From Faith in Isolation to Faith in Action

Marcelin Orsot’s life was marked by professional success and spiritual devotion, but something was missing. As an administrative and finance officer at the ILO Regional Office for Africa and a leader in his local church, he assumed that his faith and work had to exist in separate silos. His role in church was active and faithful, but his professional life felt isolated from his spiritual purpose.

Reflecting on this period, Marcelin recalls feeling as though he was living in a “bunker”—shielded from integrating his faith into his everyday interactions. It was during a particularly difficult professional season that he sought God’s direction and began asking deeper questions: What is my true calling? How can I live my faith fully?

Encountering Cities Project and Finding His Mission

Marcelin’s turning point began with an introduction to Cities Project through Micheline Koube. Despite initial reluctance to join the program due to a busy schedule, he eventually attended a leadership meeting at the encouragement of friends and facilitators.

During the October 2015 retreat, Marcelin was deeply moved by the teaching on the Kingdom Story—an exploration of how God’s work of creation, fall, redemption, and restoration informs every aspect of life. “It was as though a veil was lifted from my eyes,” Marcelin shared. The concept of living an integrated life, where faith permeates work, family, and community, gave him a renewed vision for his purpose.

A Life Transformed by an Integrated Calling

Marcelin’s perspective on the gospel expanded. His faith was no longer confined to religious spaces but became the guiding force behind his everyday interactions. With newfound confidence, he began sharing the gospel at work, offering prayer and mentorship to his colleagues.

One pivotal moment occurred during a socio-economic development meeting, where Marcelin shared a story that led 30 attendees to pray for salvation. “What I learned at Cities Project equipped me to speak naturally about my faith in spaces where I never thought it would be possible,” he reflected.

His influence didn’t stop at the workplace. Marcelin and his wife, Thérèse, organized neighborhood gatherings, offering encouragement and discipleship to their community. They helped revitalize their residents’ association, restoring hope and unity.

Bringing Light to His Workplace and Community

Marcelin embraced his role as “salt”—a biblical metaphor for living in a way that preserves and enriches the world. Just as salt enhances the flavor of food without being overtly visible, Marcelin’s faith became an unseen but impactful presence in his spheres of influence.

At work, his leadership style shifted to prioritize compassion, integrity, and empowerment. His colleagues noticed the difference, expressing gratitude for his mentorship and care. At home and in his church, he deepened his role as a spiritual guide, teaching others to live their callings authentically.

Becoming the “Salt” of His Sphere

Marcelin’s story is a testament to the transformative power of living an integrated life. By surrendering his personal ambitions to God’s greater plan, he found joy, freedom, and purpose in every aspect of his life. His example shows that when faith is woven into work, relationships, and community, it becomes a catalyst for renewal and restoration.

Through the Cities Project, Marcelin discovered that discipleship isn’t confined to church—it’s a way of life that transforms families, workplaces, and cities. His journey challenges us all to ask: How can I be salt in my sphere of influence today?