News from the Velardes

We, once again, want to thank you for your faithful support.  We continue to follow as the Lord leads and boy has it been a ride thus far!  We would like to take a minute and share a little bit of what will be in our next newsletter but felt that our supporters should get a sneak peak about what has been happening here and give you an opportunity to pray with us.

We are currently going through the book of John.  We just finished chapter 11 and now getting into the last few weeks of Jesus life before he goes to the cross.  It was Leonard Ravenhill who said "If the sermon doesn't burn in you (preacher), it won't burn in anybody else, that's for sure !”  A few weeks ago I shared with the church that when Mary and Martha sent word to Jesus that Lazarus was sick, He acted in a manner opposite of what they thought they needed.  In fact later when he comes to them they both tell him, “Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died!”  What they thought they needed was a healing of their beloved brother but what Jesus had for them was not only the eventual resurrection of their brother but first he had to show the two sisters a life lesson.  To Martha he addressed her need to be instructed, (remember she was always busy but never at His feet) and to Mary he needed to show her a compassionate Jesus, Jesus wept as she wept.  

All that to say that the Lord acts in ways that we don’t always understand yet, if we are willing to learn from it we can walk away with more than the miracle!  Our little church here has been established for about 7 months now and in those 7 months we have moved locations 3 times and now occupy our 4th spot.  Most of you have prayed and walked through our moves from day 1.  I sit here as Mary and Martha wondering why Jesus just didn’t get us to spot number 4 from the get go.  He was able to.  However I think there is something He is looking to show me and my family.  First of all i sense Him showing us that what I thought we as a church needed is not exactly what He thought.  Church in Mexico is not the same as church in the states.  Secondly I believe he is showing us to take steps of faith.  My nature is not to gamble, I tend to go with what the best odds are, yet in walking with the Lord, He desires that we take steps of faith.  Like Mary and Martha I don’t know why God is doing what He is doing all I can do is follow and let him lead.  As Martha said “Yes, Lord, I believe that you are the Christ, the Son of God, who was to come into the world.”  I have no idea what is going on but “You are the Christ!”  If I trusted you to save me and give me eternity then I can trust you to guide this little fellowship to whatever spot you choose.  Its not where I thought the church should be geographically, yet its where He thought it should be.  Its not the space I had envisioned, yet its exactly the space He envisioned for us.  Its not the price I wanted to pay (we are now paying 4 times what we paid in the 2 spot), yet its exactly the amount He believes we need to pay.  

So, two weeks ago we take a step of faith and find this space.  Long story short, we didn’t find it but He found it.  He knew exactly what we need and where we need to be.  The new spot is an old restaurant that consists of 2 rooms and 2 bathrooms.  The beauty of letting go and letting God is as follows:  

1.  We are now in a place that is ours 24/7, we actually had our first mens prayer there on Saturday and our first Sunday service there yesterday!  

2.  The church is right on the main road into town!  Everybody can see it

3.  The bus stop is right in front of the church.  As the people get off the bus the first thing they see is the church! (its noisy, but that ok)

4.  We are on the outskirts of town, next to the colonia with the most inhabitants!

5.  We have been approved by the landlord to expand and build what would be a classroom in the future

6. Parking, there is plenty of parking!  (parking in GTO is hard to come by)

We keep going and keep taking steps of faith with this small church.  Everyone is wondering how in the world we are going to afford  this place.  I don’t know but I know the One who does.  Where are we going to find the funds to build a classroom, they ask.  I don’t know but I know the One who does.  We already have ideas to reach the community around us to let them know we are not the enemy but are there to share the love of Christ. 

Thank you for praying and investing in this place that needs the Love of Christ.  Here are a few photos:

 

God's Perfect Timing

Dear Sweet Brothers and Sisters,

You have been so good to pray and be faithful; I cannot thank you all enough for helping to bring me safely back home. The trip home and all of the events of the month prior to my departure were so covered with God’s fingerprints the timing and the answers to prayer were nothing short of miraculous.

The problems with my health and other things which happened in Mexico demonstrated that the LORD was leading me back to the U.S. and that this was His timing. My family was ready for me to return, I had unfinished business here which needs attending and the LORD is giving me the time and the space to take care of me a bit. In the months since Abraham stepped down as pastor, my mission/church workload had doubled and I was giving out steadily with little or no replenishment. I thanked and praised the LORD every day for the Internet, Searchlight Ministries, KAPL, and Calvary Satellite Network because I was able to take in an average of three studies a day to help sustain me.

The spam email from Facebook coming from an unknown brother (Hector Velarde and family) who just happened to be interested in a ministry opportunity in Guanajuato and wanted to come and see what we (I) were doing; he and his family’s visit to Guanajuato to visit the congregation and others in Santa Teresa (who’d been turned away by our previous pastor) who were desperately seeking a Calvary Chapel in Central Mexico. Their prayers and our prayers and the LORD’s leading confirmed for them that it was right to take-over the ministry which the LORD called me to begin in 2008.

The careful knitting together the hearts of all involved and bringing almost everyone back to the body of believers who’d gotten saved or congregated with us at Comunion Cristiana de Guanajuato through the years I have worked in Mexico and He did it so quickly and easily, everyone was ready for new leadership. If I had had any doubts they all dissolved when Hector told me his wife “Jennifer is a huge fan of pastor Jon Courson and his matter of fact presentation of the Bible”. I did listen to him teach to be sure, but God did all the real work.

So I’m back in Oregon, doing well, starting the job hunt and to get my spiritual tanks refilled. I’m including a list of the expenses I incurred during the trip, praise the LORD for His protection and care along the way.

God bless you my friends!

Sister Cindy;-)

Date	Expense	Cost
12/11/2013	auto maintenance and labor	$   160.00
12/13/2013	Guanajuato motel & meals	$     75.00
12/14/2013	gasoline Gto - Mazatlan 464 mi	$   120.00
12/14/2013	tolls Guanajuato - Mazatlan	$   190.31
12/14/2013	Mazatlan motel & meals	$     72.96
12/15/2013	gas Mazatlan - Hermosillo 551mi	$   183.70
12/15/2013	tolls Mazatlan - Hermosillo	$   140.17
12/15/2013	Hermosillo motel & meals	$   100.42
12/16/2013	gas Hermosillo - Kanab 848mi	$   234.96
12/16/2013	tolls Hermosillo - Nogales, AZ	$     47.50
12/16/2013	trip permit Arizona 30 day	$     15.00
12/16/2013	motel Kanab, UT & meals	$   102.72
12/17/2013	gasoline Kanab to Boise, ID	$   123.85
12/17/2013	Boise, ID motel & meals	$     42.00
12/18/2013	gas Boise, Idaho - Medford, OR	$   115.76
12/18/2013	meals	$     14.00
	total travel expenses	$ 1,738.35

  

Passing the batton...

Dear Mission Partners,

I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me. Philippians 4:13

Over the past several months things have become increasingly difficult for me here in Mexico, at first I really just believed it was a time of testing which I have weathered before and always come out stronger and brighter; however, it is now clear that this is different and that my time here in Mexico is coming to a natural close. My services as a “Women’s Leader” can be taken over by Mary Rocha, the first woman led and taught through the women’s ministry here, I have shared everything I can with her. Mary is now fully prepared to continue the work.

To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven: A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up; Ecclesiastes 3:1-2

 My situation financially has deteriorated due to many factors beyond my control, not the least of which have been increasing health problems, on Monday my Mexican doctor wrote me a prescription to return to the US for prompt medical care. I am praying for provision, because currently I have no way to return.

 Likewise the Spirit also helps our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. Romans 8:26 

After careful consideration of the various options to return to the US, I believe my trying to return in my car (which no one is sure will get me there) would be extremely imprudent and although the alternative would be almost the same price as driving plus expenses for 6-7 days, its safer and more secure and would allow me to brings my most important possessions with me, which would be a First-Class Airfare.

And he that searches the hearts knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because he makes intercession for the saints according to the will of God. Romans 8:27 

The ticket would allow me to bring more weight (70# per bag) and 3 suitcases (clothing and work materials) but would leave me without transportation in Oregon; although I believe God supplies ALL of my needs and transportation options always exist!

 

And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28 

I need to finish my teaching contract, but as early as the 14^th of December- I can be ready to go; I have a couple of pressing health concerns and need to see my foot surgeon as soon as I get back, because I may lose one of my toes (diabetes). 

I have begun sending out resumes from here for the next semester in Southern Oregon colleges, universities and am looking for different women’s ministry opportunities as well. 

In the past, I have never felt at peace about leaving-I knew God hadn’t finished with me here and although I have an active ministry here especially at the university there are now people prepared and working behind the scenes within the faculty who have taken up the cross and are moving forward with the gospel. I have that peace which passes understanding, God is and always has been in control.

May the LORD richly bless you my brothers and sisters in the faith!

Love in Christ,
Cindy

If you would like to financially assist me in the effort to return to the United States you may send your donations to :
AguaViva Christian Fellowship
2005 Commerce Drive
Medford, OR 97501
 Write checks to AVCF FBO Central Mexico Mission

July Mission Update

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, 

Grace and peace to each of you!

 Ephesians 6:10 …my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.

The past month here in Guanajuato has been a busy and blessed time; the women have been adjusting to life without a “pastor” per se. It has been a time of reconnection for us in a way which I could not have managed or manipulated in my own power. 

Since my return to Guanajuato over 14 months ago, I had not been able to connect with the women the way that I was before leaving. My leaving created a breach of trust and although our love for each other did not change, they chose to take their petitions and problems to Abraham rather than to me.

 Ephesians 6:11 Put on the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.

The reconnection has brought harmony and a return of God-reliance that I had emphasized before, not trying to manage problems or difficulties (or figuring out what to do); instead returning to the prayer closet in a way which was forgotten in my absence. 

Women are funny creatures (I am sure this was part of God’s design) if there is a “man” around to rely on, that is usually our first stop. When we are young our daddies solve our problems and when we marry our husbands take on that role. BUT I am convinced that God wants us to rely on HIM first and man second. So this is what is going on in the women’s ministry here today. 

We bring our problems and petitions to the LORD, we are rebuilding personal relationships and staying in better contact throughout the week instead of only on Bible study days or Sunday. 

Ephesians 6:18 Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;

 I ask that you all remember us in prayer as often as possible.

A number of us are battling physical attacks of the enemy on our health; Mary, Yolanda, Leonor and I are praying for physical healing. 

Others are struggling with rebellion of the flesh; Edgar (abusive father’s influence), Michell temptations, Daniela (teen pregnancy), Abigail (not follow in Daniela’s path), Fernanda and Jacob (obedience).   

Please continue praying for Abraham and Eli that they find what they are looking for in God’s will. 

Ultimately that is what we all need, God’s will in our lives and the willingness to follow wherever He leads us. 

Ephesians 6:19 And for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the gospel,

 May the LORD meet you in a quiet place a lift you up! 

Love in Christ, 

Cindy

 If you are led to support this ministry please send checks to: 

Agua Viva Christian Fellowship (FBO Central MX Mission)
2005 Commerce Drive
Medford, OR 97501

Central Mexico Mission Annual Financial Report

Dear Brothers and Sisters in faith, grace and peace to you all!

            Recently a brother suggested that I send out an expense report of this mission and where the donations go and in hopes that other may feel led to help this ministry. The Apostle Paul talked about money and giving with grace and maturity, he told about the blessings we receive in giving- I totally do not have his finesse. So please receive this letter in the manner it is intended; to inform all of you of the needs of this ministry and where the funds are coming from.

This mission is not affiliated with any large groups or associations which help missions, we do not receive a monthly stipend from anyone; when I returned to Mexico in May of 2012, I knew I would have to find support from churches, organizations or individuals or I would have to hurry and find work so that the mission could get back to the work it was doing before I returned to the states in March of 2011.

What is this ministry? Offering a safe alternative to living in violence and offering the gift of salvation through evangelism and guidance for new Christians; primarily working with women and children suffering from domestic violence, counseling, prayer, teaching the Bible and Christianity 101 in the hours and days when I am free of my responsibilities at the University of Guanajuato; and at U of Guanajuato the LORD opened a door with my students, sowing the seeds of the gospel and offering guidance to those who desire to know Christ and receive salvation.

            I work 28 hours a week here at a local university, it is not a high paying job, but it provides much of what I need personally to survive, totaling about $655.USD/month after taxes. In addition, on the average the mission receives between $100.-$375. USD/month through donations made to Agua Viva Christian Fellowship for the benefit of this mission.

The operating costs to maintain Central Mexico Mission per year are:

$16,600.00 total expenses

$1,660.00 tithes and offerings
$3,276.00 rent and utilities
$2,055.34 gasoline, insurance and routine auto maintenance
$2.844.00 (1) time expenses: bed, refrigerator, document transfers, RT expenses funeral
$3,312.60 groceries, telephone, internet, and medications
$ 234.00 doctor visits
$ 500.00 Mexican VISA with Permission to work
$2,718.00 Women’s Ministry (food pantry, clothing, shelter, emergency funds)

The mission’s total donations received through Agua Viva and other individuals last year were:

   $3,950.41 USD total donations
+ $7,475.00  wages and personal income
 $11,425.41 total received from donations & personal income
  ($5,234.59) taken from savings

                  The semi-annual report on domestic violence for the municipality of Guanajuato was released a few weeks ago revealing that since January 1, 2013 (31) women have died at the hands of their spouses or a loved one. 

                    Families can be saved and restored, but not without the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. Satan does not want the people of Mexico to have relationship with Jesus!  People tell me to “Pack it in!”, “Give it up…”, “It’s not worth the trouble!  But God hasn’t said that…. God tells me “better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in man” Psalm 118:8.  

As long as the LORD leads me to be here and continue the work I'll be here. Mission work is not for the weak or faint of heart, reliance on the LORD is really all that is required. I am often reminded of something a very wise Corrie ten Boom said, "You never really know that Jesus is all you need until Jesus is all you have." 

God bless you sweet siblings in Christ!

Cindy;-)

   

  
  

God is so good!

June is proving to be a month of many changes here in Guanajuato... 

Unlike MOST missions, the Central Mexico Mission of Guanajuato (which serves women and children who are or have been victims of domestic violence and has an evangelistic ministry as well) does not receive the financial support of any larger parent organization. 

The vision of this mission is to serve victims of domestic violence and their families with the end goal of washing these families in the water of the Word until they are through the healing process; however long it takes and be reunited as the healthy family unit. We never encourage divorce, we DO encourage prayerful healing, salvation, love and respect. 

Additionally, the LORD has opened up a new opportunity for me as a part-time professor at the UGTO teaching upper level English, He has guided me carefully in choosing the materials which we use and the topics which we discuss and write about and through that position I am able to share God's truths through the use of the Word. 

I tell people that I am only guiding them to the Water, the students are already thirsting for the Truth... God does the rest!  

I will praise thee for ever, because thou hast done it: and I will wait on thy name; for it is good before thy saints. Psalm 52:9

The pastor and his wife who have worked with this mission since April of 2009 announced on Sunday that they are stepping down and cannot say if they'll return to the ministry. 

Today I spoke with a brother, friend and pastor whose church has supported this mission since its conception in October of 2008 and because we no longer have a "pastor" or "church" his church (the last church) which has been sending gifts to me here in central Mexico is very probably withdrawing its support.

In truth my personal needs require $1,500. USD /month for living expenses, medicines, insurance and transportation. Apart from that I have always tried to help the women who I work with to meet some of their needs which is why I have a job outside the mission. My income from work is $600/month. God has always done the rest! 

The LORD is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower. Sal 18:3  I will call upon the LORD, who is worthy to be praised: so shall I be saved from mine enemies. Psalm 18:2-3

The brother has left me with much to think about and pray for; maybe the LORD has finished with me here in Mexico. Please keep us in prayer, I would hate to abandon the women and families I have been working with. It would be fulfilling a prophesy given by a local pastor here 4 years ago who said "never trust American missionaries they come in offer salvation and promises and before the work is done they lose interest and go home."
God bless you my friends brothers and sisters.
Cindy ;-)

Please if you believe in this mission and wish to support it send donations to
Agua Viva Christian Fellowship (in the for line of your check write: FBO Central Mexico Mission)
2005 Commerce Drive
Medford, OR 97501

Update June 2013

God is so good! This past 5 months has flown by, it has been a wonderful time of planting and caring for those who are just getting to know the Word and coming into the realization of the True and Living God through relationship with Jesus Christ.

My focus has changed as God has been molding me into who He wants me to be. I no longer speak to people about religion at all; I only share the Word and the miracles I have experienced in my own life. The truth is what reaches the people... Everyone seems to have an innate desire to know God and to have relationship with Him; however, that desire is hidden in most people by their sin. If we focus on getting into relationship with God, identifying the sin isn’t as necessary as identifying that we are ALL sinners and that ALL sin is the same in God’s eyes. Once that is established, God seems to do the rest! I share, ask poignant questions which get people started looking and I’m there to point them in the right direction and answer questions.

Romans 5:1-2 Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: by whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.

Ultimately, though the LORD is doing all the work while I pray for them and the ability to guide them in the direction that the Holy Spirit would send them and I wait upon the LORD to do all of the real work. God has given me a large toolbox from which to do my work and He has provided the students and the materials, He tells me which questions to ask to get people stimulated into searching for the answers. It has been such a thrill for me to be asked where in the Bible people can find the answers to their questions on any subject. I don’t know all the answers, but I am happy to say. “Let me check and I’ll send you what you need tonight.”

Hebrews 13:5-6 Conversation without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me.

God has been so faithful to provide every answer and for every need in His perfect timing! I have been very blessed. Please keep this mission in prayer; it is so financially poor that I will not be able to return to the states this year to recharge my spiritual batteries. I do not have the backing of any church or large organization just a shepherd’s heart to feed the flock and find the lost. God bless you my friends!

Remember if it is your desire to help this mission all donations are accepted through Agua Viva Christian Fellowship, checks must say in the “For” line FBO: Central Mexico Mission.

Agua Viva Christian Fellowship

2005 Commerce DR

Medford, OR 97501

Love in Christ,

Cindy;-)