more information on the Ridge Community Church, click on the link below.

Wednesday night at 11:00, two former Goody's employees turn to their faith to start a new chapter in their lives.