Empalme: Our Shared Vision
Iglesia Bautista de Empalme
Nine years ago First Baptist Church of Fountain Hills accepted the call to help a small church in Empalme, Mexico called Iglesia Bautista Ebenezer de Empalme. During this time there have been multiple lasting relationships built between brothers and sisters from both countries. We can never forget the time that the Youth Group from Fountain Hills, went down to Empalme to help with a week of Vacation Bible School (VBS).
Few in the group could speak Spanish so the communication was minimal at the start of the week, with our group separating themselves from those of Empalme. By the end of the week, our group did not want to come home, because of the closeness felt between those of Empalme and the youth of Fountain Hills. The mutual love for our Lord brought us closer together, and the lack of one common language was not a barrier at all.
Since that time there have been many more examples of similar experiences. We have enjoyed working together in Arizona and Empalme, as brothers and sisters for the glory of our Lord.
People of One Heart:
September, 2009 - Hurricane Jimena Flooding
We have experienced the difficult times together, such as when hurricane waters came through Empalme, submerging the church in 5 feet of water with major physical devastation to the area.
Through this difficult time, we saw the love of Christ demonstrated by all, as the church was restored better than it had been before.
Pastor Alfredo Marin, and his wife, Nydia are amazing people that are always on the go, evangelizing wherever they go. He has been president of the Baptist association for the state of Sonora for several years. Nydia began a group for young people who are interested in becoming pastors for the state of Sonora. She provides guidance, discipling, and help as they grow and mature in their service to the Lord. These responsibilities keep them constantly traveling but always with energy and enthusiasm. “All the praise goes to our Lord for what has happened as a result”, says Pastor Alfredo.
Some of the youth, such as Mayito, the former youth pastor, is presently the pastor for the Baptist church in Caborca, Mex. Another church has been planted in the nearby city of Guaymas from just 5-9 people last year to the quantity of 30 people now. Last year they were meeting in a house, but now have a small building used for their church.
Teresita, Nydia’s sister, has gotten married and moved to Hermosillo where she is instrumental in the operations of the church there. Job, the father of Nydia takes on the responsibility of pastor of the church when Alfredo is traveling in other areas preaching the Word of our Savior.
It reminds us of Paul in his journey as churches grew along his way. So many more examples can be told of this growing, living church with such an enthusiasm for sharing the good news of Jesus Christ. You can read about these other examples and testimonies, like the 2013 summer, in which the angels of Heaven must have shouted out in Praise to our Lord for the 53 souls that came to know the Lord.
Each year First Baptist Church of Fountain Hills has partnered with Empalme, both financially and corresponding mission trips. Our pastor, Tony Pierce, stated many times that the people who go on these mission trips to Empalme get so much more out of it than what we give. Their faith and dependence on the Lord is a source of blessing to all the brothers and sisters around them.
How Can We Help
We contacted Pastor Alfredo to discuss our desire to help Empalme church with their building needs. As it turns out, Pastor Alfredo and the church leaders have been praying about this very thing and this call was a confirmation that we are all of one heart. Pastor Alfredo was very excited about the possible help.
They currently have a little more than $3,000 saved towards their goal of $32,000 to purchase a home. This leaves $29,000 as Empalme’s goal that our church can help with by contributing towards that goal as the Lord directs us. First Baptist Church Fountain Hills will partner with other sister churches to assist them in their goal.
Pastor Alfredo is aware that this effort may take several months, depending on the goals and where the Lord leads. We agreed that we, FBCFH, would also pray alongside them that the Lord would give them clear direction and open up the perfect door for their needs.
In addition, they have an approved loan guarantee of $22,400 available to address the balance that is not raised through their fundraising.
We asked Pastor Alfredo to keep us informed of any changes or opportunities that arise as we move forward. He will work through Ted Reisig as the primary contact.
First Baptist Church of Fountain Hills has been truly blessed over the years. Much of this is due to the heart for missions that exists with the people of this church. The people of FBCFH have always understood that the money that God has blessed us with is only good this side of Heaven. This fund-raising effort would give us one more opportunity to bless the people of Empalme and receive an even greater blessing of our own as we glorify the name of our Lord Jesus together.
Furthermore, thanks be to our Lord, the Tamale school and sale organized by Ted and Rosa of First Baptist Church of Fountain Hills raised over $5,220. We have an additional $5,170 in designated donations for a current total of $10,390 designated for Empalme.
Our fundraising efforts will continue through the next few months until Empalme reaches their goal. Please be in prayer about how you can be a part of this effort by visiting our “Donations” page
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