March / April Beacon

THE SAN ANTONIO

M A R C H / A P R I L 2019

Be A Light

No longer orphans Mark Lugo Ministries launches LIV San Antonio Still Water Camps: Breaking barriers with our youth 7 M arch / Apr il 2019

Life Choices: Offering life-giving women's health options 9

YMCA: Keeping up with the times, kids’ needs 11

Christian Assistance Ministry: The community’s emergency room 16

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King's Compassion Showing the love of God to our elderly poor 18

Verse By Verse Ministry International: Study the Bible with a smartphone app 20 1

HAPPY EA S TER

Easter is just around the corner.

This means special family gatherings, picnics and Easter egg hunts. It also means that churches are filled, perhaps more than at any other time of the year.

We are all on a spiritual journey and we are all in many different places in our journey. Some have “seen the Light” and by faith have received the free gift of salvation. Many are still on their journey to do so (or not to do so). Some know God personally through Jesus Christ. Many know about God but do not yet know Him personally.

This Easter season, we want to share the truth of Easter no matter where you are on your journey.

Jesus said, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.” That is a pretty serious statement. One that, especially today, could be incorrectly viewed as exclusive. But because this offer is available to all, it is in fact inclusive.

This offer is a free gift and not based on our efforts. Please don’t get us wrong.

We are thrilled that pews will be overflowing this Easter. However, going to church (seasonally or every Sunday) is not the way. A common western mindset

FROM THE BEACON

is that we somehow must measure up… you know… try and earn our way in by attending church or living a good life. It may be a great way to live but it can be found nowhere in the instruction manual and will never satisfy the penalty for us missing the mark.

The penalty for us missing the mark is death and can never be paid by attending church or living a good life.

That’s like trying to pay a speeding ticket with chocolate chip cookies.

They may be good, but the judge will require money because that is the penalty. The only way our penalty can be paid is death. And this is the reason that the Easter season is so special and so important.

On Good Friday, Jesus paid our penalty of death by dying on the cross on our behalf. The penalty was paid in full by the death of the perfect Son of God. He did not stop there. He is the only man who has conquered death. No other spiritual leader since the beginning of time can make this claim.

We mentioned earlier that we are all on a spiritual journey. We are not sure

where you are in your journey right now, but, we are certain of one thing. The free gift of salvation is available to all and the only thing any one has to do to receive this free gift is place their faith in Christ.

That’s it. You don’t have to go to church (although we still recommend it as you continue your journey). There is no list of things you have to stop doing or start doing first. You only have to place your faith in Christ.

This Easter season can be one you will never forget. Not because the brisket was good or the family got along, but because you placed your faith in Christ alone. A season where you stopped trying to earn it and just received it by faith. A season where your life will never be the same.

The ministries, businesses and churches in this issue of “The Beacon” represent the hands and feet of Christ.

They are all ambassadors to a world that is hurting and divided. Enjoy their stories. Be encouraged by how much they care and their adventures. But please don’t stop there. Support them with your prayers. Sacrifice some of your time to join them. Partner with them financially. They have trusted Christ by faith and because they love Him, they love others!

The Beacon Purpose

Connecting People to Purpose through Beacon stories.

Keeping you informed of local ministries, what they are doing and their need for additional help and resources.

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M a rc h / A p r i l 2 0 1 9

INSIDE

MARCH/APRIL 2019

Thank you to our local businesses who have partnered with us on the following Beacon Stories.

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LIV San Antonio: A vision to end child neglect in our city The Lugos explain how South Africa’s innovative vision could one day be San Antonio’s reality.

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Still Water Camps: Breaking barriers with our youth Status doesn’t matter at Still Water. Best of all, it’s a place where kids find what they are thirsting for.

STORY MADE POSSIBLE BY:

STORY MADE POSSIBLE BY:

Savior Properties

Altitude Trampoline Park

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Happening in the church Each church's DNA is unique. God is working in His church.

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Christian Assistance Ministry: The community’s emergency room CAM shares the love of Christ in immediate ways for people in crisis.

STORY MADE POSSIBLE BY:

John R. Hannah & Co., LLP and Punchdown Telecommunications

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Life Choices: Offering life-giving women’s health options Unplanned pregnancy?

Life choices is a fantastic option; they exist to give the best care possible.

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YMCA: Keeping up with the times, kids’ needs The longevity of the “Y” promotes the longevity of our community in customized ways.

STORY MADE POSSIBLE BY:

DOCUmation

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KSLR: Honoring pastors, empowering them with a fresh dose of courage KSLR’s heart: make pastors feel extra special. Their efforts were a smash hit.

STORY MADE POSSIBLE BY:

STORY MADE POSSIBLE BY:

Village Parkway Baptist Church

The San Antonio Beacon

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King’s Compassion: Showing the love of God to the elderly in San Antonio King's Compassion listens to, serves, and presents the gospel to our city’s elderly.

STORY MADE POSSIBLE BY:

Pride Floors and Construction

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Verse By Verse Ministry International: from humble beginnings to wide outreach Far reaches of the earth – and your phone: now destinations for deep Bible teaching from VBVMI.

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Tell your story A woman who thought she was without identity makes a wonderful and amazing discovery.

STORY MADE POSSIBLE BY:

AM 630 The Word KSLR

STORY MADE POSSIBLE BY:

Verse By Verse Fellowship

Be A Light.

PUBLISHER: The San Antonio Beacon PUBLISHERS: Claude Roberts, Duke Jonietz EDITOR: Jennie Rosio PRAYER DIRECTOR: Doug Fletcher WRITERS: Amy Morgan, Inez Kirchner, Renee Gonzalez, Dana Michea Marquez, Jennie Rosio, Richard Zowie PHONE: (210) 614-8885 ONLINE: www.saBeacon.com PUBLISHED: Monthly MISSION STATEMENT: Our mission is to use cause related marketing to promote partnerships between businesses, nonprofits, churches and schools by bringing awareness of the good news in our community in order to help change our city.

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From South Africa, with love: A vision to end child neglect in San Antonio

BY JE NNI E R O S I O BEACON EDITOR

The numbers of neglected children in San Antonio may live in the shadows of our society, but they are fully visible to their Creator in heaven.

If you were to take all of the neglected children in Bexar County to the AT&T Center and give them a seat, they’d fill about a third of it. Anais Biera Miracle, Chief Public Relations Officer at The Children’s Shelter, says that in 2018, Bexar County confirmed 5,865 victims of child abuse and neglect. Averaged, that equals 16 cases every day of the year. Currently, about half of those go to a relative or another caregiver. But the other half – a little over 2,500 – are placed in foster care.

“The demand for foster care grows in Bexar County,” says Anais.

Help may be coming from an unlikely place: South Africa, where, according to the UNICEF website, 3.7 million orphans reside. Tich and Joan Smith are founders of the Lungisisa Indlela Village (LIV) in Durban, South Africa. They visited the United States last spring to share their vision. Their project is chronicled beautifully on 4

YouTube’s “LIV Documentary Feb 2016.” It brims with innovation, joy and life.

The video pans across a sprawling expanse of land where clusters of red houses – 96 in all – dot the green grass in Durban, South Africa. The camera follows the children alongside their “uncles and aunties” – and house mothers. All these specially vetted people dedicate their lives to raising former orphans. The camera follows the children to a room where the brothers and sisters receive top education and sports training. We then see little ones painting and playing together in another room. In another room the camera shows the LIV health care center which provides social services, health care and therapy. “At the center of it all,” the young narrator proclaims, “is the LIV church.” In this multi-pur-

“ Pure and genuine religion in the sight of God the Father means caring for orphans and widows in their distress and refusing to let the world corrupt you.” – James 1:12 pose room, not one face in the church looks glum; every child and every adult is dressed in many colors and dancing.

The camera then pans back outside – over local South Africans working hard in gardens. Then we pan back inside to see women sewing with machines, while the narrator explains how the center creates jobs for the locals.

Mark and Veronica Lugo, founders of Mark Lugo Ministries, were captured immediately by the video.

“It’s the six minutes that changed our lives forever,” says Veronica.

The South African Center has been

Tich and Joan Smith, LIV Founders; Mark and Veronica Lugo, LIV SA Executive Directors and Athi and Chester Koyona, Durban LIV Executive Directors, gathered recently together in Africa.

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Thank you Anonymous Partners and Savior Properties for making this story possible to share.

changing lives since 2011 when the first mothers and children were admitted. “So we’re doing life here together,” says Joan near the close of the video.

“We just see God doing so many miracles in the lives of the children, in the lives of the mothers, in the lives of the workers and even in our lives,” says the co-founder. “Our lives have been changed forever.”

Mark and Veronica Lugo have been bringing the love of Christ to children and youth for almost two decades in the states and could not turn a deaf ear. “We knew because of our outreach ministry there were fosters and orphans out there, but we didn’t realize there was a crisis in San Antonio.”

A wide range of experiences have brought Mark and Veronica up to this point. Through the inspiration of their pastors, Rune and Berta Brannstrom, Camino Creek Mobile “ When you walk Home Park was forever changed starting in 2010. the grounds, there’s not an “Through this – when we started doing communi‘orphan spirit’ ty outreach – we saw that the children were there.”

– Veronica Lugo the first to respond.” By the end of that summer, says Mark, “We were baptizing in the pool. A hundred people came to the Lord.” (In fact, they were featured in "The Beacon," October 2018, for their wonderful outreach to these young neighbors.)

Over a year ago, Mark and Veronica established Mark Lugo Ministries (MLM) as a nonprofit designed to bring San Antonio together to advocate for urban missions and reach the disadvantaged children and teens in our community. Through “Impact Radio,” which airs on KDRY AM 1100 Sundays at 2:30 p.m. and 10 p.m., they began highlighting San Antonio residents pursuing urban missionary work. Through it they met a multitude of people, interviewing government officials, professionals and ministry leaders.

It all came together: MLM seemed like the perfect “horse” which could draw the “carriage” which carries the vision for a hopeful, innovative community called LIV San Antonio M arch / Apr il 2019

remembering that faith and works go together, they began taking steps to travel. “And through “ Over Christmas, that, it was like the we spent two floodgates just opened,” Veronica weeks in the adds. Then, she says, future.”

“Everything else came – one of Mark and in. We were at the Veronica’s sons airport – getting a notification on our phones that we received a big bank deposit from – someone. I still don’t know to this day who it was.”

The vision for the innovation was there in front of them in South Africa.

“You feel like you’re in a big family there,” says Veronica. “When you walk Members of LIV children's choir bring joy to their audience.

which will bring hope to our community’s abused and neglected children.

“We prayed about it; we talked to Tich and Joan about it,” says Veronica. And that’s when the South Africans gave Mark and Veronica this advice: first, get an intercessory team together.

Mark, Veronica and others have been praying ever since with a group at 7 a.m. on “ The importance Mondays. of innovation in Praying with them are their driving better pastors, the outcomes for Brannstroms, children cannot who remain spiritual mentors be overstated.” and have been – Andrew Brown, given LIV San Director for Center for Families and Children at Antonio board the Texas Public Policy positions.

Foundation On August 26, 2018, Mark and Veronica were ordained, via video conference with Tich and Joan and some other spiritual leaders, including the Brannstroms – to open up a LIV village in San Antonio.

Mark and Veronica and their two sons left for the LIV village over the 2018 Christmastime. They were all amazed at God’s works from the moment their travels began. First of all, says Mark, “We didn’t have enough money to go to South Africa.” But, w w w.sa B e a c o n .c o m

A majority of evangelical churches do not have organized, sustainable, intentional ministries aimed at making sure foster and orphan kids are nurtured.

LIV Founders Tich and Joan Smith along with several LIV kids enjoy some South African sunshine.

Visit YouTube's "LIV Documentary Feb 2016" for a great video about this amazing village.

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LIV San Antonio www.marklugoministries.org/ liv-san-antonio www.facebook.com/LIVSanAntonio PO Box 1232 Lytle, TX 78052 (956) 398-4655

Be A Light.

LIV's children enjoy a little free time between classes and chores.

the grounds, there’s not an ‘orphan spirit’ there. They don’t call them fosters or orphans. They are taught that God is their Father, and they are no longer orphans.”

Mark’s vision for LIV San Antonio mirrors the South African model with its emphasis on providing security, unconditional love and holistic approaches, which will affect the next generation.

They are praying and believing for a 100 acres of land on the The first south side of San Antonio.

He is collaborating with need: the Texas Department of 100 acres Family and Protective of land. Services’ faith-based specialist, Hope Shelton, to learn how organizations like LIV San Antonio can provide for children in foster care, and has some classes scheduled to learn more.

His hope: one day in San Antonio there will be kids who are no longer neglected but instead have a family from day one. All the children there would be able to attend classes at the LIV San Antonio school. He even foresees allowing the students to take advantage of broadcasting experience by using their radio platform and attending a performing arts center, playing sports and going to a trade school. He envisions a place where the

Mark, Joseph, Benjamin and Veronica Lugo are ready to expand LIV's vision from South Africa to San Antonio.

children can receive special therapy through interventions like an equestrian center – and thrive from good food and excellent medical services. All of this would give them a future instead of feeling lost with no direction.

All of it is a little daunting and only something God could accomplish.

That’s the very reason Mark and Veronica are all in!

As Tich and Joan said to Mark and Veronica, “You’re exactly what we’ve prayed for because you will rely completely on the Holy Spirit.”

“And that’s what we’re doing,” says Mark.

He envisions a place where the children can receive special therapy through innovative interventions like an equestrian center.

Children at LIV's ECD Center enjoy a little story time together.

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Pray. Intercede, asking for guidance in translating South Africa’s pioneer vision to a workable LIV San Antonio. Give. Contact Mark and Veronica to set up a meeting to talk about this amazing vision. The greatest need now is land. Use the QR code above to donate. Checks to: LIV San Antonio; PayPal: www.marklugoministries.org/ liv-san-antonio. All funds will be directed to the children. Learn. Visit the Facebook page or feel free to connect with Mark and Veronica to learn more and to catch the excitement for this vision. Host. Bring Mark and Veronica to your church, Sunday school class or small group to share.

STORY MADE

POSSIBLE BY:

A N O N Y M O U S PA R T N E R S A N D

www.saviorpropertiestx.com saviorpropertiestx@gmail.com (210) 971-8899 701 S Seguin Rd, Converse, TX 78109 Facebook: @saviorpropertiestx Instagram: @saviorprop • Twitter: @saviorprop

Savior Properties provides the BEST service and solutions to our clients and customers.

When partnering with us for your real estate needs, you’re getting a professional who knows the market and will give you the information you need so you can make an informed decision independently. If we’ve done that, our job is complete and our mission is accomplished. We understand that life happens and some situations seem impossible to get out of. We want to give you the peace of mind knowing that whatever is stopping you from getting what you need or want will be handled by our experienced team of professionals.

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Still Water Camps Breaking barriers to reveal the truth of the Lord

BY INEZ KIR CHNER BEACON WRITER

What do you thirst for?

This is the defining question and the anchoring scripture at the Still Water Camps in Blanco, Texas and Harper, Texas.

For 18 years, more than 12,000 campers have encountered this question and for some, the question leads to meeting Jesus for the first time.

Still Water Camps offer high-quality youth camp experiences despite income, background, or walk in faith. “Eleven summers ago, I started as a camper, and Still Water is how I came to know the Lord,” says Dempsey Warren, Still Water’s Director of Marketing and Ministry Development. So goes the story of many of the youth Still Water has reached, with nearly 50 percent of its high school staff made up of former campers.

“ This is more than just about money.

We can paint a diverse picture of God’s kingdom.”

– Dempsey Warren, Director of Marketing and Ministry Development

Jasmine Jacob was also eternally changed at Still Water. “The Lord used Still Water to show himself five years ago. Still Water has brought me people who teach me how to love and who walk life with me. Praise the Lord for the work He is doing M arch / Apr il 2019

through this ministry,” she says.

Still Water began in 2001 with one boys’ sports camp at a rented facility and has since expanded to include a home of their own, Knott Creek Falls, and various camps offering sports, adventure and leadership skills for girls and boys aged 6-18. The camp challenges every camper to engage in God’s Word and self-reflection to discover strengths and encourage others.

Christians and non-Christians are invited and welcome to the camp that is highly intentional in its faith-based programming and activities. “We certainly don’t water down the truth of the Lord,” says Dempsey. “Whether the kids can directly spot it or not, everything is tied to the gospel.” Daily activities include prayer, Bible study, sports lessons connected to scripture, and even the “Golgotha Run.” With two-byfour planks on their backs, the shadow of the cross is reflected as campers participate in this run. Through this experience, campers identify strongly with Jesus’ crucifixion and sacrifice for them. All campers receive a clear invitation to accept Christ. They’re w w w.sa B e a c o n .c o m

given additional guidance to navigate the Bible and walk in their faith after camp. Still Water is moving into a campus ministry that is interacting with and encouraging students throughout the year.

“ It’s why I have such a big heart for this ministry; I’ve seen the eternal ramifications of providing a safe place for everyone.”

– Dempsey Warren, Director of Marketing and Ministry Development

Bridging the gap between the “haves and have-nots” is a pillar of the mission. According to the Still Water Camps website, more than 1.5 million Altitude Trampoline Park, we believe we have a “ Atresponsibility to give back to the community which supports us. The sheer numbers of customers we serve puts us in a high-profile position in our city.

This enables us to make a difference. We serve children and support positive social growth and active entertainment. Still Water reflects these same values. I admire their efforts and encourage others to join Altitude in supporting their cause.

”

Lane Hudson, Owner Altitude Trampoline Park

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Thank you Altitude Trampoline Park for making this story possible to share.

children and teens are living in poverty in Texas and more than 65,000 children and teens are confirmed victims of child abuse. To address these and other social issues, Still Water ensures that 50 percent of campers are self-paid, and 50 percent of campers attend on “ We certainly scholarship each week. don’t water The camp works with down the truth local afterschool programs and other of the Lord,” nonprofit ministries says Dempsey. where students are “ Whether the invited to learn more kids can directly about the camp.

“Neither the gospel nor spot it or not, sin discriminate,” says everything is Dempsey. “This is more tied to the than just about money.

We can paint a diverse gospel.” picture of God’s kingdom.” Anyone can sponsor a camper for a weeklong camp for $600.

The camp’s history is filled with stories of campers from all walks of life. Together, they see how their similarities outweigh their differences and leave camp with a life-changing perspective. Dempsey and her best friend that she met from camp came from entirely different sides of the economic spectrum. Years later, they both work in ministry and have been part of each other’s major life milestones. “It’s great to be in the front row and see what God has done in her life,” says Dempsey. “It’s why I have such a big heart for this ministry; I’ve seen the eternal ramifications of providing a safe place for everyone.”

As Still Water grows, goals include investing in even more kids year-round

through campus ministry and enhancing their adventure camps. On-campus activities, sponsored by public school teachers and coaches include “Chalk Talks” and Bible studies consisting of games, skits, and walking through the gospel.

Still Water will also focus on securing more church and school partnerships. “Partnerships with schools and churches are so essential to us because they help us find the kids who need scholarships and give us resources like volunteers,” says Dempsey. Each camp season, Still Water fills more than 300 staff and volunteer roles. Many campers and staff come back to Still Water year after year. There’s an 80 percent staff return rate. This enables campers and camp leaders to grow together.

“We see kids with custom-embroidered swim trunks alongside kids who can’t afford sheets come together to become best friends,” says Dempsey.

“This is an opportunity to expose campers and volunteers to all different kinds of lives in a controlled, safe environment. We provide an experience to kids who wouldn’t normally have it, and see how God cares so deeply about all of them.”

There is still room to book your children. And there is always time to send a child to camp through a scholarship. Let’s make this year Still Water’s best year ever!

Be A Light.

Donate. Sponsor a camper for $600 per weeklong camp! Change a life forever.

Online: www.stillwatersportscamp.com at the orange “donate online” button. Still Water cannot operate without donations.

Volunteer. Each camp season, Still Water fills more than 300 staff and volunteer roles. Encourage a young adult to apply.

Visit www.stillwatersportscamp.com and find the summer staff tab. Sign up. Parents of non-scholarship campers can register campers. Anyone can learn more about the unique weeklong, faith-based camps at www.stillwatersportscamp.com. Summer camps begin in June 2019. Nominate for a scholarship. If your ministry, nonprofit, church, or school supports youth, contact Still Water to partner and nominate kids for a camp scholarship.

STORY MADE

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Altitude Trampoline Park www.altitudesa.com 11075 IH-10 W Suite 126 | SAT 78230 (210) 697-5867 info@altitudesa.com Altitude Cares. Altitude Trampoline Park is a locally-owned business committed to giving back to the San Antonio community. Since we opened in May 2015, we have partnered with numerous local nonprofit organizations to establish long-term initiatives.

Please consider us for your next party, company gathering or special event.

“

As a father, I see my children are influenced by being a part of something bigger than themselves. Still Water offers this opportunity. In listening to the stories of young people whose lives were touched by their experience at Still Water, I was moved by their efforts and touched by the number of lives they are changing.

Supporting Still Water offers us a unique opportunity to contribute to an organization that has proven results in changing the trajectory of the future leaders of our community.

”

Still Water Camps www.stillwatersportscamp.com 624 N Main, Boerne, TX 78006 1 (888) 361-2631

We are #1 in San Antonio for birthday parties for a reason!

Lane Hudson, Owner Altitude Trampoline Park Campers pray at the cross during the Golgotha Run.

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M a rc h / A p r i l 2 0 1 9

Offering life-giving women’s health options

BY AM Y M O R G AN BEACON WRITER

It’s tempting to mourn over the passage of Reproductive Health Act on Jan. 22 in New York. While sorrow and grief are warranted – especially since we know illegal third-term abortions have been happening all over the nation – there’s hope. While the deaths are tragic beyond imagination, the Holy Spirit springs up at special places like Life Choices Medical Clinic.

Life Choices, formerly known as Agape Pregnancy Help Center, is one of several San Antonio ministries offering hope to women facing unplanned pregnancy. In 2011 the ministry’s vision expanded to include medical services like sonograms and sexually transmitted infection testing and treatment. Leadership decided the name Life Choices Medical Clinic better reflected the scope of services available. Now Life Choices has become San Antonio’s resource for life-affirming, comprehensive women’s health care.

“Life Choices is truly the option for women’s reproductive health,” says Charity Farrar, who has been the clinic’s Executive Director for the past 10 years.

“We love our women, and our men, and M arch / Apr il 2019

we want the best for them. We care deeply for them, and we are here to help them make decisions they can live with.”

All of that love has produced the fruit of health and life. Charity inspires the clinic’s 30 staff and volunteers who served 5,696 people who walked through Life Choices’ door in 2018. Of that number, 165 clients participated in health or parenting classes; 896 took advantage of the material assistance program to earn diapers, wipes and baby items; 402 came for professional counseling; 402 received prenatal care and 1,109 came in for women’s health care unrelated to pregnancy.

The ability to provide medical services whether or not a woman is expecting is a distinguishing This patient received free characteristic of service and support.

Life Choices.

Life Choices enabled her Although they do to deliver and parent her baby. offer pregnancy testing, their well-woman care extends to diabetes and hypertension management, thorough lab work, professional counseling and treatment for depression and anxiety, pap smears and breast exams (not mammography). Most services are free, but the remainder are provided at extremely low cost. w w w.sa B e a c o n .c o m

a church that takes a stand for truth, we are overjoyed “ Asto partner with and support the ministry work of Life Choices. The vast services they perform in our community are impossible for a church to undertake, thus the importance of our congregation and others standing with them.

The results Charity and her team are providing speak for themselves – over 5,500 people served and over 3,000 babies saved! I challenge other congregations to prayerfully consider joining us in supporting the life-giving efforts of Life Choices.

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Pastor Steve Branson, Village Parkway Baptist Church, Board Member Life Choices

Cases of syphilis, chlamydia, and gonorrhea are at epidemic levels, Charity says. Life Choices provides testing for those diseases, as well as hepatitis, herpes, trichomoniasis and HIV. After testing, medical professionals offer treatment for “everything that is treatable,” she adds. “We help our health department look after our population.

“The age group that’s at highest risk for an STI are 16 to 26-year-olds. Our society has told our children it is ok to do what makes you feel good – there are no consequences for your actions. Until they hit my door – and then there are big consequences,” she adds.

Other services include parenting education, fatherhood classes, community referrals and education, Bible studies and assistance completing Medicaid and Healthy Texas Women applications.

Everything is offered with love and compassion, Charity says. Staff and 9

Thank you Village Parkway Baptist Church & Anonymous Partner for making this story possible to share.

volunteers are not shy about we are their first line of sharing their Christ-centered defense rather than their last worldview. They discussed call. And it’s even better if they spiritual matters with 2,398 can avoid a crisis pregnancy in people last year, of whom 119 the first place. If every woman made a profession of faith. could delay conception until The women get fabulous she is part of a couple ready to care here, Charity adds. She care for a family, babies would recounted the recent case of never be in jeopardy of being one of their patients, a mother aborted.” of 10, four of whom are foster Charity has plans for 2019 or adopted children. The that include partnering with woman works a full-time job other directors of similar This little girl is just and attends school while her clinics to replicate Life one of the hundreds of husband cares for the children. precious babies who Choices’ medical model across have been born as a She presented with recurring the state. result of support in the blood in her urine. Life “Taking back life in Texas is name of Christ from Life Choices’ something people can get Choices Medical Clinic. “ Come take a tour medical staff really excited about,” she says. and then tell was able to “We understand as goes Texas, discover a mass on her so goes the nation. If we are going to everybody you kidney using the clinic’s make an end to abortion, we have to know about ultrasound machine. start that in Texas.” what a fantastic The patient had no Life Choices Medical Clinic remains insurance, but Life in its original location at 3234 Northministry we Choices helped her western Drive, close to Ingram Park Mall, have here.” apply, completed all her although they have expanded to encomlab work and solicited a pass 3,200 square feet. They’ve already urologist to remove the kidney laparooutgrown that facility, says Charity. They scopically when the mass was diagnosed likewise have outgrown their donor base as cancerous. Now she is back to her and actively seek financial support. family, to work, and able to finish school. Material donations help too. Churches “It was an absolute miracle!” Charity and groups can sponsor a diaper drive. exclaims. “She had no place to go – if she “There are never enough diapers and hadn’t come here, she would have died. wipes – especially sizes five and six,” We are in the business of saving life – she adds. inside the womb, outside the womb, it “I love when people see God at work doesn’t matter – life is valuable.

– nothing ignites your passion and “We are here to rescue babies from commitment more,” she adds. “Come abortion and help women make better take a tour and then tell everybody you choices,” Charity continues. “But we know about what a fantastic ministry know women need to have really good God has here.” health options to make good health While there is a spiritual battle for the choices. We hope to build a relationship lives of our children, Life Choices made a with them and instill the love of Christ significant difference by saving the lives before they get pregnant, so should they of 3,018 babies. still end up in an unplanned pregnancy, The Easter season is all about the resurrection message: from death to life.

Life Choices is living out the resurrection Life Choices speaks the truth in love to expectant mothers message on a daily basis with the women so they can make the right decision regarding the life of they serve and the lives of their unborn. their unborn child. Adding medical services and counselConsider teaming up with Life Choices' ing for women has only added to the impact they are volunteers and staff to bring a real resurhaving in our community. We need minisrection message; see our “Be A Light” tries like Life Choices to act as the church section, and pray about how God's Spirit for those who are hurting and making could work through you today. life changing decisions. This ministry

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exemplifies the love of Christ.

www.lifechoices-sa.com (210) 543-7200 3234 Northwestern Dr. San Antonio, TX 78238

Be A Light.

Learn. Visit the ministry website and get inspired. Tell. Tour the facility and ignite your passion to be a voice. Volunteer. Ask how you can become an advocate for life and enlist others to help. Pray. Pray for the ministry to continue to thrive and reduce the abortion rate in our community. Give. Life Choices Medical Clinic invites you to partner with them financially so even more women and babies can be served and saved.

STORY MADE

POSSIBLE BY:

A N O N Y M O U S PA R T N E R A N D

Village Parkway Baptist Church www.vpbc.net 3002 Village Parkway San Antonio, TX 78251 | (210) 680-7813 To revive the believer. To reach the lost.

We are unashamed of who Jesus is no matter what happens in the world. We stand firm on the truth that Jesus Christ is the only answer to what is happening around us. In the midst of all the anger that is running throughout our nation, we ask you to join us and to stand firm on the truth that the only hope for our nation is Jesus Christ. We look forward to you joining us for a service.

”

Pastor Steve Branson, Village Parkway Baptist Church, Board Member Life Choices

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Life Choices Medical Clinic

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M a rc h / A p r i l 2 0 1 9

MORE THAN A GYM MEMBERSHIP YMCA keeps up with the times, kids’ needs

BY RI C H AR D ZO W I E BEACON WRITER

Since 1876, the year of America’s centennial celebration, the Young Men’s Christian Association has been serving youth in San Antonio.

Today, the association is better known as the YMCA, or, for short, “The Y.” It serves men and women, boys and girls in both San Antonio and Greater San Antonio.

YMCA has four locations inside Loop 410, four inside Loop 1604, and three in Greater San Antonio. They

also have three early learning centers, 54 school-aged childcare sites, and one program center for medical-based wellness.

Besides the local locations, YMCA also has a summer residence camp in Hunt, near Kerrville.

Stephanie Chavira, Director of Marketing and Communications, says the YMCA takes a customized approach. Each location in the Alamo City is tailored to the individual needs of its local customers and neighborhoods, and the YMCAs in San Antonio are different from the ones not only in other states, but also in other Texas cities.

Across the board, every YMCA has the same mission – to put Christian principles into practice through programs building a healthy spirit, mind and body.

The Y’s offer programs such as adult fitness (personal training, Pilates, yoga, races, water exercises, martial arts and adult sports) and various programs for children, including swimming and athletics.

“The Y is adapted to the community needs,” says Carrie Bair-Norwood, Senior Vice President of Financial Development. “We evolve as the

community evolves. We rebranded in 2011 into these three areas: Youth Development, Social Responsibility, and Healthy Living.”

More than just sports, Youth Development programs are open for everyone regardless of their economic standing. One facet, Y Achievers, provides speaking and learning events as well as help with office attire and budgets. Teaching kids about office attire shows them how to dress for the occasion: in mock trials in the Youth and Government program, the kids dress like lawyers in The YMCA unites the court.

“Youth Government community through involves 40 kids who Síclovía, which are learning about the serves 120,000 justice system and mock trials,” Stephanie annually. says. “Power Scholars Academy keeps kids safe during the summer months and offers educational help to keep them sharp until the next school year.”

Stephanie says Youth Development has the idea of helping kids to mature and develop into responsible citizens.

“We have programming that’s very well known to the community,” she says. “These include swim lessons and TM

Bikers roll through the streets of San Antonio during Síclovía.

Youth learn cooking skills at Mays YMCA. M arch / Apr il 2019

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Thank you DOCUmation for making this story possible to share.

after school programs. As a nonprofit, we’re helping to close achievement gaps and to nurture potential. To us, each youth program has its own impact. We serve all communities but focus on the underserved. In the summer, when the students have no access to meals at school, we provide healthy lunches at no cost.”

“We help children learn, grow and thrive through childhood and become positive, productive adults serving our community,” says Carrie.

That also includes “learning events,” where kids can get mentors, tutoring, and college and career readiness.

The YMCA teaches kids about the social responsibility of giving back to the community by partnering with other nonprofit efforts.

The prime example of this is the annual Síclovía (Sick-low-vee-a) Event.

It's San Antonio’s largest health and wellness event. They hold it twice per year, and it serves 120,000 people annually.

Stephanie says the event originated in Colombia. She described it as a time the streets are opened up for people to walk, bike, run, skateboard or walk their dogs.

“This allows residents to get to know the city from a different viewpoint,” Stephanie says. “It’s closed to cars and motor vehicles. We work with local business and nonprofits, and introduce the community to them. The route is six miles, round trip, and we use it to talk about health and wellness. It’s a free event.”

Besides being a place known for exercising and recreating, the YMCA also has a Healthy Living program. It focuses on financial classes, lifestyle changes and nutrition education and physical activity to address chronic disease.

I love about the YMCA is their shared value in “ What commitment to community. Their programs serve the needs of our community, both child and adult. From child care, sports, and leadership development to fitness, family camps, and wellness, they have something for every member of our community. Without the YMCA, many parents wouldn’t have access to programs like this. It’s important we support the organizations that allow our community to thrive.

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”

Preston Woolfolk, Co-President DOCUmation

It also offers a program on diabetes, that has attracted 300 participants and is still growing.

Lifestyle change programs help people deal with stress, mental and emotional issues and in getting into better physical shape.

Carrie says the YMCA has two teaching kitchens.

“It’s also healthy lifestyle and cooking and is open to families so they can do things together and bond,” she says. “They learn and cook together.”

This is a beneficial program, Stephanie says, because it helps navigate the stigma that healthy foods are more expensive.

“We work with them on meal plans to fit their budgetary needs,” she says.

“We introduce new healthy foods into their lifestyle, as opposed to packaged or fast foods.”

The YMCAs, evidenced by the “C” in in their name, also have a chaplain on duty to provide prayer and insight.

with the YMCA for several years “ Wenow.haveThey’repartnered more than just a client to us. They are essential for the health of our community and children. We love everything they stand for and we try to do what we can to bring light and awareness to the services they offer.

”

Hunter Woolfolk, Co-President DOCUmation

Be A Light.

Give. The YMCA relies on fundraising.

It focuses on individuals and company support and has a $1.8 million fundraising goal. The funding will help with capital projects, such as Phase Two at the Boerne YMCA. The plans include an outdoor pool and gym with expanded indoor space.

Other projects include an all-inclusive baseball field and playground at Cibolo, field renovations at the Mays Family YMCA at Stone Oak and reinvesting in infrastructure and expansion in San Antonio. Volunteer. YMCA also relies on volunteers. They are needed for the fundraising campaigns, Síclovía, advocate work and in youth sports. New YMCA on the way. San Antonio’s 12th YMCA slated to open in early July, in Cibolo.

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Boerne Family YMCA 820 Adler Rd., Boerne, TX 78006 | ph. (830) 815-1040 Davis-Scott Family YMCA 1213 Iowa St., SAT 78203 | ph. (210) 532-0932 D.R. Semmes Family YMCA at TriPoint 3233 N. St. Mary's, SAT 78212 | ph. (210) 246-9622 Harvey E. Najim Family YMCA 3122 Roosevelt Ave., SAT 78214 | ph. 210-538-0555 Mays Family YMCA at Stone Oak 21654 Blanco Rd., SAT 78260 | ph. (210) 497-7088 Mays Family YMCA at Potranco 8765 Hwy 151 Access Rd., SAT 78245 | ph. (210) 901-6622 Schertz Family YMCA 621 Westchester, Schertz, TX 78154 | ph. (210) 619-1900 Thousand Oaks Family YMCA 16103 Henderson Pass, SAT 78232 | ph. (210) 494-5292 Walzem Family YMCA 5538 Walzem, Windcrest, TX 78218 | ph. (210) 656-5777 YMCA Youth Development (Day Camps, After School, Y Early Learning Centers) 231 E. Rhapsody, SAT 78216 | ph. (210) 924-2277

DOCUmation provides IT, print and software solutions to businesses and nonprofits throughout Texas. As a company that values character, community and customer, our goal is to provide service that serves.

We want what we do to not only serve our customers needs, but also our community’s needs. Giving back creates a ripple that can reach places you never thought possible.

Every time we partner with a nonprofit, we uphold our commitment to leave our community better than when we started.

Each year, DOCUmation proudly supports nonprofits throughout our community.

When you partner with us, you support them, too.

DOCUmation

www.mation.com ph: 210.341.4431 info@mation.com

Camp Flaming Arrow 190 Flaming Arrow Rd., Hunt, TX 78024 | ph. (830) 238-4631 www.ymcasatx.org

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M a rc h / A p r i l 2 0 1 9

Keynote speaker Michael Youssef leads San Antonio area pastors in a prayer of commitment.

KSLR AM 630 The Word hosts Michael Youssef at luncheon Honoring pastors, empowering them with a fresh dose of courage

BY JE N NI E R O S I O BEACON EDITOR

Recently at the TriPoint building on St. Mary’s, coming from the Grantham Ballroom, you could have heard the claps, whoops and hearty cheers of “Amen!” – at times, almost above the sound of the treadmills at the YMCA down the hall and around the corner.

Was it an Aggies-Longhorn game? It sounded like it, but it was more than that. It was the sound of hundreds of battle-worn San Antonio pastors being encouraged.

Ron Walters, Senior Vice President of Ministry Relations of the Salem Media Group, welcomed the group with their reason for the event. “It can’t happen in San Antonio without you and your team,” he said. “I hope you feel spoiled to death.”

KSLR’s Director of Marketing and Promotions, Jan Johnson, said this event has been going strong for almost two decades. “It’s not just a sales event to sell them on the radio station; it’s M arch / Apr il 2019

for them to know we’re here to support them. This year, we had 119 churches represented and 89 of those were brand new and had never come to a pastor appreciation event before,” she said.

Dr. Michael Youssef, the 70-year-old founder of Leading the Way Ministries, did not disappoint with his dynamic message of hope. For It was the all of his experience and education (with sound of a Ph.D. from Emory hundreds of University and battle-worn degrees from Fuller San Antonio Seminary and Moore Theological College), pastors being he was self-effacing encouraged. from the starting gate. “I’m a one-trick Charlie. I don’t know how to do pop psychology. I don’t know how to do motivation. The only thing I know is to open the scripture,” he said.

Yet, motivate he did. A few battle stories from his own experience set the stage as he empathized with pastors ministering in current culture.

“Several years ago, I was invited to w w w.sa B e a c o n .c o m

give the invocation at a big gathering in Washington, D.C.,” he started to explain. The invitation was given by a politically and economically conservative group; still, he asked the president of this organization three times: “Are you sure you want me to pray?” Each time, he got green lights.

At the end of his message, Michael prayed in his usual way. “I pray in the strong and mighty name of Jesus, the name above all names. And at the name of Jesus, every knee shall bow and every tongue confess, Jesus Christ is Lord.”

Tables were decorated beautifully with special care to honor the pastors.

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Michael Payne, General Manager at KSLR, expresses heartfelt appreciation to San Antonio area pastors.

Michael said when he walked back to his seat, he could “feel the ice cracking” under his feet. The president of the organization, who’d been friendly at first, froze over. Michael’s peppering of cordial and conversational questions offered to this organization’s president were answered only in grunts. Finally, the leader burst out. “Why did you have to use that name? This is a very controversial name, and you shouldn’t have mentioned it. You have created a division.”

It’s against this backdrop that it becomes tempting for pastors and any believer to be ashamed of the gospel and blunt its edges. “That is why Paul is saying in Romans 1:16, ‘For I am not ashamed of the gospel because it is the power of God unto salvation for everyone who believes.’”

The 30-year forerunner of Leading the Way ministry says he’s also seen many godly influencers who lose their way because they do not have a vision for life, which spirals them down into discouragement. Experience taught

him this arduous lesson. “Do I get discouraged and disappointed? You better believe it. It’s what I call the Elijah syndrome,” he said, referring to the story in Elijah in I Kings 19. “When you have God’s vision, you will overcome discouragement.”

Grace Redemption Community Church Pastor Carlos Duran attended with his wife Arielle, after starting a church the first Sunday of 2019. “It was actually one of my greatest moments because I never thought I would get to hear one of my mentors,” Carlos said, adding that he’s long been a fan of Michael Youssef.

Pastors of Living Word Christian Fellowship, David and Pam Crocker, enjoyed it also. After 10 years of ministry, “The word of encouragement from Michael Youssef was paramount,” said Pam. “His wisdom warmed my husband’s heart and mine to know that we are responsible to carry the Word of God without watering it down.”

We were tired and weary; we give back to our congregation with our all. Today we were refreshed and inspired by the word of Dr. Youssef.

We made new friends.

– Pastor at the appreciation event for the first time

A letter Jan shared said it all. After the event, she read this pastor’s letter to us: “Today was a glorious day for me and my wife. We were tired and weary; we give back to our congregation with our all. Today we were refreshed and inspired by the word of Dr. Youssef. We

Pam Crocker of Living Word Christian Fellowship said that the outreach booths were a wealth of information.

made new friends. In fact, the pastor of a church down the street from our church – whom we’d never met – was sitting next to us at the table! We’re now going to get together and meet for coffee and see how together we can reach our community. This is an event no pastor should miss.”

Thank you, KSLR, for deeply caring for our spiritual leaders and our community. Your love was truly appreciated by all who attended.

Be A Light.

Pray. Your pastor's job can seem overwhelming. Intercede daily and fervently for your pastors. Pray through Romans 1:16 against discouragement; pray that your pastors would have a courageous heart for the gospel.

Treat. Consider treating your pastor and their spouse to dinner or a refreshing get-away. Encourage. Speak to your pastor and let them know that they are making a difference. Or send them a card, encouraging them to continue to be bold and stand strong.

AM 630 The Word – KSLR

www.am630theword.com 9601 McAllister Freeway, Suite 1200 SAT 78216 | (210) 344-8481

San Antonio area pastors enjoy fellowship together.

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M a rc h / A p r i l 2 0 1 9

Happening in the church

Trinity Baptist Church is a high-trust adventure. We are a caring family of believers, communicating and applying the life changing message of Christ’s unconditional love in San Antonio and in regions around the world. Together we help seekers become believers and believers become disciples.

As a faith family, we make four promises with one another: “I will grow in love. I will grow spiritually. I will grow in friendship and community. I will grow by sharing my talents in ministry with others.”

Here is a glimpse at what God is doing at TBC: A senior law student shared her testimony with us during her baptism, saying, "My calling is to let Christ’s light shine from me.” A five-year old girl proudly claimed her place and people: "This is my church.” Youth, college students and young adults are saying, “We grow in Christ by being a part of Trinity.” A member texted, “We feel so lucky to have landed at TBC, and to have a church family. The words of encouragement and prayers we have already received have been humbling and overwhelming.” We invite you to come partner with us and what God is doing in our church and our city!

God has been working in and through our congregation in amazing ways. We recently started a Senior Adult Ministry which tries to meet the various needs of older people. We have many events where a meal is served and we provide most of our own entertainment. Many American senior adults lead lonely, unattached lives. Don't be lonely or bored – come play, and live with us!

God has also allowed us to open a ministry to Arabic speaking Christians. We launched the Arabic Baptist Church of San Antonio which meets on Sunday evenings. The local congregation is growing weekly, but what is really encouraging is to see how many people are catching the Sunday evening services through Facebook Live.

Our Wednesday night Men’s and Women’s Bible studies are thriving, as well as our Royal Ambassador, Girls in Action, and AWANA children’s groups. Our Student Ministry is gearing up for summer camp, as well as preparing to join our Honduras medical mission team leaving in June.

We are thankful for the opportunities God has brought our way and look forward to serving Him in the days ahead.

We would love to have you join us for worship, especially this Easter! Please visit our website to find our worship times and services. You are welcome at Village Parkway Baptist Church!

Trinity Baptist Church www.trinitybaptist.org • 319 E Mulberry Ave • SAT 78212 (210) 733-6201

Village Parkway Baptist Church www.vpbc.net • 3002 Village Parkway • SAT 78251 (210) 680-7813

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BY INEZ KIR CHNER BEACON WRITER

If you break your leg falling off a ladder, the next decision is easy: get to the ER. But what if your crisis is emotional, spiritual or complicated?

“When you’ve just had a job loss or your husband has left you, you don’t know which specialist to see. You go to the ER who says ‘yes’ to your health crisis today and then gets you longterm help,” says Dawn White-Fosdick, executive director of the Christian Assistance Ministry (CAM). “CAM does this for life crises.” “ When you harvest CAM’s mission is to share the love the crops on your of Christ by providland, do not cut all ing immediate the way to the assistance and corners of your field. encouragement to people in crisis.

Don’t pick up the The people who grain that falls on benefit from CAM’s the ground. Leave it services may be experiencing a for the poor…” one-time crisis or – Leviticus 23:22 something more long-term due to poverty, mental or physical illness. Or, maybe they are just in need of mercy, 16

Ruby came into CAM with her mom.

They needed food and help to pay a high utility bill. Ruby’s mom worked but was struggling to make ends meet. We were also able to sign up Ruby for our Annual Back to School program saving her mom over $100 on school supplies, backpack, underwear, socks, shoes and school uniforms.

Ruby is one of approximately 14,000 children that CAM serves annually often with very basic needs like underwear, socks, baby formula or diapers.

and will need a lifetime of help.

More than 42 years ago, nine churches in downtown San Antonio banded together to leverage their efforts and resources to address the grave social ills in the local community.

When a homeless man was found dead on one of the church’s doorsteps, the churches asked how they could make a difference not only abroad, but also in their neighborhoods. How could they do better?

Decades later, the mission of CAM remains the same, and its network has grown to more than 80 churches in the greater San Antonio area. They serve w w w.sa B e a c o n .c o m

50,000 people annually. CAM offers food, clothing and basic necessities, as well as resources to pay a bill, fill a prescription or get IDs and other documents. CAM even provides a free mailbox for those who don’t have a physical residence. Christ is always at the center and CAM’s services offer true grace in action.

Mary Ellen, a former client, came to CAM when she was homeless and benefited from clothing, financial assistance, and spiritual guidance. She now has a job and her own apartment.

Sonia was a young, single mother in need of diapers and food. She is currently a CAM volunteer and gives back what was given to her. “When I came here it wasn’t just the assistance – it was the love of Christ that made an imprint on my heart,” says Sonia.

Telecommunications believes we have a “ Punchdown responsibility to bless others in our community. That is why we partner with and are thankful for CAM. They touch lives in powerful ways every single day.

They are on the front lines and often the first stop for those that face unimaginable situations.

Please join us in supporting their efforts. Together, we can change even more lives!

“

Randy Ramirez, Owner Punchdown Telecommunications M a rc h / A p r i l 2 0 1 9

Most mornings, people are lined up before the doors are open at CAM.

“CAM’s unique in that we don’t have specific criteria or barriers that could prevent getting help,” says Dawn. “You don’t have to be a believer or to prove you’re worthy by showing paystubs or even make an appointment.” Instead, CAM staff and more than 200 volunteers not only meet the immediate need but sit with clients to hear their story and share their concerns. “This conversation is an important part of the process, because we may determine they need more – or something different they’re not aware of because they don’t know how to ask. We listen and help them navigate the process to access ‘specialists,’” says Dawn.

The “specialists” are the countless nonprofits and churches partnering with CAM on a referral basis to help those in need long-term. “A nonprofit When a homeless worker might help a client gain some man was found professional training, dead on one of the but notice they’re not church’s doorstep, focused on their job search because they the churches asked need to feed their children or pay a utility how they could make a difference bill, so they’re directed to us,” says Dawn. in their own “Almost every nonprofit in town neighborhoods. knows that CAM should be the first step of the wrap-around service someone’s receiving.”

A common misconception, says Dawn, is that many of CAM’s clients have abused drugs or made other destructive life decisions. “While we certainly see those clients, 75 percent of our clients are working poor – a single working mom or family. There are many reasons people find themselves in unfortunate situations.”

Much like an ER, services at CAM are limited. The goal is that clients will M arch / Apr il 2019

eventually progress and no longer need help. “It’s another misconception that people abuse our services,” said Dawn.

“We generally don’t see clients multiple times.” A quarter of CAM’s clients, however, simply need ongoing mercy.

CAM offers daily lunches and other services for those whose circumstances are unlikely to improve, like the mentally ill and elderly.

During its 40th anniversary in 2017, CAM unveiled its 10-year vision, which includes partnering with businesses and residents near San Antonio’s revitalized downtown. CAM wants to be a community hub for people to “give

“ We trust God brought them in for five minutes, an hour, or a few times a year, and our purpose is to share Christ’s love.”

– Dawn White-Fosdick, Executive Director

where they live.” CAM hopes to serve more by creating a “ministry-in-a-box” model for other nonprofits and churches to duplicate. CAM envisions increasing the number of people served through new donors, volunteers, and satellite locations.

Christian Assistance Ministry www.cam-sa.org 110 McCullough Ave., SA, TX 78215 (210) 223-4099

Be A Light.

Give. CAM’s greatest need is monthly, ongoing financial support. Visit the donate tab on the CAM website to give. Volunteer and Participate. CAM offers daily volunteer opportunities as well as various annual events including donation drives and fundraising events. Contact 210-2234099 to inquire or click the “Volunteer” and “Events” tabs at the CAM website.

STORY MADE

POSSIBLE BY:

John R. Hannah & Co., LLP Certified Public Accountants (210) 226-9247

Punchdown Telecommunications www.punchdowncommunications.com 8023 Darkwood | San Antonio, TX 78250 (210) 685-4060 Over 200 volunteers serve in daily shifts to keep the doors open. They sort clothing, interview clients, and stock groceries.

“People want you to have answers about the people you’re serving and the results of your efforts – but we don’t always have the answers,” says Dawn.

“We trust God brought them in for five minutes, an hour, or a few times a year, and our purpose is to share Christ’s love. We know He has a plan for every person, and we’re just part of it.”

CAM invites you to be part of the plan too! w w w.sa B e a c o n .c o m

No matter what type of business you have, communication is extremely important.

Large or small, you want to be sure you can communicate with other team members, clients and the rest of the world. That’s where Punchdown Telecommunications comes in!

We have the tools and know-how to ensure that your system is functioning properly and that it is optimized to maximum efficiency.

To learn more about voice cabling or data infrastructure installation, please give us a call today.

17

King’s Compassion Ministry restores dignity

Showing the love of God to San Antonio’s elderly poor Rose and Robert treat the elderly served

by King’s Compassion as if they were their own family members – even taking them to doctors’ visits or helping complete paperwork.

BY AM Y M O R GA N BEACON WRITER

Almost 20 years ago, God dramatically grabbed Robert Reyes’ attention.

It all started when his wife, Rose, was knocking on doors in San Antonio’s Southtown community, connecting poverty-stricken residents with helpful services and resources for a local nonprofit. Robert will never forget the day he decided to tag along – mostly to provide protection and companionship as Rose was going to start knocking on doors. It was Halloween 1999.

What he found changed the direction of his life. He and Rose realized the elderly poor were the most appreciative of their efforts and the most desperately needy.

“An elderly person doesn’t want you to leave,” Robert says. “They just want you to talk to them. After that Halloween day, something happened in the heavenlies. I said, ‘I can do this!’” Robert exclaims. Instead of playing golf, Robert found himself heading to the neglected neighborhoods west of King William on weekends and after work to visit an ever-increasing number of homes.

“They captured me, they mentored me, they ministered to me,” he says.

“This is who God called us to touch.

Now all I want to do is help, serve and make a difference.”

What started as visits to a few destitute seniors broadened to providing care for dozens of disadvantaged elderly living in San Antonio’s poorest zip codes. In 2011, the Reyeses completed the 501(c)(3) paperwork to officially begin King’s Compassion ministry, which provides practical help like mowing Volunteers working with King’s Compassion paint a house for one of their elderly clients.

The ministry has painted six houses so far.

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Rose helps one of the elderly served by King’s Compassion celebrate a birthday.

grass, performing home repairs, delivering food, clothing and toiletries and providing companionship to those over 70 whose income falls below the poverty line.

Their ministry is named King’s Compassion because of two plays on the word King. Their last name, Reyes, means kings in Spanish. The King also refers to King Jesus.

The kingdom, so to speak, keeps expanding. In the past year, they delivered 1,000 bags of groceries, soap, paper goods, and toiletries in more than 500 personal visits.

Volunteers raked 300 bags of leaves, mowed 150 lawns and made 100 minor home repairs.

Every summer, King’s Compassion marshals a small army of volunteers to paint the exterior of a client’s home – six so far. One recipient, Esther, told Robert she wanted her mobile home to be painted so she could be ready for her departure (to her heavenly home).

King’s Compassion also distributes food on the first Saturday of the month, including deliveries to several elderly homeless people not served elsewhere.

The Reyeses have been told, “You are my angel! You do more than my family does,” Robert says. “They consider us their family,” Rose adds. “When I see of our mission at Pride Floors and Construction is “ Part to give back and bless ministry efforts in our community that we are passionate about and align with. This is true regarding King’s Compassion. The elderly in our community are often forgotten. I have seen Robert and Rose walk out their calling for many years and have firsthand knowledge of their servant hearts towards the elderly and the difference they are making. I encourage you to support and partner with King’s Compassion.

“

Richard Cavazos, PresidentMPride Floors and Construction, LLC. a rc h / A p r i l 2 0 1 9

a Christian company, we believe we have a responsibility to help make our “ Ascommunity a better place. We feel it is important for us to share our time, treasure and talents with those on the front lines that are impacting lives. King’s Compassion is doing that every day and we are honored to partner with them in changing the lives of the elderly in our city.

“

Richard and Andrea Cavazos, President and Vice President Pride Floors and Construction, LLC. Volunteers load the truck for a monthly grocery give-away, which provides food and paper goods not covered by food stamps to the elderly poor.

their smiles, I am paid,” Robert agrees.

King's Compassion makes sure the elderly are loved, listened to, served and presented the gospel in the last years of their lives. The Reyeses report most of their elderly have come to know the Lord through their association with the ministry.

“Sometimes we need to be able to show people Jesus through the practical – by bringing them groceries or cleaning something for them,” Rose says. “Everything is unto the Lord. We are his representatives; what we do brings value, love and compassion. We tell them ‘If you have a relationship with King Jesus – you are never alone.’”

“You have to look past the dirt and find the soul in there. I’ve been inside some houses – no human being should live like that,” Robert says, with visible emotion.

Mama Harvey is a living Despite an example of the ministry’s accident on a impact. The 88-year-old ladder 20 years widow, who lives close to ago, Robert helps paint the the AT&T center, had been exterior of a scammed by thieves who house for one of the elderly clients failed to fix her dangerously served by King’s damaged floor and stole Compassion. her bed. King’s Compassion cleared out her home, fixed the floor (with donations and help from ministry supporter Pride Flooring), exterminated vermin, and even found her a bed.

“She became one of our dear ones,” Rose says.

All the items or services provided by King’s Compassion are completely free to their clients, which is why the ministry relies on funding from generous donors and volunteers to help do the work. The Reyeses run everything out M arch / Apr il 2019

of their home. Their biggest need is a 1,000-foot warehouse in which to keep their tools and materials. That space would also allow them to store food, which would qualify them to be distributors of donations from the Food Bank instead of purchasing the food they allocate. They seek helpers who want to share their skills or talents. King’s Compassion can accommodate volunteers of all ages from church or home school groups.

“Every time we get a youth group in

here we tell them every volunteer is a fresh gust of wind in our sails. We hope and pray after they come and help they will see their grandparents and great grandparents differently,” Robert says.

“The elderly are so neglected, so abused, so forgotten. We get to show them they are loved and cared for,” Rose says.

“The only thing I regret,” adds Robert, “is that I should have started this sooner.”

STORY MADE

King’s Compassion www.kingscompassion.org kingscompassion@gmail.com (210) 325-3184

Be A Light.

Visit. Search for the ministry website and learn more about King’s Compassion.

Invite. Tell your church, Sunday school class, small group, bible study or business to learn about the plight of the elderly poor and invite Robert and Rose to speak.

Volunteer. Come to help alone or with your small group or a bunch of youth to pack or deliver food or mow a lawn. Learn.

Find out how to paint a house or complete light home repairs. Pray. Intercede for the ministry to continue to thrive and bring love and dignity to forgotten elderly in our community. Call. Contact Robert or Rose at 210-325-3184 if you own or know someone that has warehouse space to donate. Give.

King’s Compassion invites you to partner with them financially through monthly donations. In addition, you can donate time, food, toiletries, or paper goods so their resources can be stretched farther and further into the community. w w w.sa B e a c o n .c o m

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Studying the Bible is a lifelong journey Christians are commanded to take and Verse By Verse Ministry International is here to help you along the way. Download the free smartphone app to access all of our resources anytime.

Verse By Verse Ministry International From humble beginnings to 350 downloads on smartphone apps per day

BY JENNI E R O S I O BEACON EDITOR

In 2003, Stephen Armstrong invited some office buddies to begin a Bible study. Now almost 16 years later, people from all over the U.S. and 200 other countries join his studies – in person, via smartphone apps, and website videos.

How did this happen? Participants in early years loved the little study and Stephen’s deep, verse-by-verse approach. They realized that finally, someone was showing them answers to the hard questions about their lives – based on the Scriptures. They felt freedom flowing into their hearts and relationships.

Pastor Armstrong has taught through more than 45 percent of the Bible. Each study has audio and notes.

Some studies include videos and handouts, as well.

Access for free online or via the Verse By Verse Ministry International's app.

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Along the way, someone suggested that he start a podcast. This led to free podcasts – then free online videos and notes. Curiosity seekers would try a few lessons and they were hooked. Ministry leaders, believers and unbelievers asked for more.

“People have started to feel a hunger and a thirst for the meat of scripture,” says Kathryn Bashaw, Operations Director of Verse By Verse Ministry International (VBVMI). Spiritually related teaching in our culture, she says, has tended toward feel-good messages which lead people into searching for deeper insights.

Kathryn recalls, “He was doing this because he’s passionate and gifted in his teaching. Then he began getting checks in the mail.” The 501(c)(3) status followed shortly after.

In 2013, Verse By Verse Ministry was rebranded to add “International” to the name. They also added social media. The Facebook following alone is now over 75,000, says Kathryn.

Half of the Facebook followers live outside the United States. This is thanks to Stephen’s wide travel (60,000-plus miles in 2018 alone) and thanks to teams who help worldwide where Stephen has brought his teaching to them.

“Tony Lee is our director in Asia,” says Kathryn. “He goes from Singapore to the Philippines to Taiwan. He runs all of the Asia operations, mobilizing his volunteers to get the word out.”

“Fede Acuña is our Director of Central America,” adds Kathryn. He translates the resources into Spanish for his audience. When Stephen comes to speak w w w.sa B e a c o n .c o m

in Costa Rica, Fede is the translator.

Ottar Graasvoll, based in Norway, is the Director of Europe. “Stephen often travels to Norway and teaches church members and leaders how to study the Bible – and how to teach the Bible,” says Kathryn.

The ministry’s leadership in New Zealand has a fascinating history.

“Stephen went to New Zealand to do a

Verse By Verse Ministry International’s mission is equipping the saints for the work of ministry and reaching the unbeliever with God’s truth. Pastor Armstrong baptizes a new believer who is ready to start his walk with the Lord.

big Bible teaching seminar. He met a gentleman named Tom Carey who said, ‘I used the Verse By Verse Ministry International's iPhone app and found a way to make it even better.’ So Tom just created his own app and showed it to us!

We were like, ‘Wow! That’s amazing. We would love for you to remake our app.’

Now he contracts as our software development director.” Now the app is uniquely nimble for on-the-go use and tracks each user’s Bible study progress.

The ministry even reaches into the remotest parts of the world, where Bible teaching is often non-existent. VBVMI resources are being taught in Arab countries, where new converts crave God’s truth.

M a rc h / A p r i l 2 0 1 9

The goal of scripture is not just that we learn what it says, but that we learn who God is.

– Stephen Armstrong, President of VBVMI and Senior Pastor of Verse By Verse Fellowship

Download VBVMI's free 12-week Bible study curriculum.

It's perfect for small groups or individual study and comes complete with workbook and videos.

STORY MADE

POSSIBLE BY:

Pastor Armstrong teaches the Bible verse by verse in its original and theological context, breaking down Scripture in a way that is easy to understand and easy to see how it all fits together into one amazing story.

The small beginnings and loyal following in San Antonio led to the birth of an allied ministry, Verse By Verse Fellowship, in January 2018. It meets on the corner of Nakoma and Highway 281.

Its membership has exploded, going from zero to 250 members in one year.

Stephen Armstrong is the senior pastor.

He spends 20-30 hours a week reading and studying the Bible because, as he says, “That’s what “ I was amazed at how it takes to know much I have learned the Word of God.” about judgment, Taking time to know the Word of redemption, the God has yielded Suffering Servant powerful results. and God’s ultimate Viewers worldlove for us. Your study wide absorb more than 1.5 million has unlocked one of minutes of VBVMI the Bible’s greatest teaching each mysteries.” year. Thus far, – Richard, VBVMI reviewer, Stephen has regarding the book of Isaiah taught more than 45% of the Bible. Their message reaches churches, homes and communities, teaching books of the Bible verse by verse – along with topics like “End Times,” “Creation” and “How to Study the Bible.”

Stephen also answers individual questions from people who wonder about difficult Bible passages or life’s dilemmas. With the approach of Easter Sunday, April 21, some questioners say it seems odd that Christians worship Someone whom they claim rose from the dead. Stephen insists: “This is not an ancillary issue. It is the issue – if Christ did not rise from the dead as He M arch / Apr il 2019

promised to do, then Christianity is a complete fraud.”

Why don’t you check it out for yourself this week? Visit VBVMI at www.versebyverseministry.org. In the search bar on the landing page, type: “Proofs for the Resurrection.” Learn of Jesus’ confirmed death on the cross, how the disciples couldn’t have hidden Him, and why the weight of historical evidence points to His resurrection. It might change your life, too.

Verse By Verse Ministry International www.versebyverseministry.org PO Box 702107 | San Antonio, TX 78270 (210) 319-5055

Be A Light.

Try. Visit Verse By Verse Fellowship on a Saturday night at 5:30. Or start studying via www.versebyverseministry.org – your best choice for free in-depth Bible teaching at Tell. Tell ten others about your experience.

Give. VBVMI ministries never solicit funds but many give after they’ve fallen in love with the studies. Donate to the ministry by accessing www.versebyverseministry.org/donate when you are convinced. Share. Ask Stephen to speak at your church to spread the blessing of the online resources. w w w.sa B e a c o n .c o m

Verse By Verse Fellowship is pleased to partner with VBVMI to make this story possible. Our vision is to create a community dedicated to growing in the grace and knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ, equipping one another to reach the world for Christ and living with eyes for an eternity with Christ.

Verse By Verse Fellowship (VBVF) is the result of a church planting effort by Verse

By Verse Ministry International (VBVMI), a non-denominational, Bible teaching ministry headquartered in San Antonio, Texas, featuring the in-depth Bible teaching of Pastor Stephen Armstrong, founder of VBVMI. The ministry is committed to providing compelling, verse-by-verse teaching of God’s word at no charge (2Cor 2:17), thus ensuring the whole counsel of God is proclaimed (Acts 20:27).

We believe that when the Bible is taught methodically and properly, good things happen: lives are changed, relationships are restored, marriages are strengthened, addictions are cured, ministries begin and souls are saved.

Verse By Verse Fellowship www.vbvf.org 551 E. Nakoma Drive | SAT 78216 (210) 460-7556 Visit Verse By Verse Fellowship on Saturday nights at 5:30.

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T E L L YO U R S TO RY

My entire life has been without an identity My grandparents adopted me from their eldest daughter when I was baby.

Therefore, my mom became my sister; my grandparents, my mom and dad. As far as my biological father went, I never knew who he was until I was eight years old.

Or so I thought.

“Hi, Michea, I am Mike, your dad!

You can call me Mike!” the voice on the other side of the phone said.

The first half of my life was a mixture of phone calls, letters and gifts. Never once did we meet in person. There was always a nagging feeling in both of us: “Was I his daughter?”

That question remained unanswered.

Mike died in November of 2017 – without knowing if I was his daughter.

In 2018, a long-lost sister from my mom’s side found me through online DNA. My husband and I visited my long-lost sister in Virginia that summer. Her husband did genealogy as a hobby. He had an extra DNA kit. After some thought, I spat in the DNA tube and my brother-in-law mailed it. He shared with me, “You already know your mom’s side. Through process of elimination, you can find your dad.

I’ll help you!”

By the time I got back to San Antonio, the results were in. The first thing that hit me was my ethnicity.

I always grew up thinking I was Native American. How wrong I was! There was not a Native American bone in my body. My results came back: I am 50 percent Greek. My dad’s DNA! My brother-in-law directed me to upload my DNA to MyHeritage.com.

This time, six family members on my dad’s side came back as matches.

I reached out to one cousin. She 22

we can do better than that!”

We gave each other a bigger hug.

“I will be back!” he reassured me before he walked inside to catch his plane home. I can't wait!

My dad also got to meet his son-and-law and grandson.

Dad and I enjoyed the Riverwalk at Christmastime.

STORY MADE

thought it was a scam until I sent her the DNA results and a selfie. She wrote back immediately, “Sweetie, I know who your dad is. Welcome to the family!” I started crying.

I found out my dad’s side of the family knew the Lord. My uncle was a missionary to the Turkish Muslims. He translated the entire New Testament into the Turkish language before he died in 2010. I also have a 93-year-old praying Yaya (grandmother) who lives in Greece. I have a brother and I am the only daughter.

My dad and I met for the first time on Saturday, December 9, 2018. At the end of our weeklong visit, we gave each other a hug and turned to go our separate ways. Before he went inside, he called, “Michea, come here, w w w.sa B e a c o n .c o m

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M a rc h / A p r i l 2 0 1 9

John R. Hannah & Co., LLP Certified Public Accountants

We at The Beacon are touched by the number of businesses in our community supporting ministries. These causes are making an eternal difference in the lives of so many in our city.

We encourage you to thank and support the businesses represented in this issue of The Beacon. When you do business with them, you too are a difference-maker in our community! Be A Light.

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M arch / Apr il 2019

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