Summer / Fall 2021
Youth Pastor Joshua Aguilera and his wife Jeannette surrounded by the young people of Revive Yth.
Our Youth in Action!
31st 31 st Stewardship Missions Conference
EPIC Sanctuary Renovation
The Class of 2021
THE INTERNATIONAL MAGAZINE OF REVIVAL CENTER - MODESTO, CALIFORNIA
THE NEWSVINE
EXTENDED VERSION
“Every page an altar to His works!” SUMMER / FALL 2021 REVIVAL CENTER UNITED PENTECOSTAL CHURCH
A WORD FROM THE EDITOR
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“Is there no balm in Gilead; is there no physician there? Why then is not the health of the daughter of my people recovered?”
825 7th Street, Modesto, CA 95354 Business Phone: 209-522-5365
EDITORS
ASST EDITOR MULTIMEDIA BUSINESS LIAISON GRAPHIC DESIGN PHOTOGRAPHERS CREATIVE TEAM COLUMNISTS YOUTH REPORTER MAILINGS DISTRIBUTION
LEO AGUILERA VIRGINIA AGUILERA
Tim Warren Charlene Wilson Leo & Virginia Aguilera Leo Aguilera, Grover Hunt Gabriel Chavoya Tim Warren, Joshua Aguilera, Autumn Amador, Alexis Diaz, Jocelyn Powell Carol Castillo Alexis Diaz Virginia Aguilera Norbert Feliciano
CHURCH STAFF PASTOR H. TODD JOHNSON BISHOP RANDY G. KEYES
ADMINISTRATIVE PASTOR - JONATHAN QUINONES YOUTH PASTOR - JOSHUA AGUILERA
PULPIT STAFF MINISTERS Dana Le’Blanc Uday Narayan CHURCH SECRETARY RESIDENT MISSIONARIES K.R.E.W. KID’S MINISTRY PRAYER MINISTRIES MUSIC MINISTRY WORLD MISSIONS LIGHTING, GRAPHIC ARTS WORLD MISSIONS LIFE GROUPS PUBLIC RELATIONS APOSTOLIC MAN MINISTRY B.U.F.F.(MEN 50+) HYPHEN (YOUNG ADULTS) THRIVE (YOUNG MARRIEDS) SPANISH MINISTRY NURSING HOME MINISTRY BIBLE QUIZZING GROWTH TRACK
Jerry Powell Jonathan Quinones Jeremiah Williams Charlene Wilson Uday Narayan, Xenn Seah Sujay Diaz, Mary Aguirre Charles & Joyce Bispo Kellee Hopper, Matt Aguirre Nancy Holston, Tim Montes Jerry & Andrea Powell MaKayla Johnson Jerry & Andrea Powell Jonathan Quinones Jeremiah Williams Alex Diaz Herb Jenkins Chris & Lindsay Castro Chris & Lindsay Castro Antonio Gutierrez Joyce Jones Sujay Diaz Dana Le’ Blanc
SERVICE TIMES SUNDAY - 10:15 a.m. 10:30 a.m. 12:30 p.m. 12:30 p.m. MONDAY - 7:00 p.m. WEDNESDAY - 7:00 p.m. THURSDAY - 7:30 p.m. FRIDAY - 7:00 p.m. SATURDAY - 10:00 a.m.
Pre-service Prayer Morning Service - Sanctuary, KREW Growth Track - Youth Chapel Spanish/English Service - Sanctuary All-Church Prayer Mid-Week Service, KREW Spanish Service Revive Yth (Youth Service) Saturday Morning Outreach
THE NEWSVINE is published quarterly by the United Pentecostal Church of Modesto, Inc., 825 7th St., Modesto, CA 95354-3414. Postage paid at 825 7th St., Modesto, CA 95354-3414. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Newsvine, 825 7th St., Modesto, CA 95354-3414. Any submitted articles to The Newsvine are subject to pastor’s approval and editing by The Newsvine staff.
2 SUMMER / FALL NEWSVINE 2021 •
Overcoming COVID-19
JEREMIAH 8:22
I
INFECTION!
t started with a sore throat the first Tuesday of September. Thinking that it might be a summer cold coming on, I took three Vitamin C pills to maybe knock it out, but the next morning the sore throat was beginning to be uncomfortably irritating. As the day progressed, I knew I had caught something, but I was determined to go to mid-week service that evening. Around 5:00 p.m. I decided to get on the treadmill for about forty minutes before I would shower and dress for the 7:00 p.m. service. After an old man’s speed of 3.4 mph, I felt something hit me like I never felt before. I told my wife Virginia, “Wow! I feel really yucky! I don’t think I should go to church tonight if I have something catching.” She ordered me to take my temperature. It was 101 degrees. She noticed my symptoms of slight congestion and dizziness, then dared to suggest, “Do you have COVID?” How could that be? My wife and I, along with several elderly couples in the church, had been fully vaccinated with two doses of Pfizer. That was seven months ago in January and February. I had heard through the news media there were breakthrough cases occurring for those vaccinated. For some the immunity was wearing off. Was I one of them? We stayed home that evening, my wife taking precautions to avoid being exposed to whatever I had caught. That night, I slept feeling miserable. The fatigue set in, and I began to monitor my oxygen intake as I woke up through the night. Those readings were normal, but I continued having a fever when I got up the next day - my birthday. This was no common cold and the flu-like symptoms intensified to where I only wanted to sleep. My son Joshua and his wife Jeannette were joining us for dinner that evening, but those plans were canceled. At midday my sense of smell left me. I still was hoping this was a summer flu, but this bout was by now the most severe that I could remember. That evening my wife picked up a COVID test kit at the local Walgreen’s. I tested positive. Kaiser, my health provider, would confirm the positive result when I tested with them later that week. I felt a depression set in, and in the wee morning hours of Friday, I’ll admit I felt a moment of surrender, “Lord, take me, I’m ready!” It was just for a moment before I prayed and encouraged myself to place my faith in my Healer, my Lord Jesus! Friday night, the fever broke. I began to feel better by Saturday morning, and some of my sense of smell returned. My doctor’s office stayed connected, and his staff encouraged me with a prog-
ALERT: To our faithful readers, after 32 years we are going completely digital! All future NEWSVINES will be available only online. Please send us your personal emails, or pastors, send us your church emails to thenewsvine@gmail.com. When future issues are available, we will automatically send the link to the email you provide. You may also access any future NEWSVINES by googling: the newsvine and following the prompts. There will be four issues per year: the first week of January, April, July, and September for those who google us. Our staff are committed to these dates. Thanks for your support! THE EDITORS nosis of a quick recovery, since the vaccine was preventing my symptoms from lingering and worsening that would result in hospitalization being required. I never had any respiratory problems and no infection spread into my lungs. The vaccine kept the battle of the infection in my nasal cavities. I had no headaches, no joint pains, no persistent coughing or sneezing, and no nausea or diarrhea. Remarkably, my wife never got infected. How was I blessed not to have worse symptoms? I am overweight (though I regularly exercise and diet), prediabetic, and I have high blood pressure. I am on medications for both health issues. But my recovery was quick, and my doctor said I had a mild case. I cannot deny the tremendous amount of prayers said on my behalf from church members, my immediate family, friends, and concerned relatives. I praise my Savior for His divine touch. My faith kept my stress level low and allowed me to recover without complications. But there is a lot to be said about heeding your personal physician, taking medications when needed, and immunizing your body with available vaccines.
“PHYSICIAN HEAL THYSELF.”
When Jesus quoted the above words as a popular saying in Luke 4:23, He was acknowledging the challenge of His critics to perform miracles of healing in His hometown, but the popular saying originated with the meaning we should take care of our own defects. It was attributed by the ancient Romans to the “Father of Medicine”, Hippocrates: “cura te ipsum” (physician heal thyself). Not every time will we receive divine healing when we are ill. Many holy saints, even in youth, have passed on because a miraculous healing did not happen. You can quote this editor as saying, “Your body will kill you, if you let it!” We exercise, we diet, take aspirin for a headache, why? Because we are entrusted by our God with a temple of the Holy Ghost, our human bodies. We are to nurture our body by feeding it, hydrating it, providing it rest and sleep, and we are to provide it with balms of Gilead as the ancient Hebrews practiced. So what is the balm of Gilead? And why do the ancient prophets use it as a symbol of healing and hope?
THE BALM OF GILEAD
The balm of Gilead was a much sought after perfume ointment in ancient times, and its antibacterial properties were used medicinally for skin irritations, infections, removing scars and
blemishes. It could heal wounds and sooth pain and relieve discomfort with aches. It oozed a powerfully aromatic with a healing resin high in salicylic acid, the active ingredient in aspirin. But one of the best benefits was its ability to protect the immune system. It was grown and harvested and made into a salve in the ancient region of Gilead in Israel. Merchants of Israel traded the balm of Gilead with neighboring kingdoms as a universal cure. Many medicines today have replaced the need to acquire the balm of Gilead, which is still produced to this day. But as it was accepted by the biblical prophets as a practice of self-healing, along with sanctioning the consultation of a physician for medical care and advice (remember, Luke was a physician by occupation and accompanied Paul on his journeys most likely to monitor the apostle’s health issues and challenges.), so today Christians should take advantage of the great achievements the medical world has made. Doctors today are not the quacks they used to be in the Wild West, guaranteeing impossible cures with a bottle of Brand X. But modern medical science has enabled our physicians to provide medical treatments that will kick start the healing mechanisms created by our loving God in the human body. If the Lord has given a medical team the discovery of a vaccine to boost our immune system so that it can get back to working as our awesome God created it to do, then pray like I do, “Lord, make this medicine or this vaccine a balm of Gilead. You are the Healer and may this balm protect me with Thy blessing.” There is no harm or transgression in saying a prayer like this. The Pfizer vaccine enabled me to have a mild case of infection. It protected my loved ones from me when I was sick. I agree with our General Superintendent of The United Pentecostal Church, Doctor David Bernard. You may see his personal comments on having no objection to having any in our fellowship take the COVID vaccines currently available worldwide on the next two pages. To our faithful readers: May the Lord protect us all from infection of this plague and heal all who succumb. In the name of Jesus we pray, AMEN!
LEO AGUILERA, Editor
l
Merry Christmas from Editors Leo & Virginia Aguilera SUMMER / FALL NEWSVINE 2021 • 3
VACCINES
The Personal Stance of UPCI General Superintendent David K. Bernard Reprinted with Permission
David K. Bernard
Many people have asked me to comment on the Covid-19 vaccines and various reports on the internet. The following is my personal understanding, not medical advice and not an official position of the UPCI.
Summary: Historically, many vaccines have been beneficial, and most Apostolic Pentecostals didn’t oppose traditional vaccines such as those for smallpox, polio, rabies, and measles. At the same time, we have supported the principle of personal choice, including conscientious or religious objections to certain medical treatments. We should carefully and prayerfully consider any proposed treatment, including specific vaccines, and make an informed, conscientious decision that is best for us individually. Moreover, we oppose any restrictions on religious freedom in the form of government mandates. After careful consideration, my wife and I chose to receive a Covid-19 vaccine. This decision was medical and not political, in exercise of Christian liberty (Romans 14). We believe in divine protection and divine healing. (See my book Spiritual Gifts.) I have experienced both in my life and have many testimonies in my ministry. We can trust God and follow good medical advice for diet, exercise, rest, safety, preventive care, and cures. The two aren't in conflict. For example, I pray for God's protection when I travel, and I also wear a seat belt. We should be good stewards of our bodies, for they were created by God and are temples of His Spirit. While we trust God, we are responsible to do what we can. Thus, we should heed sound medical advice. There is nothing wrong with obtaining assistance from doctors, medicine, and hospitals, but we should put faith in God and seek His guid4 SUMMER / FALL NEWSVINE 2021 •
ance. Paul commended his coworker Luke as “the beloved physician” (Colossians 4:14), and Luke probably treated Paul. As the writer of Luke and Acts, Luke also proclaimed faith, miracles, and divine healing. He didn’t see a conflict between his profession and his faith. Traditional vaccines activate the body’s immune system to fight disease. In the twentieth century, smallpox killed an estimated three hundred million people, including 30 percent of those who contracted it. Through a vaccine, medical science eliminated it from humanity in 1980. In the 1950s, vaccines stopped a polio epidemic that disabled and killed thousands of children in the US. The only effective cure for rabies is a vaccine. For those bitten by a rabid animal, a vaccine is 100 percent effective if given within ten days. Without a vaccine, once symptoms develop, the fatality rate is almost 100 percent. As I grew up in a developing country and as I travel worldwide, vaccines have protected me from many diseases. To enter some countries, I must carry the Yellow Card, or International Certificate of Vaccination, created by the World Health Organization in 1959. We should not minimize the danger of Covid-19. Even though it has a high recovery rate, it is highly contagious, and it has killed many people. Many UPCI ministers and members have died from Covid-19. We should take reasonable precautions to limit its spread and reduce pressure on hospitals and intensive care units. Some people are at high risk, and for some a vaccine may not be effective. However, when most people become immune through a vaccine or exposure, then the virus will have few places to replicate. Such “herd immunity” helps to protect vulnerable people and to minimize the development of dangerous variants. Concerns and objections. Receiving a vaccine is a personal choice. As Christians, we have liberty in nonmoral matters and should not judge or ridicule one another in these areas. (See Romans 14.) To make this decision, I recommend consulting your doctor. For research, I recommend professional, peer-reviewed medical journals and well-respected, well-known, longstanding medical institutions. I don’t recommend getting primary information
from the internet, especially conspiracy theorists, people who profit from these reports, and otherwise unknown individuals. Any opinion is available online, but most information can’t be independently verified. Many reports are false, and many videos are hoaxes or manipulated. There are several vaccines for Covid-19, using different methods. Therefore, when reading a report, ask: To which vaccine does this study apply? Now, let’s consider some concerns and objections. My purpose is not to tell you to take a vaccine, to support government mandates, or to oppose conscientious objections but to encourage you to obtain accurate information to guide your decisions. 1. Vaccines can have negative side effects and might not prevent disease for some. True. Thus, it is advisable to seek direct medical advice from a trusted personal physician, especially if a person has special health conditions or a history of allergic reactions. 2. Some vaccines for Covid-19 use new technology and may pose unknown risks. Yes, at the urging of the former US President, manufacturers used a new approach to produce vaccines in a record time of one year. We now have the experience of millions of people, so we have much data to evaluate. In the meantime, medical science will soon offer traditional vaccines for Covid-19. 3. Will the vaccines be used for genetic engineering of humanity? No, they don’t change the human genome (DNA), the brain, or the reproductive system. They do prompt cells to produce proteins to trigger the immune system, which in turn produces antibodies against the infection. In general, most vaccines work by using a weakened, inactive, or simulated portion of a virus to trigger the body’s immune system against the real virus. By definition, a virus is a packet of DNA or RNA, and thus every viral infection inserts foreign DNA or RNA in our bodies. 4. Will a tracking device be inserted into our bloodstream without our consent? There is no evidence of this. Doing so would be illegal. This rumor apparently arose from the accounting procedure for medical syringes. A more realistic concern is that we can be tracked by our cell phones.
5. Will the vaccines implement the mark of the beast or be a precursor to it? In my understanding, the next great event in prophecy is the Rapture. I am looking for the coming of Jesus Christ for His church. In any case, the mark of the beast will be a physical mark on the hand or forehead. Moreover, it will represent a willful, intentional decision to worship this evil ruler. (See Revelation 13.) If we are faced with such a decision, we must simply say no. Many developments could facilitate such a system, including computers, video, the internet, bar codes, chips, tattoos, scanners, and cell phones, but we shouldn’t live in fear that a new technology will surreptitiously give us the mark of the beast. We are concerned that some governmental entities could use a medical crisis to exert improper or excessive control and wrongfully limit freedom of worship. 6. Will the vaccine cause autism due to toxins? There is no scientific evidence for this. In 1998, a British doctor alleged that a triple vaccine for measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) could cause autism. Thus, he recommended taking the three vaccines separately. Subsequent studies could not duplicate his results but showed that the original study was fraudulent, with falsified data. Consequently, he lost his medical license. In any case, his study did not implicate other vaccines, and millions of doses have been administered safely. This study probably gained attention because the age when children receive vaccines and the age when autism manifests itself are about the same. 7. Some vaccines have been developed using human cell lines that descended from fetuses aborted in the 1960s and 1970s. As Christians, we oppose any research based on abortions. The original vaccines for smallpox, polio, and rabies were not developed in this way. Likewise, the annual influenza vaccines do not originate with fetal cell lines. The first two Covid-19 vaccines in the US were not manufactured from any human cell lines but used an entirely different technology.
SUMMER / FALL NEWSVINE 2021 • 5
6 SUMMER / FALL NEWSVINE 2021 •
Front Cover Report: REVIVE YTH CHANGE
A
pproximately four years ago, Brother Joshua Aguilera and his wife Jeannette were given the responsibility of leading the young people of Revival Center. At that time, it was a combined group, ranging from junior high school to Hyphen age young adults. Joshua & Jeannette Aguilera One of the first actions taken by the Aguileras was to split away from the young adults to focus on developing the junior and senior high students. This was difficult at first because it left them with a much smaller group and with students who had little to no experience in supporting the operations of the group. “We had to start literally from scratch,” said Josh. It was also difficult because they were also working with 12-13 year old junior high students who were totally new to the youth group. But this young couple was up to the challenge because God had already prepared them with experience both working with youth spiritually as well as academically.
EXPERIENCE
Both Josh and Jeannette have been supporting Revival Center’s youth group for several years. Joshua had been active in the youth praise team, led the signing team, and served on the youth leadership team starting when he was 15 years Joshua & Jeannette Aguilera old. This experience has aided are a gifted team. Here they them in knowing the dynamare ministering for a recent ics of running youth services Spanish service at RC. and the importance of involving the youth in leadership positions. They also bring a wealth of knowledge from working with young people at their respective jobs. Both Josh and Jeannette have been employed by local school districts for several years. He is in his seventh year teaching sixth grade, and Jeannette has been employed in the school system working with junior high kids for about five years. With their background in education, they are able not only to support students spiritually, but also academically. “We’re also helping parents navigate the academic world,” said Joshua. Jeannette added, “We want to make sure that students are doing re-
ally well academically and learning as much as possible so they can have a bright future.”
Our young people gather with youth pastor Josh Aguilera at Missions Conference 2021. Bright faces excited about the kingdom of God! Any future missionaries...?
DIRECTION
When the Aguileras met with their leadership team upon taking on the role of leading the youth, they discussed the way forward. It was agreed that it was vital that the youth group be student-led. They also changed the name of the youth group to Revive Yth.
GOAL
“Our main objective with these students,” said Joshua, “goes back to that principle of the cross. We are connecting them horizontally with each other and with the church body itself, and we’re ultimately reaching upward to God.”
LEADERSHIP TEAM
The Aguileras are supported by an outstanding leadership team consisting of: Kiah Williams, Alexis Diaz, Ariana Rojas, Anjolene Rodela, Brandon Fletcher, Ashton D’Aquino. They are especialKiah (center) sings with Revive ly grateful to have Kiah WilYth Worship Ensemble. liams on their team, as she has been a major help in involving students and connecting them to Revive Yth. Students are encouraged to participate in services either by playing an instrument, joining the youth praise team, running sound, or by setting up and tearing down after services. This has caused them to feel ownership and to become trained to support church services. The Aguileras are pleased that many have moved on to singing on the church worship team and supporting the technologies used for our services. SUMMER / FALL NEWSVINE 2021 • 7
Multi-talented Alexis Diaz
Another great asset is Alexis Diaz who creates their amazing social media pages. At the same time she’s also training up students in the youth group, teaching photography and video graphic skills.
SERVICES
Revive Yth has a variety of services during the month in which to engage our youth: from preaching services to a variety of activities, having guest preachers, and reserving one Friday night a Evangelist Colton Morgan month that they take off to works the altar after preaching a powerful service. be with their families. With all of the stresses of this pandemic, the Aguileras feel it is important for students to have a designated night for families to have time together. Joshua tries to make things very entertaining for the youth and to touch on topics with which they identify. “No matter what the generation, all youth want people to be real, so I try to be as real as possible with the students.” He also stressed that students need a place where they feel connected, and that is a focus in all they do. Of course, the Aguileras work hard to encourage students to prayerfully connect with God. “I think we have a lot of engagement in our services,” says Josh. “Our altar calls are powerful! God is really moving in there.”
FINAL THOUGHTS
“When our young people are motivated, they are unstoppable…because they’re not afraid to just talk to people,” says Joshua. “When they take on the identity for themselves that they are God-fearing Apostolic truth believing people, they will change the world!”
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REVIVE Yth, a place for junior and senior high students to connect to God, the church, and each other.
Youth Pastor Josh Aguilera prays for a young person during a youth service altar service.
Powerful prayer during Monday night youth prayer and Friday night altar calls.
Josh and Jeannette Aguilera at the Sheaves for Christ Walk-a-thon across the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco.
Youth Praise Team ministers during youth services. REVIVE youth use their musical talents to minister .
d to Youth attend dist rict events such works har ) r te n e (c as the ams E Yth. Western District Yo IV V E R in Kiah Willi uth Conference. serve to th u o y connect
Building connections through fun activities
Guest evangelist minister Colton Morgan ministered to our youth.
Young people share the word both in person and online.
Josh baptizes one of our young people in Jesus’ name!
SUMMER / FALL NEWSVINE 2021 • 9
COLLEGE GRADUATES PASTOR H. TODD JOHNSON We want to offer up a special congratulations to Pastor Johnson who recently earned his master’s degree in leadership and ministry from Evangel University in Springfield, Missouri. We are proud of his academic achievements and are blessed to have him as our pastor. Thank you, Pastor Johnson, for your example of always striving for excellence in everything you do.
“Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” - 2 Timothy 2:15 KJV
KIAH WILLIAMS
THOMAS BARKER
Masters in History Bachelor’s in History, with honors Southern New Hampshire University University of California, Berkeley Career Goal: History Professor Career: Stanislaus County Deputy Probation Officer Future Goal: Attend law school to become a district attorney. Graduated with honors
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KRISTY BARKER
Bachelor’s in Art History, minor in Sociology University of California, Davis Career: Stanislaus County Family Services Specialist.
Invited to the UC Davis Honors Society for attaining academic excellence and both founding and leading a club on campus.
SUSAN YBARRA
JENNIFER CAMERON
JON PINA
Bachelor’s in Nursing University of Texas, Arlington, TX Career: RN at Doctor’s Medical Center in Modesto
Associates in Social & Behavioral Sciences, AA-T in Psychology Modesto Junior College Transfer to CSU, Stanislaus, majoring in Psychology to pursue master’s in Marriage & Family Therapy. Goal: Open a LMFT private practice.
Fresno City College Associates in Criminal Justice Career Goal: Law Enforcement
HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATES
ALEXIS DIAZ
John C Kimball High School College Plans: MJC, UCSB Major: History Career Goal: History Teacher
JOCELYN POWELL
Big Valley Grace High College Plans: Indiana Bible College Major: Christian Education Career Goal: Christian Family Counselor
ZOE WARREN
Big Valley Christian High College Plans: Christian Life College and CSU, Stanislaus Major: Business
KENDRA WINTER
Johansen High School College Plans: CSU, Fresno Major: Interpreting Career Goal: ASL Interpreter
‘“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”’ - 2 Timothy 2:15 KJV
SUMMER / FALL NEWSVINE 2021 • 11
31ST ANNUAL STEWARDSHIP This Year’s Theme: “We Are Witnesses!”
Friday Night opened up with a packed house. This year’s theme is “We Are Witnesses!” We were blessed by guest worship leader James Wilson and our ensemble, greeted by two of our missionaries, and were moved by a message by conference speaker Mark Shutes entitled “Expanding the Kingdom of God.”
James Wilson Guest Worship Leader
Andre Carbo Home Missions New Orleans Metro Louisiana
Pastor Todd Johnson
Jared Driggers Foreign Missions Spain
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Pastor’s Wife Kim Johnson with missionary families
Mark Shutes Friday Night Speaker Director of Evangelism Former Soviet Union Countries
MISSIONS CONFERENCE
Conference services can be viewed on YouTube by searching: Revival Center Modesto
It was with great joy that we celebrated this year’s MisAt the conclusion of the service, Brother Shutes had the sions Conference after living with the COVID-19 pan- congregation pray for each other. It was a powerful time demic for almost two years. It was uplifting to see the of prayer and ministry. sanctuary seats fill up with RC members, as well as friends and family and visitors from other congregations in the area.
FRIDAY NIGHT The conference kicked off on Friday night with spirited worship led by guest worship leader, James Wilson and Josh Aguilera leads the ensemble in singing, our music ministry team. The Spirit swept through the “You’re Too Good to Not Believe.” congregation as the ensemble sang the words, “I’m not afraid!” We then heard from home missionary Andre Carbo. He and his wife Madeline are officially launching their church in Jefferson Parrish in the Greater New Orleans area of Louisiana in 2022. “We will not see strongholds,” said Brother Carbo, “but we will see opportunity for harvest. When everyone else sees death, we will see revival!” Next we heard from Brother Jared Driggers, missionaries to Spain. He and his wife Jeana arrived in Spain a little Pastor Johnson ministers during the Friday night altar call. over four years ago. They have been busy in the work of God there, using their talents in many different areas. A goal was set for the churches of Spain to double the number of churches in this country of 47 million. Each church was encouraged to start a daughter work. The Driggers supported this effort by establishing a daughter work in El Prat, a neighboring city of Barcelona and by the end of 2021, this goal was met even with a world-wide pandemic raging.“Nothing can limit what God wants to do in these last days,” he said. “The wind is blowing in Spain. We have not see Him face to face, but we have seen the Sister Keyes prays for Sister Madeline Carbo. evidence of Him moving across the world.” Our main speaker on Friday night was Mark Shutes who is the Director of Evangelism for the Former Countries of the Soviet Union. His message was titled, “Expanding the Kingdom of God.” He said that God is doing key and strategic things around the world. “There is an urgency in the Holy Ghost,” he said. He went on to say that God is raising up people to go out, taking the word of the Lord with signs and miracles taking place. He stressed that it is imperative for us to ready ourselves to partner together with God. We must have His strategy; we need Ministers pray for the congregation after Brother to know what God is doing so we can partner with Him. Shutes sermon, “Expanding the Kingdom of God.” SUMMER / FALL NEWSVINE 2021 • 13
31ST ANNUAL STEWARDSHIP This Year’s Theme: “We Are Witnesses!”
Matt Aguirre sings “Victory is ours and the enemy is defeated!”
Joshua Moreno Foreign Missionary Greece
Taylor Fairbanks Home Missionary Baton Rouge, Louisiana
Mark Brown Conference Speaker Superintendent, South Dakota 14 SUMMER / FALL NEWSVINE 2021 •
David Martinez Home Missionary Hattiesburg, Mississippi
Fervent prayer is made for our missionary families
MISSIONS CONFERENCE
SATURDAY NIGHT After a time of great worship led by our music ministry and guest worship leader James Wilson, we were introduced to several more of our missionary guests. First up was Joshua Moreno, missionary to Greece. He and his wife Christine pastor the Crossroads church in Athens and serves on the national board of the UPC of Greece, among other positions. His wife leads the ladies ministries and works with children of all ages. They have seen powerful things in Greece. He said that witnesses have an obligation to tell what they see, just like a witness in legal terms. “I believe for a greater outpouring of His spirit,” he exclaimed. Next we heard from Taylor Fairbanks, who pastors Vessel Church in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, with his wife Meghan. Right when they were starting their church, the country shut down due to the virus, but they persevered and recently celebrated their one-year anniversary. “God has never become greater, wiser, stronger,” said Brother Fairbanks, “but He has always been that great, strong, wise. He is the same yesterday, today, and forever.” We also heard from home missionary David Martinez. Ten years ago he and his wife started a Spanish-speaking church in southern Mississippi with eight people. They knocked on doors and evangelized and they have baptized countless people and many have received the Holy Ghost. On Easter Sunday of this past year they started Vida English. “We are a Spanish-speaking church that started an English-speaking church,” he said. “When you
are walking into Vida, you are walking into a life-changing church. All you need to do is speak out things as if they were.” Our main speaker on Saturday night was Mark Brown, South Dakota UPCI District Superintendent. His unusual sermon title was “You Smell.” He gave an example of how when people go to certain places, they pick up the smell of that place and carry it home with them. It is important to be careful where one goes, as spirits can latch onto people. He cautioned people not ever to take the feeling of no judgment in the moment that they are alright. In a moment of temptation, that spirit can surface and catch a person in their moment of vulnerability. He admonished the congregation to be careful of what they don’t see. That is why people need a pastor, a spiritual authority in their live, who is concerned for their soul. “God has placed a spiritual covering over a church,” said Brother Brown, and the pastor is the watchman on the wall who gives a warning.” He also stressed that one cannot trust their emotions. “God does not give you a spirit of fear,” he said. “God does not give you a spirit of depression.” He stressed that Christians need to be aware of what they see and hear because they will be a witness of something. “I am a witness!” he declared. “I want to be about my father’s business.”
Guest worship leader James Wilson lifts his hand in exuberant worship as he leads the Revival Center ensemble.
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31ST ANNUAL STEWARDSHIP This Year’s Theme: “We Are Witnesses!”
of
Pastor Johnson exhibits a picture he hangs in his office of Sister Bonnie Ketner who was a mighty prayer warrior. “It was people like her who prayed for us, that’s why we’re here,” said Pastor Johnson.
Vasyl Tomyev Foreign Missionary Ukraine
Dennis Nance Home Missionary Pryor, Oklahoma
A special cash offering was given to our visiting missionary children. While the congregation came up to put their offering in the collection basket, money also rained down from the ceiling. The children were given strict orders to spend this money on themselves. Look at those excited faces!
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Conference speaker Mark Brown concluded his sermon with members pouring out a cup of water to represent generations who have poured out their prayers to God. We must continue praying and giving for the kingdom of God.
James Wilson and the RC ensemble rejoice!
MISSIONS CONFERENCE SUNDAY MORNING The first missionary we heard from on Sunday morning was Vasyl Tomyey, he and his wife Tanya are Associate Missionaries to the Ukraine. Brother Tomyev has an inspiring story of growing up in the Ukraine which at the time was part of communist Soviet Union. He and his family were persecuted for their faith: his grandfather killed for preaching the gospel and his father nearly worked to death in the coal mines for boldly preaching about Jesus Christ. It was illegal to have church services and to be caught with a Bible. “If they find,” he said, “they can take your children, your house, and put you in prison for 10 years.” They were ready to die because Jesus had died for them. “Don’t worry,’ his parents told him, “if you die, you will go to heaven.” Brother Tomvey and his family are returning to the Ukraine after living in Sacramento for many years ministering to the Russian-speakers in the area. Our prayers go with him as he journeys back to his homeland and ministers in Jesus’ name. Next we heard from Dennis Nance who pastors The United Pentecostal Church of Pryor, Oklahoma, with his wife Tiffany. He spoke of how David was escaping from Saul, and he ran to the man of God. “Don’t go back to a crutch when times get hard,” he said, “when you have no idea how things will work out, run to the presence of God. He will make a way when they is no way!” When he was finished speaking, his wife Tiffany came up and related a vision she had. In her vision, she was in a huge area like an airport. People were hustling and bustling. There were two rows of hospital rows on either side of her. She saw a screen with a woman who kept repeating, “The signs of the times are happening right now.” Sister Tiffany in her vision said, “God is coming! It is happening right now!” She said to the people, “We’ve got to do something!” People were busy and were ignoring her. She saw the doctors and nurses and thought, “That’s our people. We are doing it efficiently and well, but we are asleep to the signs of the times.” She urged the congregation not to be wrapped up in the ideology of the world. We must wake up because Jesus is coming soon. Our final speaker was Mark Brown, the Superintendent of South Dakota. The text for his sermon “Prayers & Alms” was Psalms 68:30. He said of prayer, some people don’t have an answer to their prayer because they have the wrong motive, but some people don’t have it because they ask not. “In God’s kingdom, the prayerful are the powerful,” he said. God wants to hear about our needs, but He also wants to hear about your feelings. “Prayer is powerful,” he said. “It is so essential to
our life.” He asked rhetorically, “Who do you talk more to about your trials, tribulations, and stresses? You need to talk to Jesus first.” He spoke of our needing to be persistent in our prayer. “If prayer was answered instantaneously, it would require no faith,” he said. He said that God is trying to build faith and faithfulness. He used an illustration of church members taking a cup of water and pouring it out into a larger container. These cups represented our prayers that are poured out generation after generation before God. He reminded the congregation that our prayers and our giving come before God as a memorial. There is a record, a bank account, kept in heaven.”I want to be found a praying man, a giving man,” he said. “The job is not finished,” he said, “until the whole gospel goes to the whole world.” At the conclusion of the preaching, Pastor Johnson invited the congregation to come with their sacrificial offering and stewardship and mission pledges for the year. A time of celebration and worship wrapped up this year’s conference. We pray that this was a life-changing experience for all who attended...in Jesus’ name!
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EPIC Renovation! T his summer our church overwent a major renovation project which was long overdue. We still had the same carpet and pews we installed when we did our last remodel, close to 30 years ago! It was time. We recarpeted the sanctuary, replaced our ancient pews with cushioned chairs, and updated our foyer, among other things. Thanks to the amazing volunteer work of members and the contracted work of others, we were able to complete this project in just a few months. The progress and result were breathtaking. As we complete the last details of this phase, we are looking forward to the next in which we add Sunday School classrooms and administrative offices.
Pastor Todd Johnson, Renovation Executer Sister Kim Johnson, Creative Designer Donnie Wilson, General Contractor Jon Quinones, Project Director Demolition Team Tim Powell John Walls Daniel Walls Daniel Warren Jeremy Castro Tim Warren Chris Castro Tim Montes Jeremiah Williams
Uriel Caraveo Jim Campbell Donnie Wilson Ashish Narayan Florence Stephens Frances Robledo Renovation Team Uriel Caraveo Manuel Suarez
Ashish Narayan Jon Pina Joshua Williams Joshua Aguilera Vinnie Zapien Ashton D’Aquino Anthony D’Aquino Frances Robeldo Jim Campbell Ronnie Wilson
Drew Mindenhall Jon Harris Ron Kinchelo Angel Padilla Prep & Painters Norbert Feliciano Mike Shoffitt
Baseboards & Trim Uriel Caraveo Todd Lauderdale
Welder Ronnie Wilson
And a thank you to many others who gave their Chair Installer contribution and Contractor effort to assist Tracy, Sauder Worthese individuals ship Seating listed.
It all starts with the plans.
Donnie Wilson raises his fists in triumph after the old pews were removed and the floor was prepared for the new chairs.
Pastor Johnson works with a crew to rip out the old carpeting on the platform.
The foyer marble being removed and the floor sanded and polished.
Our old sound speakers being removed and replaced by NorCal Pro Audio.
Norbert Feliciano, seen here, painting the outside of the building, assisted by Mike Shoffitt.
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From This...
To This SUMMER / FALL NEWSVINE 2021 • 19
More of our EPIC Mike Shoffitt and Norbert Feliciano (not pictured) painting the sanctuary ceiling.
The sanctuary flooring where the chairs would be installed was sanded, epoxied, and painted.
A wood base had to be installed in the balcony to support the installation of the new chairs.
New carpeting was laid throughout the sanctuary and new baseboards painted.
With the carpeting laid, it was time for the chairs to be installed.
A view of the foyer looking back to Center Grounds, a great place to grab a cup of coffee before or after church.
The foyer after the floor was sanded and polished. Now for Sister Johnson’s creative touch...
Thank you to NorCal Pro Audio who installed our new speakers.
Thank you to Norbert Feliciano and Mike Shoffitt who painted both the interior and exterior of the church. Look at all that paint!
A huge thank you to everyone who donated of their time and finances to make this renovation a reality!
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Renovation! Assistant Editor Virginia Aguilera relaxes in the new beautiful seating in our remodeled foyer designed by Sister Johnson with woodwork by Oak Crafts by Jeremiah.
Remodeled church office with epoxied and painted floor. Looks sharp!
Painter Norbert Feliciano stands in front of the newly painted church.
Remodeled platform with new carpeting and decorative background.
First baptism in our new baptismal tank! Our renovated sanctuary at this year’s Stewardship-Missions Conference. To God be the glory for all He has done! SUMMER / FALL NEWSVINE 2021 • 21
Recent Events
Services are available on YouTube at Revival Center Modesto
Men of God Preach the Word!
Sam Emory
Victor Jackson Evangelist
Senior Pastor Apostolic Tabernacle
Paul Pamer
Taylor Fairbanks
Senior Pastor Apostolic Church
Danny and Esther Becerra Associate Missionaries Belize 22 SUMMER / FALL NEWSVINE 2021 •
Pastor Vessel Church
Drew Galloway Youth President Louisiana District
Nathan Harrod Missionary Spain
Pastor Johnson
Pastor Revival Center UPC Modesto
Colton Morgan Evangelist
Missionary Trip to Belize
This past summer Joshua and Jeannette Aguilera and Anjolene Rodela traveled to the Central American country of Belize. There they assisted Associate Missionaries Danny and Esther Becerra for approximately two weeks. During that time they taught, preached, prayed, cleaned, and even participated in Belize City’s first prayer walk. God bless the Becerra family as they endeavor to reach Belize with this gospel.
Pictured above, Jeannette Aguilera and Anjolene Rodela prepare vials of annointing oil for the upcoming prayer walk. Danny Becerra and Josh Aguilera assemble packets for the pray walk training session.
The Becerras Associate Missionaries to Belize SUMMER / FALL NEWSVINE 2021 • 23
More Recent Events
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Dwanda Scott Honored
fter 45 years serving as Director of Special Projects, Sister Dwanda Scott was honored by Pastor Todd Johnson upon her retirement. For decades this humble and hard-working woman along with her team raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for the church. Thank you, Sister Scott!
Father’s Day Service Pastor Johnson prays for our fathers as they gather in the altar with their children.
Bible Quizzing
Proud coaches Sujey and Natalie Diaz congratulate Naomi Salazar (front left) and Jazzlyn D’Aquino on qualifying for nationals! We are so proud of these young ladies!
Baby Dedication Service
Growth Track Graduation
Director Dana LeBlanc congratulates graduates! 24 SUMMER / FALL NEWSVINE 2021 •
Mother’s Day Brunch
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sensational brunch was held to honor our mothers, complete with elaborate and delicious charcuterie boards. We were also blessed by gifted speaker Melani Shock (above right). Honored were our pastor’s wife Sister Kim Johnson and our bishop’s wife Sister Sharon Keyes...we love and appreciate you both! Thank you to everyone who worked so hard to make all of us mothers feel so loved and appreciated.
Life Groups Kick-Off
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new semester of Life Groups kicked off with sign-up booths in the foyer. There were a variety of groups with interests from tennis to home economics to Bible study. Get connected...join a life group!
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KREW CHILDREN’s MINISTRY Trunk or Treat
Thank you to Sujey Diaz and all her crew who made this year’s Trunk or Treat a safe and successful event for the children of our church and an outreach to our community.
Missions Sunday
Thank you, Mary Aguirre, for organizing a Missions Sunday program for our children. It was a great opportunity for them to learn about other countries and the importance of spreading the gospel around the world.
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TESTIMONY OF FAITH
Gabriel Chavoya fist!” Gabriel was also told that if the mass is benign they will only have to remove the left thyroid; but if it is cancerous, he will need the entire thyroid removed and will therefore be on medication for the rest of his life to regulate his metabolism. After Gabriel went in for the biopsy, it took over a week to get the results. This was the hardest week emotionally, not knowing what the test will reveal. However, he received partial good news… He was finally informed that the mass came back benign, but because they cannot test the entire mass due to its size and the fact that it has now grown down into his chest and sits right above his lung, there is still the possibility that once they perform surgery, there could still be cancer present.
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o rest for the weary… after having overcome the COVID-19 virus in January of 2021, Gabriel Chavoya was still experiencing severe back pain and in May of 2021, made an appointment with Modesto Physical Medicine for traction treatment and decompression of his spine. Upon receiving an x-ray, the chiropractor discovered that his trachea was unusually tilted to one side. He said that a deviated trachea is highly uncommon for someone only 40 years old, and that they usually see this in someone over age 65. They suggested that he needed to follow up with his regular doctor. Gabriel then went to have further evaluation and images taken at Kaiser Hospital which actually uncovered an overgrown solid mass on his left thyroid of about 7.2cm in size. He was told by his doctor that they would need to do a biopsy of the mass to see if it is cancerous or benign. “My thyroid had a tumor the size of a man’s fist!” During this time, with a wife, four children, and while he and Julie were now in the midst of becoming foster parents to their toddler niece and nephew who were taken by CPS (Child Protective Services) in the month of March, Gabriel was going through an emotional rollercoaster of concerns. “I constantly wondered if I had cancer or not. I just went for relief of my back pain and it turns out my thyroid had a tumor the size of a man's
“The mass was making it nearly impossible to swallow his food and was restricting his airways.” Without hesitation, he ask that they schedule the surgery. At which point he was told that he would be placed on the wait list because due to COVID restrictions, they are back logged for surgeries. As one month and then two months went by, Gabriel was noticing that the mass was making it nearly impossible to swallow his food and was restricting his airways. He informed his doctor to see if they could expedite his surgery. Finally, Gabriel went in for a left thyroid lobectomy surgery on August 20, 2021. After he was out of the surgery room, Gabriel was able to testify: “The surgeon said it had no cancer present. The mass was completely benign, and I only lost my left thyroid!” In fact the mass shrank once it was detached (being that no blood was flowing through it) from 7.5cm and weighing 63 grams, to just 4.7cm. and weighing about 32 grams. He is almost fully recovered. Thank you Jesus! Later his blood results came back showing that his right thyroid hormone function is sufficient enough that he does not need to take thyroid supplements. Praise be to God! Jesus made it so his right thyroid acts like two!
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Until We Meet Again... Elder Rick Keyes We were truly blessed by having Elder Rick Keyes and his wife Pat join us at Revival Center after serving as pastor of Revival Tabernacle in Santa Maria, California, for 40 years. Although he held several positions through the years with the United Pentecostal Church including Western District Sectional Youth Director, Presbyter, and District Secretary, and as UPCI Regional Executive Presbyter, he was a humble man, always willing to sit down and share his vast knowledge with others. He was a mentor for many. Elder Keyes was a faithful Revival Center saint, always praying for others in the altar, and was a valuable member of BUFF, a RC life group for senior men. Elder Keyes, you are greatly missed by all, but we are thankful someday we will join you on the other side. Until then...
“What a blessing he has been to the kingdom of God locally and around the world. He was the kind of pastor that pastors wanted to have in their church. He never missed a service, he never missed an altar call. He was the kind of man of God that a young pastor could lean on and find strength from.” - Pastor Todd Johnson “Rick started serving the Lord when he was very young. He never wavered. He never lied. I’ve never witnessed him doing anything unChristian. He lived for God from the time he was just a child until last week when he breathed his last breath.” - Bishop Randy Keyes “The most powerful message Rick Keyes preached was his life.” - District Superintedent Gaylen Cantrell “This is one of the great honors of my wife to be asked to conclude this service. When you try to reduce a life like this to human vocabulary, it just can’t be done. I will never hope to have a friend in my life better than Brother Keyes. The words of King David came to my mind as he lamented the death of his friend. Know you not that a prince and a great man has fallen in the Western District? It was a product of his character, his willingness to give himself. The Bible calls people like this a peculiar {costly, expensive} treasure.” Keynote Speaker - Reverand Ron Mullins
Bhoop Narayan Originally from Fiji, Elder Bhoop Narayan and his family was converted during a missionary visit by Elder Uday Narayan many years ago. While still in Fiji, Elder Uday excitedly told then pastor Randy Keyes that he felt Bhoop was a key to bringing the gospel to the Indian population of Fiji. Convinced of the gospel, Brother Bhoop was baptized in Jesus’ name and filled with the Holy Ghost. Despite persecution for leaving the Hindu religion, he started a church in their home, one of the first United Pentecostal Church for Fijians in his island country, later acquiring a building for services. When he later immigrated to the United States, he and his family became members of Revival Center. “Brother Narayan was one of the most faithful men I have ever pastored,” said Pastor Johnson. 28 SUMMER / FALL NEWSVINE 2021 •
James Barraza God gained a gifted musician in heaven this August, when He called Brother James Barraza home. For 28 years, he faithfully ministered on the organ, offering up his talents unselfishly and with great humbleness. He was always on time in his place, never seeking recognition and attention. Pastor Keyes said, “This is a man who truly learned the lesson...the glory belongs to God.” His brother-in-law, Brother David Amador spoke wisely when he said “When God doesn’t make sense, you’ve got to keep trusting Him. God is working in ways you can’t imagine.” Brother Barraza, said Pastor Johnson, had the kind of faith that was “even if.” Even if God takes me, still I will trust Him. Pastor Johnson recalled how he prayed next to the organ, begging God not to take this faithful saint, but God had other plans. He asked, “What kind of God do you believe in?” He went on to say that he believes in a merciful God, that God’s ways are perfect. He said there are times and occasions when things just don’t make sense. That’s when our spirits cry out like the psalmist, “Lead me to the rock that is higher than I.” Brother James, we don’t understand everything that God does, but we trust Him, and we look forward to the day when we will hear you playing the organ again, glorifying God.
Johnny George Brother George was a quiet, faithful, and prayerful saint. Never one to be in the limelight, his example shone brightly to his family.
Chuck Winter
Karen Winter Farias
Chuck Winter served for many years as a church board member. He was a faithful, generous man, who loved his church and his family. His financial support of the church inspired others. He was joined in heaven by his daughter Karen shortly after he passed from this life. We pray for God’s comfort and peace for the Winter family.
Bill Cameron
“In your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.”
It is with very mixed feelings that we add one more saint to this page. Although we know that our brother is with the Lord, we will miss his friendly greetings as we entered -Psalm 16:11 the sanctuary. Aside from being an usher, he was also an active member of BUFF, our life group for senior men. We are also grateful for his being the general contractor for the first renovation of our building. Elder Bill Cameron worked 39 years for the City of Modesto, retiring in the position of Superintendent of Facilities for Parks and Recreation. He also stood out as he and his wife Pauline have been members of our church for 50 years! Ever faithful, ever kind...you will be missed, Brother Bill. SUMMER / FALL NEWSVINE 2021 • 29
More Farewells
Serene Walls
Mary Godinez with Sister Sharon Keyes
Serene Walls and Mary Godinez, Godinez were members of this editor’s home Bible study. Both attended for years and were noted for their sweet and kind hearts. Editor Leo Aguilera remembers Sister Godinez asking what heaven would be like and what happens to us as soon as we die. She would always ask for prayer for her family. Sister Walls upon returning from visiting her family in Singapore would always remember the Aguileras with a gift of a colorful magnet to add to their collection or a silk placemat set and coasters. Their presence will be missed, but we rejoice that both these ladies now know for themselves what heaven is like.
Death touched many families this season, and the Fletcher family was not passed by. They lost their dear mother and grandmother, Sister Ruth Fletcher. She was a godly woman who was baptized in Jesus’ name and Fletcher had the gift of the Holy Ghost for 77 years. She taught her children to be faithful, to love God, and that the kingdom of God is worthy of their time, effort, and financial support. For many years she assisted our fundraising director, Dwanda Scott, in whatever was needed. “There is no way to estimate,” said Bishop Keyes, “the number of bags of peanut brittle she made and sold.” She also blessed the finances of the church by selling pictures provided by The Newsvine ministry and baking goods to be sold. She was busy about the work of God. Thank you, Lord, for the example of this praying, godly woman.
Ruth Fletcher
“Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of his saints.” -Psalm 116:15
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Congratulations to Our Newlyweds!
Mr. & Mrs. Thomas Barker Congratulations to Thomas Barker and Kristy Zapien! Not only did they recently wed, but they also graduated this spring with their bachelor’s, Thomas from U.C. Berkeley and Kristy from U.C. Davis. Wedding photo by Averi Ramos Photography
Congratulations to Our Newlyweds!
Mr. & Mrs. Aaron Amador Wedding bells rang in June for Aaron Amador and his beautiful bride, Esther Hurtado. Aaron blesses the church with his amazing drumming, and Esther with her lovely voice. Wedding photo by Mehgan Fairbanks
Congratulations to Our Newlyweds!
Mr. & Mrs. Merl Fletcher Meryl Fletcher and his wife Diana Izarraraz tied the knot in August. This faithful couple will be attending church at The Altar in Mooresville, North Carolina. Be sure to come back and visit RC soon!
Wedding photo by Mehgan Fairbanks