FCC “VISION” - first christian church

God’s Timing...Not Mine (Amy Guerrero)
Inspirational Songs and Verses (FCC Members)
FCC “Vision” (Ray Ridgway)
Catalyst (Anna Unger)
Revolve (Amber Laskowsky)
What Are You Reading?? (FCC Members)
Rejuvenate (Stacie Nichols)
Kenya Missions Insider Look w/ Chris Watson
2013 Short-term Mission Trips
“Uthus” (Christina McKinley)
Moving Forward (Leticia Lozano)
The Adventures of Luis, Brandon, & Gitana (Rocio Rodriguez)
To Do List From God
I ran my life in search of worldly things;
My time and will were firmly in control.
I thought I had no need for what God brings;
I gave no heed to murmurs from my soul.
“You’re planning, doing all the time,” it said,
“But something else is missing deep inside.
Your mind is whirling, but your heart is dead,
So turn to God and let go of your pride.”
I did, and God said, “Here’s My plan for you:
Give your life to Me, and just let go.
Have faith and pray, and read the Bible through,
And you’ll have blessings more than you can know.”
So simple, yet it brings me perfect peace,
Living life for God the way I should.
Direction, purpose, fullness and release—
Life with God is very, very good.
By Joanna Fuchs
God’s Timing…
Not Mine
Habakkuk 2:3 states: “This
vision is for a future time. It describes
the end, and it will be fulfilled. If it
seems slow in coming, wait patiently,
for it will surely take place. It will not
be delayed.”
This verse has been my stronghold over the last three years. May
2010 Victor and I graduated from High
School, three weeks later on June 5,
we were married and then July 17 he
left a year to Mexico City and August 29, our son AJ was born. Talk about a roller coaster of
emotions in 3 months. I was so mixed with emotions that I didn’t know which way was up or
down. It wasn’t until about November where everything settled down and I was able to feel
everything! I struggled with keeping my head up and coming to church. I poured myself into
work, AJ and I forced smiles everyday. By the time March came around I hit rock bottom and
literally just felt nothing. I knew that I had been neglecting my relationship with Christ because
I was so angry with him! I couldn’t understand how in the world He could do this to my family.
So after almost a year, I picked up my Bible and it opened to this verse. I remember just breaking down and for the first time in a long time feeling God’s presence in my heart. I felt his arms
wrap around me and whisper “I am here Amy, I promise I know what I am doing, just trust
me.”
Ever since that day I have leaned on this verse. When I am not sure what God has planned
and things don’t make sense with what I want in life. I remember that I am not in control and
just to be patient because He will not delay in HIS plans for my life.
I know (or hope) that I am not the only one who has felt like this. My advice to you is to
always remember to lean not on your own understanding and trust in the Lord your God with
all your heart and he will make your path straight (Proverbs 3:5-6). God does know what HE is
doing, and HIS timing is ALWAYS perfect!! So use me as an example. Don’t wait all summer long
to pick up your Bible and start growing. Stay connected to God’s Word and keep digging.
- Amy Guerrero - FCC Member
For we walk
by faith
and not by sight.
2 Corinthians 5:7
These verses and songs are an inspiration to some of our FCC
members in struggles and triumphs!
Hebrews 13:16
“Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are
pleasing to God.” - Rachel Wells
1 Corinthians 13: 4-7
“Love is patient; love is kind, love is not envious or arrogant or rude. It does not
insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice in
wrongdoings, but rejoices in the truth. It bears all things, believe all things,
hopes all things, endures all things.” - Amanda Alvarado
One of my most favorite songs of all time is “Mighty to Save”. - Krystal Cruz
“Redeemer” by Nicole C Mullen is my favorite. It always makes me smile because
she has a awesome message and an incredible voice. - Gary Bryant
One verse that I look to when facing a challenge is Galatians 1:10 “Obviously, I’m not
trying to win the approval of people, but of God. If pleasing people were my goal, I
would not be Christ’s servant.” another verse that I rely on is Hebrews 13:5-6 “Don’t
love money; be satisfied with what you have. For God has said, “I will never fail you. I
will never abandon you. So we can say with confidence “The LORD is my helper, so I will
have no fear. What can mere people do to me?” - Lance Feikert
FCC “VISION”
~ Changing the World…
One Life at a Time ~
“A God-ordained vision will
begin as a concern. You will hear or
see something that gets your
attention. A thought related to the
future will generate an emotion.
Something will bother you about
the way things are or the way things
are headed. Unlike many passing
concerns, these will stick with you. You will find yourself thinking about them in your
free time. You won’t be able to let them go because they won’t let you go.”These are
the words of Andy Stanley, founder of North Point Ministries, senior pastor of North
Point Community Church in Atlanta, Georgia and author of the book “VISIONEERING:
God’s Blueprint for Developing and Maintaining Vision”
That concern for the leadership of First Christian Church related to the fact that
we felt our facilities had been constricting our ministry opportunities. Concerns about
classroom space for our Wednesday night programs; better facilities for active youth
and children; safer, more engaging areas for our preschool and grade school students,
and the lack of space needed for our church family to fellowship all together in one
place. We believed that we were being called to carefully examine and determine what
our options were as it related to potentially improving and enhancing our building
and our grounds. Based on our convictions the leadership organized the “Vision Focus
Group”. Their objective was to identify what our ministry needs truly were and begin
gathering important information that would be necessary in making the key decisions
on how those needs may be addressed. The Vision Group, led by prayer, they began to
address these matters, starting with an understanding and a Vision Statement that
“Every Life Matters” based upon 1 Corinthians 9:19-23: “..I have become all things to
all men so that by all possible means I might save some. I do all this for the sake of
the gospel, that I may share in its’ blessings.” 1 Corinthians 9:22b, 23
While we know that we cannot win “everyone”, we want to strive to win as many
to Christ as possible. From the beginning of this journey it was agreed that our task
was about people. We are to be reminded that in worship, it is the person who is
significant, not the place. In fact Jesus was our example of this in that he visited the
synagogues but did not limit his fellowship to the building. The scriptures make it
clear that the people are the temples (the church) where God dwells, not the physical
building. Buildings are tools to be used for: Worship, Christian
Education, Prayer, and Fellowship. The buildings can be consecrated to God, but He no more dwells in the carpet or the concrete or the wood than He does in the church van or hymnal or
a video projector. So it is important for us to remember that
the building is a tool for ministry. Everything we do is about
the ministry, not about the building. There is no denying that
emotion can be tied to a place, but it is much more than the
place that is important. It is what happens in the place that is
important. The building is not sacred. What is sacred is the
ministry – the worship, education and fellowship – all the
activities that happen in and around, and because of the building. This is not meant to minimize the roles of the building in
the life of a church. It is meant to put them in their proper
perspective.
Through prayer, interviews, questions, and inquiries it
seemed that as we have sought to create areas where more people could be included
in to the ministry opportunities we offer, our building has indeed become restrictive
at times in certain areas, and as a result in future growth potential. As we move
forward with the process of enhancing our facility through the addition of a multipurpose room, new lobby, ADA accessible restrooms and entry ways, re-purposing our
existing space to better accommodate our preschool through school aged children,
our ministerial staff, and much more; we know it will be important for us to remain
focused on what we believed God would have for the ministry of our church.
It is the leadership’s desire to be more effective in reaching the lost, reaching
out to those who need Jesus Christ, and providing the necessary tools to allow for
spiritual growth and biblical knowledge of how we are to live as Christians. Although
the process of enhancing our building and grounds is an area that we have identified
would in fact help us in reaching our objective, as mentioned before, a building is
nothing more than a ministry tool, and it will ultimately be up to each member of the
church to fulfill the goal of 1 Corinthians 9:19-23, and do everything we can to win
some to Christ.
From the beginning of this process we have invited God to be a part of these
proceedings. God through his word has promised to direct us and provide wisdom, as
long as we are open and ready. A genuine openness and transparency will allow us to
look at every facet of the process. We are called to remain open to what God has to
teach each of us along the way.
The leadership of FCC invites you to be a part of what God has called us to
pursue by joining us first and foremost in prayer.
1. Pray for those who need to learn about Christ in Dodge City & our surrounding area.
2. Pray that God would create ministry opportunities to engage with those who
need Christ.
3. Pray for FCC to be unified as a church as we seek the lost and grow as a
result.
4. Pray for wisdom as we train up the next generation of believers.
5. Pray for God to provide financially as we move forward.
6. Pray for Cogun and Alpha-Omega as partners in this process.
7. Pray for patience and understanding as we continue to grow.
We believe there will be exciting opportunities for bonding and growing people
in the Lord as we work through this process. It is in Him we are able to do more than
we could ask or imagine (Ephesians 3:20-21). God is the real authority. God provides
the wisdom (James 1: 5-6), gives the direction (Proverbs 3:5-6), sustains (Psalms 18:35)
and ultimately accomplishes all. (Ephesians 3:20-21).
By: Ray Ridgway, Vision Team Member
My name is Anna Unger and I am a Junior at Dodge
City High School. Catalyst Dallas is by far one of the
best experiences I have had. We heard from speakers
like Andy Stanley, Jon Acuff, Craig Groeschel, Lysa
Terkeurst, Amena Brown Owen, Reggie Joiner, Louie
Giglio, Dave Ramsey, Emmit Smith, Brene Brown, Mark
Driscoll and Erwin McManus. All the speakers had great
messages. I personally enjoyed Andy Stanley. He had
great points like, “We learn most in the midst of pain.”
Which I believe is so true. He also said leaders are made
one response at a time. Jon Acuff said “Don’t wait to be
ready, just do it. Our God is a READY God!” All the
speakers were very insightful and impactful in what
they had to say. They had speakers geared toward every area of ministry including missions. This
conference is built/made for leaders. Whether to help you become one or better yourself in the
area. Along with great speakers, we also had a great worship team!! We got to worship with
Matt Redman and David Crowder. They also sell books, CD’s, shirts, and materials that other
people made in all kinds of different countries. The interesting thing to me was that although this
was a very serious conference the speakers used jokes to lighten the mood. I would recommend
this conference for anyone going into a position of leadership or anyone who just wants to learn
more about God and their walk with Him.
- Anna Unger - FCC Student
My name is Amber Laskowsky and I am an 8th grader
at Comanche Middle School. In May, I had the
privilege to attend the Revolve Tour in Arvada,
Colorado. I have gone on several trips with First
Christian Church, but this by far was my favorite!
Not only did I enjoy the crazy bus rides and laughs
but the fellowship between all of the girls.
I enjoyed listening to all speakers and worshiping with a great group of ladies around me. My
favorite part of the trip was jamming out to Anthem Lights and KJ-52. It was great to see
everyone dancing and having fun (even some of the sponsors)!
The theme of the tour was the typical talk of teenage girls; love. We were told to ask
the question “Who is love?” rather than, “What is love?” Everyone needs to understand that
God is the ultimate father that loves you unconditionally. Struggling girls especially need to
understand this. No matter what happens with your first boyfriend, your last, or any guy in
between, God is always there at the end of the day with arms wide open. I heard many
stories from speakers about past life experiences and how many people hide from feelings.
We all need to be honest with God about our feelings and not be afraid to hide. That is
easier said than done, but I know that I will always have God to turn to in troubled times.
I am very appreciative of First Christian Church to sponsor trips like this. I would highly
recommend this experience for any girl 6-12 grade. You will not only take home memories,
but a lesson that will last you a lifetime!
- Amber Laskowsky - FCC Student
Unplanned is the true story of Abby Johnson: She is a former Planned Parenthood director. She shares
her story and how it was completely God that transformed her heart. Through many details coming
together her eyes were opened up to the truth of what she was doing and the damage that her clinic was
doing. The interesting thing is that right from the beginning she admits that she believed abortion was
wrong but she was led to believe that what she was doing at Planned Parenthood was actually helping to
decrease abortions. The book was so helpful because it showed first that even though our culture is
saturated with lies and evil, God is still in control and He IS at work to change hearts! It is also our responsibility as Christians to engage in the right conversations and know what is going on in the world around
us. Abby shares what was helpful and what was not in her conversations with pro-lifers along her
journey. Excellent read!
-Heidi Feikert - FCC Member
Cape Refuge: I enjoy reading fictional romance and suspense books by Christian authors. Two of my favorite
authors are Karen Kingsbury and Terri Blackstock. I’m currently reading the last book in the Cape Refuge
Series by Terri Blackstock. The books have the common theme of loving others with Christ-like love and the
blessings that come from doing his work. I’ve really enjoyed reading these books and look forward to
starting another series by this same author.
-Melinda Bryant - FCC Member
And the Bride Wore White: Dannah Gresh has written a fantastic purity study book for teen girls. An advocate for equipping girls to face purity issues with peace and confidence, Dannah also promotes strengthening
the mother daughter relationship. She encourages the girls to confide in their moms and moms to be ready to
listen and talk to their daughters with honesty and patience. The book covers seven secrets to sexual purity.
These secrets touch on a variety of subjects such as recognizing that we can only remain pure by staying in
the Word and at the feet of Jesus, setting limits on our speech and behavior before getting into a situation,
realizing our value, and trusting God for our future. While the book is quite practical, it does an amazing job of
touching on the emotions girls go through in the teen years. It is challenging in that Dannah puts forth
relationship ideas that are not commonly seen in this world. But, that’s great because we need to constantly
remember that God’s ways and thoughts are higher than ours. I encourage teen girls and moms to read this book. I believe
it can be a healing and encouraging book for moms wondering how to talk to their daughters. Dannah is on the web at
purefreedom.com. She has encouraging words for girls through facebook as well. -Naomi Harrold - FCC Member
ejuvenate
Like it or not, we all live
in a rush, rush society; one where
every minute of the day must be
filled with three minutes worth of
obligations. I struggle daily with a
packed schedule and long for the
summer when I can possibly think
about slowing down.
Unfortunately, when many of
us, myself included, think about
slowing down, we tend to cut back
on more than just setting our alarm
clocks and crossing off a few
extra-curricular activities from our agenda. We also veer into a stagnant state in our
relationship with God. Maybe we take a break from worship time, Bible study and/or
even prayer time, when we should be thinking about how we can take the extra free
time and refuel, refresh and rejuvenate ourselves and our walk with Christ.
Rejuvenate:
1. a verb meaninga : to make young or youthful again : give new vigor to
b : to restore to an original or new state <rejuvenate old cars>
Wow! As I linger on that definition, I feel a bit downhearted. How can I, a busy
mother of 3 young energetic girls, a loving wife, a helpful daughter, a PTO participant, a taxi driver, a short order cook, a MOPS leader, an active church member, a
house cleaner, a financial advisor, a photographer, a party planner and a wearer of
many other hats, “rejuvenate” anything in my life in only a few short summer
months?!?!? I’m so tired and loaded down with responsibilities that nothing short of a
5 or 6 year hibernation could restore me to an original or new state.
As I dig into God’s word, it’s evident that downhearted is not what God intended
me to feel when hearing “rejuvenate.” I think His intentions were for me to feel a
tingle of excitement. He wants us to feel invigorated when we think about drawing
closer to Him.
“So I pray that God, who gives hope, will keep you happy and full of
peace as you believe in Him. May you overflow with hope through the power of
the Holy Spirit.” Romans 15:13 (NLT)
There are so many simple ways we can feel that tingle in our Spiritual lives, this
summer, while still “taking a break” from the hubbub of our typical days. Here are a
few of the ways I’m going to regenerate my excitement for Christ and prepare myself,
and my heart, for another busy fall.
eep a Prayer Journal I love to keep a prayer journal of my requests and answers from God. It’s
always exciting to look back through the pages and see where I have documented
God’s response to my requests. There is something about the tangibility of it that
refreshes my prayer time.
tart a new Bible study Change up your schedule and study something new and stirring to your heart.
Maybe you want to dive into the Psalms a little deeper or gather a group of friends
and share encouraging scriptures with each other. Choose something out of your
ordinary: a study by a new author, in a different location, about something you’ve
never considered before. Sometimes we need to “renovate” some things in order to
“rejuvenate!”
est with God Take some time to rest, literally. Lie down, close your eyes, and invite God to
consume your thoughts. Talk to Him, listen to Him, and maybe even sing to Him.
Just simply rest with Him. You will feel so refreshed and refueled after you spend
some relaxing alone time with God.
ast from media This is a tough one… but sometimes it necessary to remove all of the distractions, even those that we may typically use in our daily ministry. Try going
bare-bones, so to speak. For a suitable amount of time, use only your physical Bible.
Underline, highlight, laugh, and cry over the pages of God’s Holy Word. No iPads,
laptops, favorite Christian publications, radio programs, blogs, etc.…These things
certainly have their place, but sometimes they may inadvertently replace that
special time we need to have with God.
augh with friends, and enjoy God’s creation Woohoo! Barbeque time! Now this is one step in rejuvenation I won’t struggle
with at all! Throw a party, meet at the park with your kids, take a walk together, or
have a picnic. Find a way to spend time fellowshipping with other Christians, in and
out of church. Encouraging each other, laughing with one another and experiencing
God’s joy in friendship. Spend time with friends outside soaking up the sun and all
of the amazing things God has created. Fresh air is invigorating, and laughter
among friends in contagious!
Use your own creativity as you find ways to refresh your relationship with
God. Just remember, if we give God our time, He will fill our hearts with His love
and mercy, our heads with wisdom to manage our schedules better and rejuvenate
our souls.
By: Stacie Nichols - FCC Member
What were your expectations/hopes when
you went to Kenya last summer?
What is your favorite memory about
your trip last year?
I expected a real culture shock. I almost
expected to feel out of place, but the exact
opposite was true. I felt accepted and
welcomed by the people there.
Every day we would take a break from work
and have a Bible study with everyone. The
Bible was first read in English then in Turkanah.
Even though the languages sound completely
different they both had the same meaning.
Have your expectations changed when you
go back next? If so, how?
What advice would you share with the new
Kenya participants going in July?
Absolutely, last summer I expected to try to
change other people for Christ, but I wasn’t
expecting myself to be changed. I am anxious
to change others, but I am interested to see
how God changes me.
My advice would be to dive in head first. Get to
know people and experience all there is to do,
and remember who you are on this trip for, it’s
not for yourself. It’s for God.
What will you do differently on your next trip
to Kenya?
Being the shy kind of guy I am it took me a
while to really interact with people. So next
time I will really step out of my comfort zone.
Did you make any friendships in Kenya that you
are excited to return too?
Yes, there were so many wonderful people I
met. It seems like I leave a little piece of me on
every mission trip I go on. That makes me have
a longing to go back and see them again.
FCC Domestic Outreach (DO)!
July 20-21
Aug 17-18
Nov 9
Nov 14-17
Nov 20
Dec 2-5
Muslim Outreach Training w/Kevin Dooley & Don McCurry
Tito Pel Mission Update
Numana - Dodge City
International Conference on Missions - KC
Operation Christmas Child - Pack a Shoebox - Dodge City
Operation Christmas Child - Denver
FCC Global Outreach (GO)!
(Dates are tentative)
July
Sept
14-29
14-22
Kenya - Phil Scott
Haiti - Richard Crockett
Dec
TBA
Honduras - Richard Crockett
Feb 2014
TBA
India - Richard Crockett
Deadline is June 19 to sign-up
Deadline is June 19 to sign-up
Deadline is July 8 to sign-up
To sign-up for a Mission trip you need to
pick up an application in the church office
and turn it in by the deadline.
FCC GO! Trip Meeting - For Haiti, India, &
Honduras. June 19 at 6:00 pm in the MPR.
We will discuss passports, visas, immunizations, and culture aspect.
FCC GO! Meetings - These meetings are
for anyone who has a heart for missions and
would like to be more involved.
July 22 - Kevin Dooley Speaking
The thought of a day to do whatever we desire. Most generally women
would use it to shop, read, exercise, or enjoy a spa where men would use it to
hunt, fish, play sports, build something, or lounge in front of the TV. Kids on
the other hand would use it to make messes, relax, and enjoy not doing
chores. This got me to thinking about the different levels of rejuvenation. A
day to do whatever we desire would help us escape the rat race and enjoy the
day. The different pace would heighten our senses, give us a different
outlook, open our minds, and brings a swagger to our walk. The effects of a
one day rejuvenation only lasts for a short time and is a temporary fix.
The normal vacation time is 1-2 weeks per year. This is a time to escape
with our families or friends and enjoy exciting new adventures and new
places together. Although the effects of this extended rejuvenation period
are the same as the one day break, this level of a “physical energy booster”
holds special memories to be looked back upon.
Now let's flip the coin to the thought of a day to do whatever God
desires. Phil's sermon in April taught us the meaning of the word "uthus" as a
breathless energy. This energy rejuvenates at a deeper penetrating level. A
level that changes the course of our lives.
Since coming into a relationship with Jesus, I have experienced many "uthus"
days that have propelled my energy level, my vigor for life, and have heightened my senses. These experiences come with heartaches, tears, trembling
fear, surrender, and victories. Much like adrenaline junkies who do extreme
sports for an adrenaline surge but not without injuries and high risk. Uthus
junkies function the same way by living according to God's leading and
receiving breathless energy in the process but not without injuries and high
risks.
It was a spring brisk morning, Trey and I went rock exploring down a
country road. As we walked Trey stretched out his arms, bowed out his chest,
smiled and for the first time in his life he said "Mom, I am happy right now".
For a boy who didn't know the emotions of happy or sad this was a "uthus"
day. A day God reached down with the brisk morning breeze and sun-rays
touching our faces and introduced emotions to a boy and a breathless energy
surge to a tired worn out mom.
The thought of the days to do whatever we desire always leaves us
unsettled and wanting more. Those days tend to fly by so fast and puts a
yearning in our heart for more "me" days. At the end of the uthus days we
have a peace in our heart and flame burning for eternal things. The breathless energy propels us into the ultimate rejuvenation even despite the
injuries and high risks. I challenge you to enjoy all rejuvenation methods that
will heighten your senses towards God. God invites us to come to Him and
there we will find rest.
Christina McKinley - FCC Member
August 9 - 11, 2013
Cost: $100 - includes lodging, all materials, and meals
Encounter weekend is an opportunity to connect with other guys
just like you and to spend some time in self-examination to see
where you are in your walk with God. Over the weekend, we look
at 14 areas of our lives to discover specifically how God wants to
use us. We will experience worships, testimonies, teaching
and ministry times.
Contact: Rod Copeland @ [email protected]
I was born and raised in Bakersfield, California in a little neighborhood we called the “Okie”.
That was my home. I was not raised in the church.
My life seemed normal as a child. When I was
around eight, my mom filed for divorce from my dad
and by the time I was 12, I started making poor
choices. I got into gangs and shortly after that, drugs
where Meth and PCP were my choices of high. My
mentality as a teen was I didn’t care if I died and
went to hell because most likely all the homies
would be there too. So we could just all kick it
together. I was ignorant and lived that way too. At
the age of 18, I met Manuel and soon got pregnant
with our son. Although he slowed me down during
my pregnancy, I still continued to act like a fool.
When I was eight months pregnant, I put myself in a
situation that I was shot at while in my car. I tell you this is because a lot of things have occurred in my
life where I know I should not be here right now. I should be dead (in hell by myself) or in jail. That was
the life I led. I was full of unforgiveness, anger, and regret. After the birth of my daughter, I tried to do
things different. The problem was I tried to do it without God. I tried to love, but I didn’t know how.
My stepmother Yolanda is a Christian and after I had my children, we started building a relationship. She urged Manuel and me to get married. In 2001, we did. I went back to school, got my GED and
went on to be a Medical Assistant. Manuel, on the other hand, struggled with his addiction. He was not
able to stop and it began to take over our lives. In 2005, He came to me one day and said, “I’m tired. I
don’t want to do this anymore.” He told me he wanted a change and he had wanted to move to Dodge.
When we moved to Dodge, the meth came to an end but not the alcohol. He went on drinking
everyday. We tried to run from our problems instead of dealing with them. It was hard to try to act like
everything was okay, especially with the kids. I tried to make things as normal as possible. Manuel
never came out of the house after work except to go to the liquor store. We were always fighting about
something, mainly his drinking or money. It felt like there was a big dark cloud over us, weighing us
down.
April 2008, I decided I needed to go to church. I tried a few others before coming to
FCC. From the first day I walked through the door, I knew there was something
“I tried to love,
different about FCC. The kids enjoyed coming so it made it even better. I knew I
but I didn’t
wanted God in my life so after a few visits I decided to be baptized according to
know how”
scripture. After my baptism it was a struggle for me to get to church. I continued to
drink often. It was hard to let go of my old self. I didn’t know how.
On 11/25/08 I got a call that my dad was going on hospice due to the liver cancer he had been
fighting for months. Right away the kids and I went to be with him. His ankles were as fat as his thighs
due to his kidneys failing. There was no urine output in the catheter he had been wearing for days. His
skin was turning a bluish color. I felt like he was suffering, but he wasn’t.
He converted to a Christian when he met my stepmother. By that time, he had put his life in
God’s hands. He did not have to use any pain medication. I heard him on the phone telling someone
that he was just waiting for the time for God to take him home. It was so amazing to see how much
peace he had. The next morning, he went home.
It was time to come back to Dodge. Manuel’s dad, Joel, was out of work and decided to come
back with us. Joel and I did not have a good relationship due to an event from the past. I tried to let it
go and move forward, but he could not. Tension grew and that cloud got thicker and darker.
It was Saturday. Manuel, Joel, and I started to drink. I just wanted to be alone. I was thinking of
my dad and just feeling down. I turned to the bottle for comfort instead of God. Joel started bringing up
past issues. It soon progressed into an argument which turned physical between the three of us. The
last thing I remember is Joel pushing me down and threatening to kill me in front of Cheyenne. I praise
God the kids ran next door and the neighbors did not let them out. My anger rapidly turned into rage. I
honestly don’t remember what happened next. The next thing I do remember is sitting on the living
room floor sobbing and the cops walking in with guns and a police dog. I knew deep inside I had done
something horrible. The cops handcuffed me and escorted me out. As I was walking, I saw a puddle of
blood by the door and even more all over the front porch. They told me I was being arrested to aggravated battery and domestic violence. All I could think of was my kids. Then I started to think about
Manuel, my house, my job, my patients, my kids and their friends and teachers.
Sunday morning I woke up in a jail cell. I felt so ugly inside, so ashamed and
full of guilt. I can’t even describe it. How could I let things get so out of hand? “It was hard to
How could I do something so evil? Sunday morning I got down on my knees and
let go of my old
started crying to God for forgiveness. I did not deserve it, though. I promised
self, I didn’t
God and my kids I was done. No more drinking. A lady came that evening and
had church with me. It was the Sunday before Christmas and Manuel and I were
know how”
both in jail. Monday came around and I was getting ready to go to court but the
man told me I was not on the list. I was thinking I had to get out. What about my kids?
They were still with my neighbors. I didn’t think I was going anywhere for awhile but about half an hour
later he came and said, “Get your things.” I was leaving! They dropped all my charges, even the felony.
At that point, I knew God was in control. The following Sunday I went to church and went up for prayer.
I repented and rededicated my life to God.
Manuel and I had a big talk. I told him I was done with this lifestyle. We had hurt the kids
through our actions and it wasn’t worth it. He agreed. I talked to Phil and he encouraged Manuel and I
to get into a Bible study class and asked us to attend church every Sunday. It was part of our agreement. He offered to talk with us. The months following were not easy. Manuel quit drinking without the
help of rehab. He was a grouch but we dedicated ourselves to going to church every Sunday. We
started to meet our new family at FCC. God put mentors in our life to help walk and guide us on our
new journey. There are too many to mention by name but thank you for being faithful.
God says in Jeremiah 29:11: “For I know the plans I have for you, plans to prosper you, not to
harm you. Plans to give you hope and a future.” I believe that God had his hand of protection over me
all these years. He had a plan for me. He put people in my life that I didn’t realize at the time they
were planting his seed. He rescued my family and
me from the hands of the enemy, even when I
mocked him. You see, my sin separated me
from God. I was dead in my sin, committing a slow suicide. As I began to read in
his word and depend on him, he
“The
walls
of
began to do his work in me. The walls of
anger, hate and shame began to fall.
anger,
hate
and
He began changing my heart and teaching me new ways. He took the scars
from the past and has polished them to
make them shine for his glory. He has
shame began
removed the darken veil from my eyes
to see a brighter picture. At this point
to fall”
in my life I continue to work as a
medical assistant at Family Practice.
My husband and two children have been
baptized into Christ. I help in our youth
group. I feel that is where he wants me right now. I have a passion to reach our next generation and
lost souls. I have also been able to go to Honduras and share his word to children and work on projects.
I try to see everywhere I go as a mission field. He says in Ephesians: “For by grace you have been saved,
and that not of yourselves, it is the gift from God.” It is only through his mercy and grace that I am
here today and for that, I am grateful. He is making me a new creation. I now know that I am loved and
was created for a purpose. Although the road ahead is not clear, I know he is always in control. I want
you to know, my name is Leticia Lozano and this is my story. I love you and God bless.
By: Leticia Lozano - FCC Member
Camp Heart and Soul is
Searching for a Star!!
Children’s Dinner Theatre Kick-off
June 9 - 5:30 pm in the Chapel
All Children K-8th Grade are invited
to participate in this event.
Our Children’s Dinner Theatre
presentation will be August 23, 24 & 25
This is a family event. Mark your
calendars and follow us on facebook
and watch our website to be the first
one to get your ticket and come support
the children of FCC.
Luis, Brandon and their pet dog, Gitana are great friends. One day when walking through the
park they saw their friend George who looked mad. “Let’s go see what’s going on!” says
Brandon. Gitana and Luis follow Brandon over to George and ask “It seems like you are mad.
Can we help with anything?” George replies “I think I better go home…” Gitana asks “What’s
the matter friend. I’ll protect you!! I can eat whoever is teasing you!” “My parents won’t let me
take a bath with my pet, alligator. I really don’t want to go home!!” “You can’t do that!!”
exclaims Brandon. “Of course you cannot leave!!” Gitana adds. “Our parents are angels that
God has sent to so that they can guide us to know Jesus and take care of us.” George replies
“Thanks friends! I’m going home, the food should be ready by now.” “Food?! I am going with
you!!” Gitana screams as she knocks George off of his feet.
Parents should collaborate with God until the day comes when your children measure up to
the stature of the fullness of Christ. (Ephesians 4:13)
Do you want to be friends with Brandon, Luis, and Gitana?? Write them a letter! Watch for
your replies in the next magazine!! (Turn your letters into the church office!)
Office Address:
711 5th Ave
PO Box 1416
Dodge City, KS 67801
Call or Email:
(620) 227-8686
[email protected]
Office Hours:
Monday 7:30 - 5:00
Tuesday 7:30 - 6:00
Wednesday 7:30 - 6:00
Thursday 7:30 - 3:30
Friday 7:30 - 5:00