The Day David Stood Up to the Giant

Standing at the edge of the iconic Red Cliffs above St. George, Utah, I paused to breathe deeply, reflecting on the significance of the moment unfolding before me. My name is Craig Rogers, and today marked a pivotal shift—today, I am honored to introduce Preston Allen, a remarkable young man whom God has uniquely positioned to face the towering Goliath dominating our beloved Great Basin Region. Preston isn't just another leader; he is a true David, anointed by God, destined to lead with humility, compassion, and unshakable faith. In all my years, I've rarely encountered someone as genuine, brilliant, and selflessly loving as Preston.

"And He summoned the crowd with His disciples, and said to them, “If anyone wishes to come after Me, he must deny himself, and take up his cross and follow Me. For whoever wishes to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake and the gospel’s will save it." Mark 8:34-35

Preston Allen, a young Christian entrepreneur in his mid-twenties, embodies a beautiful paradox. Quiet yet powerful, humble yet profoundly impactful, his very life quietly declares the love of Christ louder than any words. He and I make for quite the "odd couple." Preston is a thoughtful, reserved African-American who naturally puts others before himself, while I'm a bold, vocal 64-year-old with roots tracing back to the United Kingdom. Yet, despite these outward contrasts, the similarities we share run deeper than our differences—both of us have known firsthand the pain of religious skepticism, spiritual manipulation, and systemic shame.

“Then David said to the Philistine, ‘You come to me with a sword, a spear, and a javelin, but I come to you in the name of the LORD of hosts...’” 1 Samuel 17:45

Preston, raised within the Mormon tradition in Utah, and myself, a former Catholic from California, have both witnessed the trauma and pain inflicted by religious institutions marred by abuse and secrecy. These experiences have uniquely equipped us to confront injustice with empathy, wisdom, and relentless determination.

Preston and I have made many mistakes, countless to number. God’s Grace shines through our weaknesses, and there are many. I see Preston as a trophy of God’s Grace. Watch out world, here comes God’s absolute goodness.

"But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you," Matthew 5:44

Together, Preston and I have weathered fierce storms, endured mockery, the pain of lost friendships, and strained family relationships—because we’ve failed many times. And, we’ve had to endure hardship because, driven by our mistakes, we chose to seek God’s Mercy and stand unwavering in our faith in King Jesus.

By God's Grace alone, every trial Preston and I faced strengthened our resolve and sharpened our vision. The fiery furnace of adversity has forged a bond between Preston and me, a bond rooted in mutual respect, profound spiritual growth, and a shared passion for harnessing the transformative potential of Web 3.0 technology. Our journey through these hardships has made us living testimonies of God's abundant Grace. As I disciple and mentor Preston through THE Grace Awakening, we have both learned to truly live within the boundless Grace of our Heavenly Father, resting fully in His love, soaking in His truth, and awaiting His divine commissioning.

Now, standing shoulder-to-shoulder, we sense clearly that God has orchestrated our partnership to accomplish something extraordinary—something impossible by human standards. Today is just the beginning of a divine mission, a journey toward dismantling long-standing injustices and igniting a revival unlike any the Great Basin Region has ever witnessed.

It is time for the Giant to fall.

"But God, being rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in our transgressions, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved), and raised us up with Him, and seated us with Him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, so that in the ages to come He might show the surpassing riches of His grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not as a result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them." Ephesians 2:4-10

Defining One of Many Issues Plaguing the Great Basin Region

It is my privilege to introduce the real Preston Allen, an extraordinary young man positioned by God to confront an intimidating giant—an entrenched Goliath dominating our beloved Great Basin Region. This Goliath is not merely an individual or institution; it represents decades of deeply rooted discrimination, spiritual oppression, and systemic injustice perpetuated by powerful religious and societal forces. Preston is not just another emerging leader; he is a modern-day David, called, equipped, and destined by God to face and conquer many giants with courage, humility, and unshakable faith.

"After you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace, who called you to His eternal glory in Christ, will Himself perfect, confirm, strengthen and establish you." Titus 2:13

This first article in a three-part blog series serves as a clarion call, setting the stage for a profound spiritual and social revival. It begins by clearly identifying our adversary—the systemic religious discrimination and manipulation embedded deeply in the fabric of our communities, primarily perpetuated by the dominance of the LDS Church, which includes their exclusive seminary programs adjacent to public schools.

Preston and I believe this giant must fall, not through violence or hostility, but through strategic, relentless acts of radical love, transparency, unity, and spiritual awakening. As a former tithing member of the LDS Church, Preston Allen stands uniquely prepared and anointed to lead this charge. His quiet strength, profound intellect, and selfless love embody the very qualities needed to mobilize hearts and minds toward lasting transformation.

"But you are a chosen race , a royal priesthood , a holy nation , a people for God’s own possession , so that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light;" 1 Peter 2:9

For this article series, we will highlight the LDS seminary system as a critical giant to be addressed because, in the Great Basin Region, the LDS Church's growth primarily relies on the birth of children into LDS families. These children are systematically indoctrinated through the Seminary program, a process deeply intertwined with the schools, school districts, city governments, banks, land developers, and contractors—all collectively benefiting from this arrangement. This partnership between religious and civic entities fosters economic and political dominance for the LDS Church and perpetuates its power throughout the region. The severity of this situation parallels living as a Christian in Iran, where the religious authority controls every aspect of society. Preston and I, like courageous believers in such oppressive environments, stand committed to rescuing these children and ending this profound injustice.

Historically, the LDS Church leadership meticulously crafted and maintained significant influence over local and state politics, embedding discriminatory practices deeply within Utah's educational and social systems. Over the years, these practices evolved into normalized aspects of daily life, rarely contested publicly due to fear of community backlash and social isolation. This influence not only shaped educational policies but also perpetuated a culture of conformity and silence, making any resistance appear futile.

These LDS-exclusive seminaries became powerful, visible markers of division, subtly enforcing a hierarchy within schools. Non-LDS students, excluded from these programs, constantly face implicit messages of inferiority and otherness. This persistent exclusion fosters feelings of isolation, institutionally diminishes their sense of self-worth, and limits their educational and social opportunities. By institutionalizing these disparities, the system quietly communicated that LDS beliefs and practices held superior status and official endorsement, leaving non-LDS students feeling marginalized and unheard.

"Therefore I urge you, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service of worship. 2And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect." Romans 12:1-2

I relocated from California to Utah in 1997, and quickly became aware of this entrenched discrimination. Up to that point, my profession involved trauma recovery. I worked with several companies bridging the private and public domain in the mental health industry, fulfilling service contracts for the State of California and dozens of Northern California Counties. Coming from a diverse environment where religious freedom was openly respected and enforced, I was deeply troubled by the systemic injustice in Utah. I raised five children in Utah, so I witnessed firsthand the emotional and social damage caused by LDS seminaries. This personal experience fueled my determination to take action, ultimately leading to the founding of KINGDOM Empowered.

I am now a 64-year-old retiree turned full-time Minister of the Gospel of Jesus Christ with lots of time on my hands. Plus, what makes me unique, with Preston, I have an extensive background in the entrepreneurial use of Web 3.0 and blockchain technology. Preston and I originally met five years ago through an ambitious blockchain project that failed miserably. Despite our significant age gap and our mutually shared defeat, God used the experience to forge a powerful synergy based on our mutual passion for provocative leadership, innovation, and genuine care for people. We, Preston and I, were born to disrupt, and DISRUPT WE SHALL.

"And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose. For those whom He foreknew, He also predestined to become conformed to the image of His Son, so that He would be the firstborn among many brethren; and these whom He predestined, He also called; and these whom He called, He also justified; and these whom He justified, He also glorified." Romans 8:28-30

Preston Allen, a charismatic 28-year-old African-American entrepreneur from St. George, Utah, represents the next generation of leadership in the Great Basin Region. Raised by LDS mixed-race parents, Preston has personally experienced intense racial and religious discrimination. He lived it… he still lives it. Yet, these hardships only strengthened his resolve and compassion, driving him to establish two nonprofits focused on youth empowerment. When Preston’s enemies squeeze him, love comes out. It's uncanny.

Preston and I, the quintessential odd entrepreneurial couple, know just enough about Web 3.0 technology and blockchain to be dangerous. However, our true passion lay in harnessing the power of decentralized autonomous organizations (DAOs). We envision a future where DAOs, underpinned by the love of Jesus Christ, WILL profoundly transform communities like St. George, bringing unprecedented social equity, economic empowerment, and spiritual revival.

Preston's Vision Takes Root

Imagine a future where the expansive hall of the St. George Convention Center buzzes with anticipation, filled with a remarkably diverse and vibrant audience. Middle and high school students, college student activists, concerned parents, passionate local pastors, bused-in dedicated civil rights leaders, innovative tech enthusiasts, and radical visionary representatives from nonprofit organizations all gather, unified by a shared ambition—a deep-seated passion for justice and equity. Preston and I can see it, and we will cause it. It only takes a spark, and the spark has started a fire, and soon it will be a raging inferno of God’s goodness.

In this envisioned gathering, it is not simply a rally but the ignition point of a transformative movement. Picture students courageously stepping forward, empowered by their personal experiences and stories of alienation and exclusion. Visualize concerned parents who, once filled with worry, now see hope through clear, actionable strategies. Community leaders grasp the profound implications of uniting to combat systemic discrimination and understand the broader societal benefits of their collective action. Tech experts and blockchain innovators stand intrigued, eager to apply cutting-edge solutions to age-old injustices through KINGDOM Empowered’s innovative platforms.

“And it shall be in the last days,’ God says, ‘That I will pour forth of My Spirit on all mankind; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy...’” Acts 2:17

Within this vision, the Convention Center overflows with energy and purpose, showcasing powerful technological tools: the KE DAO, the KE Super Wallet, SAVE Coin, UTOO Community Builder, and the BANK of GOODNESS. Each tool embodies the potential to catalyze sustainable, impactful change within communities throughout the Great Basin Region. Preston and I have a clear dream, and nothing is going to stop us.

Can you imagine Preston Allen stepping onto the stage amidst a roar of applause, his calm presence and genuine humility instantly captivating the audience? In this ideal scenario, Preston earnestly articulates his dream—uniting LDS and non-LDS youth to confront and dismantle the deeply entrenched injustice perpetuated by the LDS Church, starting with the dismantling of the LDS-only seminaries.

Preston passionately declares, "Our aspiration isn't just to shine a light on the problems; it’s to decisively resolve them. We dream of mobilizing a Digital Warrior Youth Army, empowered through advanced technology, motivated by genuine love, and resolutely committed to justice."

The attendees envision clear pathways forward, driven by Preston’s vision of leveraging Web 3.0 technology and community-centered DAO governance. This empowered collective can, in theory, meticulously document and publicly expose discrimination, advocate powerfully through strategic digital campaigns, and provide tangible, meaningful support to affected families.

"For if by the transgression of the one, death reigned through the one, much more those who receive the abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness will reign in life through the One, Jesus Christ. So then as through one transgression there resulted condemnation to all men, even so through one act of righteousness there resulted justification of life to all men. For as through the one man’s disobedience the many were made sinners, even so through the obedience of the One the many will be made righteous. The Law came in so that the transgression would increase; but where sin increased, grace abounded all the more, so that, as sin reigned in death, even so grace would reign through righteousness to eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord." Romans 5:17-21

Imagine the powerful resonance of Preston’s message—youth discovering the influential power of their voices, parents recognizing newfound advocacy tools for their children’s rights, and community leaders inspired to actively contribute to a digital revolution that fosters true justice.

Can you visualize the monumental impact if Preston and I were indeed able to achieve this ambitious goal? Picture the profound culture shift, the dismantling of entrenched biases, and the creation of a future defined by REAL unity, inclusion, and equity. This is the transformative potential of Preston’s vision—a vision that, through boldness and unwavering faith, could become reality. It is a vision of radical love and leadership that works for all, just like Jesus.

"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not tremble or be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go." Joshua 1:9

Digital Warriors Rise

Envision a groundbreaking movement taking shape, where young people from across the Great Basin Region become empowered and activated through innovative technology and digital advocacy. This vision starts with an accessible, intuitive platform known as the Abundant Life Academy Mobile App, specifically designed to connect, educate, and mobilize a vibrant community of youth committed to justice and equality by learning to love our enemies.

Imagine high school students enthusiastically embracing blockchain-based solutions like the KE Super Wallet and SAVE Coin, tools carefully crafted by KINGDOM Empowered to ensure transparency, accountability, and effectiveness in their campaigns. With these tools, students could effortlessly coordinate, document instances of discrimination, and build cohesive digital strategies to amplify their voices nationally and internationally. IMMEDIATE SOLUTIONS DEPLOYED.

Visualize engaging online forums and digital classrooms where youth are trained as digital warriors, equipped with practical skills in video production, social media strategy, community organizing, and blockchain governance. These digital warriors could create compelling multimedia content—videos, blogs, podcasts, and social media campaigns—highlighting personal testimonies and exposing systemic injustice clearly and powerfully. Loving your enemies through truth in love.

“Let no one look down on your youthfulness, but rather in speech, conduct, love, faith and purity, show yourself an example...” 1 Timothy 4:12

Imagine these students forming a tight-knit, supportive community through the DAO, collectively making decisions that impact their actions and initiatives. Through decentralized governance, every voice, no matter how young, would hold equal value, fostering leadership skills, confidence, and a strong sense of ownership among the youth.

Can you envision weekly digital town halls hosted by Preston and Craig, mentoring young leaders and providing guidance, inspiration, and strategic advice? These gatherings could serve as powerful platforms to share successes, address challenges, and maintain the momentum of their advocacy efforts.

Consider the potential impact of dedicated student-led advocacy days, where digital warriors collaborate with local organizations and schools to orchestrate peaceful demonstrations, educational workshops, and community service projects. Such coordinated actions would not only raise awareness but also embody the very spirit of unity, compassion, and active citizenship.

Finally, envision the broader societal ripple effect—schools becoming more inclusive, communities becoming more empathetic, and generations growing up empowered to challenge injustice wherever they encounter it. This vision of Digital Warriors Rising is a testament to the transformative power of young voices, united and empowered by technology, guided by wisdom, and driven by unwavering faith and love.

"You will know the truth, and the truth will make you free." John 8:32

Uniting in Radical Love

Now, imagine the powerful impact of uniting communities through radical acts of love and generosity, transcending historical divisions and entrenched prejudices. Visualize a diverse coalition, propelled not by anger or resentment, but by an extraordinary capacity for compassion, empathy, and forgiveness. Our vision extends beyond merely addressing discrimination—it seeks to completely transform relationships within the community through proactive, intentional acts of radical love.

Picture local community events where LDS and non-LDS families gather together for shared meals, mutual storytelling, and collective service projects. Imagine these interactions fostering genuine understanding and appreciation for each other's experiences and values. This radical love would be evident in the heartfelt conversations that bridge generations and cultural divides, inspiring genuine reconciliation and lasting unity.

“By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.” John 13:35

Envision community-driven projects sponsored by the KE DAO, utilizing blockchain transparency and the BANK of GOODNESS to directly fund and execute local initiatives addressing poverty, addiction, homelessness, education disparities, and other forms of social isolation. These visible, impactful acts of kindness and generosity would reinforce trust, creating a new narrative of collaboration and mutual respect.

Imagine Preston passionately advocating for the principle of loving one's enemies, as exemplified in the teachings of Jesus Christ. His message encourages young people and families to not only stand against injustice but also to extend grace and forgiveness toward those who perpetuate these systems, thereby breaking cycles of resentment and retaliation.

"After you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace, who called you to His eternal glory in Christ, will Himself perfect, confirm, strengthen and establish you." 1 Peter 5:10

Can you visualize the ripple effect of such radical love—transforming individual hearts, healing family wounds, and gradually reshaping entire communities into vibrant centers of inclusivity and collaboration? Picture the youth proudly sharing stories of restored friendships, reconciled families, and united neighborhoods.

In this vision, radical love becomes the ultimate force driving systemic change, providing a powerful counter-narrative to division and discrimination. It becomes the hallmark of KINGDOM Empowered’s approach, demonstrating that lasting justice and equity are achievable through compassion, generosity, and transformative love.

Allies from Unexpected Places

Imagine a future scenario where remarkable alliances begin to form, bridging long-standing divisions and forging connections previously thought impossible. In this visionary landscape, our mission transcends traditional boundaries, and it will garner support from the most unexpected corners of society.

Visualize prominent LDS community leaders courageously stepping forward, inspired by the powerful unity and radical love displayed by the youth. Imagine respected elders, former bishops, and influential LDS educators publicly affirming the need to end institutional discrimination and urging their communities to embrace transparency, equality, and justice. Their voices would resonate deeply, breaking internal barriers within the LDS Church and signaling a significant cultural shift.

“For whoever is not against us is for us.” Mark 9:40

Picture unlikely coalitions emerging between LDS and non-LDS faith leaders, united by a shared commitment to genuine religious freedom and inclusivity. These partnerships would initiate interfaith dialogues, fostering mutual respect, understanding, and collective action against discrimination. Imagine these gatherings becoming transformative spaces where mutual empathy and spiritual solidarity flourish, challenging long-held misconceptions and prejudices.

Envision influential business leaders and philanthropists within Utah joining the cause, motivated by both ethical responsibility and the innovative potential of Web 3.0 and blockchain technologies. Their support could propel the prosocial initiatives of the Great Basin Region, amplifying their message and ensuring the sustainability and scalability of digital warrior programs.

Imagine prominent educators and policymakers from across the nation lending their voices and expertise, drawn to the unique, youth-led approach to social justice envisioned by Preston and me. Such alliances would validate and amplify our cause and mission, influencing broader educational policies and inspiring nationwide dialogues on educational equity and religious freedom.

Consider the impact of well-known social media influencers and digital content creators passionately aligning with the mission. Their widespread reach could rapidly elevate public awareness, garnering national and international attention and solidifying broad public support for this transformative movement.

Finally, imagine the ultimate testament to this unexpected unity: LDS and non-LDS students standing together, side by side, advocating openly and fearlessly for change. This powerful image symbolizes a profound societal shift, reflecting a shared commitment to justice, compassion, mutual respect, and peace, all by God’s Grace.

In this envisioned future, alliances from unexpected places demonstrate the boundless possibilities when hearts and minds unite toward a common purpose. It highlights the transformative potential of genuine collaboration, proving that true and lasting change is achievable when people and communities join forces in love, solidarity, and unwavering dedication to justice.

"Therefore encourage one another and build up one another, just as you also are doing." 1 Thessalonians 5:11

Goliath Falls

Now, envision the defining moment when Goliath finally falls—a symbolic culmination of sustained unity, unwavering advocacy, and profound courage. Imagine the powerful ripple effect of the Digital Warriors, supported by unlikely alliances and radical acts of love, bringing an end to decades of deeply embedded discrimination perpetuated by the LDS Church leadership.

Picture widespread public awareness growing exponentially as carefully documented testimonies and meticulously gathered evidence, shared through digital platforms, capture national and global attention. Imagine respected journalists, influencers, and human rights advocates amplifying these messages, compelling Utah's state and local governments to address the systemic injustice openly and decisively.

“The LORD is my strength and song, and He has become my salvation.” Psalm 118:14

Visualize an unprecedented scenario in which prominent LDS leaders, under immense public and internal pressure, begin acknowledging the systemic flaws within their institutions. Imagine key members of the LDS Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve Apostles stepping forward, compelled by the moral clarity of the youth's courageous stand, publicly committing to dismantling exclusive practices such as LDS-only seminaries.

“He brought me forth also into a broad place; He rescued me, because He delighted in me.” Psalm 18:19

Envision groundbreaking legal victories, as tireless advocacy supported by prominent attorneys and civil rights organizations successfully challenges discriminatory policies in courtrooms, setting powerful precedents for equality and inclusion across the nation. This pivotal moment would reverberate profoundly, demonstrating that determined, compassionate action in love can triumph over entrenched injustice.

Can you imagine the powerful emotional scenes unfolding throughout communities—tears of relief and joy streaming down faces, heartfelt embraces shared among former adversaries, and an overwhelming sense of collective triumph? Imagine youth leaders and community activists recognized for their bravery and resilience, their stories inspiring generations to come.

Many will stop, look around, and ask, “Where is the next giant to slay?”

Picture the transformative impact within the LDS Church as grassroots members, empowered and encouraged by these events, demand greater transparency and accountability from their leaders. Imagine this awakening sparking a movement for profound internal Elon Musk DOGE-like reform, leading to an unprecedented transfer of LDS Church assets into a community-driven DAO, fundamentally reshaping the church's future.

Finally, envision the powerful symbolism of Goliath's fall, a testament to the strength, resilience, and potential of united communities driven by justice and love. This moment would not only represent the end of an era of discrimination but also the dawn of a new, inclusive, and equitable chapter for the entire Great Basin Region and beyond.

"For nothing will be impossible with God." Luke 1:37

Continuing the Journey

Imagine standing at the crossroads of history, recognizing that this triumph is not the end but rather a powerful and inspiring beginning. Preston and I understand deeply that the victory over Goliath represents not just an achievement but a profound call to continued action and sustained commitment. The path ahead, illuminated by many groundbreaking successes, promises even greater transformations yet to unfold.

Picture the energized Digital Warriors and the empowered communities, united not just by past accomplishments but by a shared vision for a brighter future. Envision Preston announcing ambitious plans to expand our innovative platforms—the KE DAO, the KE Super Wallet, SAVE Coin, UTOO Community Builder, and the BANK of GOODNESS—beyond the Great Basin Region, reaching communities nationwide and ultimately around the globe.

“For I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus.” Philippians 1:6

Visualize the rapid growth of FREE mobile apps of love, providing youth worldwide with the resources, training, and support needed to tackle social injustices wherever they arise. Imagine young people from different continents joining together digitally, inspired by the success stories emerging from Utah, committed to replicating this transformative movement in their own communities.

Consider Preston discipling new generations of leaders, passionately mentoring young visionaries who will carry the torch forward. Imagine intensive workshops, retreats, and international conferences aimed at equipping future changemakers with the knowledge, skills, and inspiration to build upon this foundation of justice, compassion, and radical love.

Imagine the relentless momentum of these movements catalyzing profound shifts in other arenas of societal injustice—addressing educational inequality, economic disparity, racial tensions, and beyond. Each victory fueling greater ambition, deeper solidarity, and more expansive visions for societal transformation rooted in love, equity, and RADICAL transparency.

"For He rescued us from the domain of darkness, and transferred us to the kingdom of His beloved Son," Colossians 1:13

Visualize an ever-growing network of DAOs emerging across diverse communities, each uniquely tailored to address specific needs and challenges, yet all united under the principles of decentralized governance, radical transparency, and collective empowerment. Picture communities once divided by mistrust and prejudice becoming vibrant centers of collaboration, innovation, and mutual support.

Finally, envision Preston and me standing together, looking toward a future that extends far beyond our own lifetimes. With humility, determination, and boundless faith, we inform all who journey with us: this is only the beginning. The road ahead promises continued challenges, deeper growth, and unprecedented opportunities for global transformation. The journey toward lasting justice, equality, and unity has only just begun, and the best is yet to come.

Read all three articles in the David and Goliath Series

David and Goliath - Article 1

David and Goliath - Article 2

David and Goliath - Article 3