First Quarter 2025, Pictures

Teaching the ladies in Turrúcares

 

Kenneth Matarrita

Didier Rojas

Juan Carlos Hernández

Meeting in Communal Hall nearby

Renovation Progress

First Quarter 2025

 

First Quarter of 2025 Report

🌱 Mission Work in Turrúcares

For the first three months of this year, Roxana and I have been working with a small group that meets in the town of Turrúcares, located in the province of Alajuela, about an hour's drive from Heredia. This mission began in mid-January and continues to this day. The group consists of immigrants from Peru, Venezuela, Colombia, Honduras, and Costa Rica.

We meet every Thursday from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. I have been responsible for teaching the adults, while Roxana has been leading the children’s group. The members of this group arrived in Costa Rica over the past few months, some having been here for a couple of years. Many of them have found jobs and some have started their own small businesses.

The group has been very receptive to God’s Word. There is a genuine desire to learn and grow in faith. Our long-term goal is to help them become organized as a local church. We’re praying that, over time, God’s Word will continue to open their hearts and minds, allowing them to understand the work He is doing in their lives. Once they mature in their faith, we hope they will be able to function independently as a self-sustaining congregation.

I have been blessed to have the assistance of Victor Araya, a recent graduate of the Baxter Institute in Honduras, and his wife. The work has been especially interesting due to the diversity within the group, and we’ve encountered different levels of receptivity to the message of the Gospel.

Gustavo, a man from Peru, has taken a leadership role among the men in the group. He opened a car upholstery workshop nearly a year ago, which has provided employment for several of the group members. Nelcy, a Colombian woman, has emerged as the spiritual leader among the women. She is a strong, faithful believer and is considered the matriarch of the group.

Turrúcares is located in a rural area of Alajuela, along the main highway that leads to the Pacific coast. The area has a strong Catholic presence, but there is little evangelical activity. We are hopeful that, through our work, we can plant a new Christian community that will be self-sustaining, self-governing, and self-propagating. 🙏

🩺 Health Update

On a personal note, I wanted to share an update regarding my health. As many of you know, I had been preparing for the possibility of surgery due to a growing mass in my left kidney. Your prayers and support have meant so much to me throughout this process.

I’m happy to report some good news: my most recent ultrasound, taken on April 2nd, shows that the size of the mass has not increased. In fact, it has slightly decreased, from 28 mm in January to 27 mm now. While it’s a small change, it’s an encouraging sign, and we’re praying that it continues to move in the right direction.

I wanted to share this update with you because you’ve been with me through this journey. Your prayers have lifted me up, and I am truly grateful for each one of you. 💖

Thank you for continuing to keep me in your prayers as we move forward in both the mission and in my health. 🌟

🏠 The Church in Heredia

The church in Heredia continues to grow as a self-sustaining, self-organizing, and self-propagating congregation. It was founded in 1996 by Freddy Astorga, who passed away in 2005. I took over leadership after Freddy’s death, stepping into a role more like a missionary than a local preacher. My focus was to allow others in the church to rise up and use their gifts for God’s work.

One of the key leaders is Kenneth, who started as a young boy with a passion for teaching. Today, he is a theologian and a licensed psychologist, and he serves as one of the church’s main teachers. Didier Rojas, who joined the church in 2012, is another important leader. Didier has taken charge of the youth group and is involved in strengthening marriages and families within the church. He essentially functions as one of the church elders.

Juan Carlos Hernández, another leader, has played a crucial role in the renovation of the church building. The church has been using the same building since 2002, but due to growth, it needed significant updates. Juan Carlos has dedicated the last two months to supervising the renovation work. Despite working for an online company, he has committed several hours each day to this project. The church had raised about $40,000 for the renovation. Juan Carlos managed the entire process, hiring a construction company, obtaining the necessary permits, and contracting an architect to design the plans. The project is moving forward well, and the church is currently meeting in a nearby communal hall while the renovation takes place. There are several communal halls in the area that are used for community activities, and we have been utilizing one of these for our Sunday meetings.

The new building will include classrooms for children and youth, and the auditorium will have a seating capacity of 150 people. We are excited about this progress and the opportunities it will bring for the church to grow further. 🙌

💧 David Zúñiga: A New Member in Christ

David Zúñiga is a 19-year-old student at the University of Costa Rica in San Pedro, Montes de Oca. He is originally from Sarapiquí, a canton north of Heredia. David became a member of the Church of Christ three weeks ago when I had the privilege of baptizing him.

David’s journey to Christ began when he was about 15 years old. During the pandemic, some brothers from Ecuador began to evangelize him online. They contacted me to help guide him further. At that time, David was still quite young, and I needed permission from his mother to baptize him, which delayed things. However, David remained very interested in baptism.

About a month and a half ago, after completing his first year of university, David reached out to me again, expressing his desire to be baptized. He had been studying physics, and with his heart fully dedicated to the Lord, he traveled from San Pedro to Heredia, where I baptized him.

Since his baptism, David has been attending our meetings in Heredia and continues to study the Bible with me. As a student, he often has many questions, and I’ve been happy to provide biblical answers. It’s always a joy to see how satisfied and encouraged he is when he finds answers in Scripture. 📖

We thank and praise God for David, who is now a member of the young adults group at the Church of Christ in Heredia. His sincerity and devotion to the Lord are a true blessing to our congregation. 🙏

Thank you for your prayers and continued support! ❤️

A Day of Hope, Healing, and New Beginnings in Turrúcares

January 16, 2025 Meeting

After a deeply emotional visit with Eugenia in Poró de Grecia, Roxana and I headed to Turrúcares de Alajuela for a very different but equally important meeting. It was our third visit to a small group of immigrants, most of whom had come from four different countries, seeking a fresh start in Costa Rica. The group gathered in a small corner of Turrúcares, a humble place where lives are being transformed by God’s presence.

Turrúcares (pronounced too-ROO-kah-res) is a little town on the outskirts of Alajuela, nestled against the backdrop of an animal feed factory. This tight-knit group of fifteen people lives in modest apartments and one large house, tucked away in this peaceful corner. Among them, there’s a young 18-year-old woman from Honduras, a 35-year-old man from Peru, his wife from Colombia, three Venezuelan women, and the rest are from Colombia. They’ve found a common bond not just in their shared experience as immigrants but also in the hope of building something new—something greater than the life they left behind.

Gustavo, the 35-year-old from Peru, is a gifted upholsterer who runs a small workshop in the large house where most of the men in the group work. He has a steady stream of clients looking to have the interiors of their vehicles redone. One of the women in the group works at an ice cream shop in downtown Turrúcares, and another drives for Uber, making ends meet with her small sedan. These are hard-working people, but in their eyes, there’s a hunger for something deeper—a desire for purpose, for belonging, and for knowing Christ.

Among the group, there’s a woman named Nelcy, a fiery and faithful Christian from Colombia who had joined the church in Heredia about two years ago. She was the first in the group to hear the gospel, and she became an unwavering supporter of Christ's work in her family and her community. Nelcy had often told me stories about her family in Turrúcares, promising that one day Roxana and I would come visit and help establish a new congregation. That promise came true on January 16, 2025, when Roxana and I made our first formal visit and set a regular schedule for our meetings—every Thursday at 5:00 pm.

I told the group from the outset that I wasn’t coming in the name of any denomination or established church. I was simply a worker of Christ, sent to share His Word and show them the transformative power of the gospel. I explained that our purpose was not to establish a traditional Sunday worship service, but to invite them to experience the Kingdom of God, to see the reign of Christ in their lives. I emphasized that our goal was to help them grow and mature in their faith so they could eventually form their own local congregation, not one dependent on Roxana and me.

On January 30, 2025, we arrived for our third meeting, eager to continue our work but also uncertain of what the evening might hold. As we walked toward the house, we were immediately drawn into a situation that would shift the course of the evening. Jaime and Johana, two members of the group, were there with their young son, Juan Esteban. The little boy, barely 18 months old, had been playing with other children when he suddenly fell backwards, hitting the back of his head hard on the pavement. He was in pain, groggy, and crying. As I approached them, Juan Esteban, still in his mother’s arms, locked eyes with me. Without hesitation, he reached out his little arms, asking to be held. And so, I did.

For a few moments, he rested his head on my shoulder, quieting a bit, as if seeking comfort. I asked him gently if he would like me to pray for him, but he shook his head. I understood in that moment that what he needed wasn’t a prayer, but the comfort of someone there for him. I returned him to his mother, and we learned that the ambulance was on its way.

But the ambulance was taking longer than expected, and I couldn’t stand by without offering help. I turned to Jaime, offering to drive Juan Esteban to a local doctor for an immediate check-up, reassuring him not to worry about the cost. However, as we spoke, the ambulance finally arrived. While the paramedics prepared to take the child to the hospital in Alajuela, Roxana had already gathered the other children, engaging them in conversation while the adults anxiously waited for the outcome.

At this point, I knew our usual meeting could not go on as planned. The focus had to be on the emergency at hand. As the paramedics took Juan Esteban and his mother away, I invited the remaining adults to gather in a circle on the very spot where the boy had fallen. They brought out chairs, and we gathered, not for a formal meeting, but to pray for the child and trust that God would be with the doctors as they cared for him. As I prayed, I acknowledged the Lord’s presence, recognizing that we could come to Him because of the reconciliation we now have through Jesus Christ. I asked God to guide the doctors at the hospital and to bring healing to Juan Esteban.

When the prayer ended, the group asked me to share a Bible lesson, as we had done in previous meetings. I felt a deep sense of gratitude that they were eager to hear God’s Word, and I knew that the Lord had been preparing their hearts for this moment. I didn’t need to read from Scripture; I simply began to talk about "The Parable of the Sower." Only Nelcy and a few others had a sense of what the parable taught, but they all quickly grasped the message. We discussed the obstacles in the parable that prevent people from bearing fruit: the hardened heart, the shallow heart, and the divided heart. I explained that the good soil represents a pure heart that accepts the Word of God and allows it to transform their lives.

As I spoke, I realized that the hearts of the people before me were already fertile ground. They were ready to hear the truth and open their lives to the transformative power of the gospel. And I could see that, in that moment, the Kingdom of God was already beginning to take root in Turrúcares.

Soon, we received word that Juan Esteban was being cared for at the hospital in Alajuela. I said goodbye to the group, and Jaime, especially grateful, expressed his heartfelt thanks. Nelcy, a bit disappointed that her husband Felipe couldn’t join us, shared how touched she was by the group’s growing sense of faith.

The next afternoon, we learned that Juan Esteban had been kept overnight for observation, and by the morning of January 31, he was released, doing much better.

As the evening ended, Nelcy asked me for advice on how to create a flyer to invite neighbors to future meetings. I saw in her eyes the spark of a new church, one that could grow into something self-sustaining, self-governing, and self-propagating. This church wasn’t born out of tradition but out of a genuine desire to follow Christ and live in His Kingdom.

Please continue to pray for this group in Turrúcares. We are excited to see how God is moving in their lives, and we are grateful for your ongoing support.

In Christ,
Carlos and Roxana Ulate

A Day in the Mission Field: Remembering a Faithful Servant

Teodoro and Eugenia

Today, Roxana and I visited the home of Eugenia Alpízar, the widow of Teodoro Alpízar. Teodoro, the founder and longtime preacher for the Church of Christ in Poró de Grecia, Costa Rica, passed away on January 24, 2025, following complications from surgery to remove his gallbladder. He was a man of great character, known for his strong faith and his dedicated service in the ministry. I had the privilege of meeting Teodoro several times over the years, and he had often asked me to preach at evangelistic campaigns in the church building in Poró. His life was one of faithful service, and he will be greatly missed.

Teodoro was married to Eugenia, his second wife, after having lost his first wife, Sonia, about twenty-five years ago. Eugenia, also around sixty years old, is an entrepreneur, and when we arrived at their home today, we found her deeply devastated by the loss of her husband. We spent almost two hours with her in the living room of their home, listening to her recount the painful last two months of Teodoro’s life. Her grief poured out in tears as she shared the details of his suffering and the frustrations they experienced with the public healthcare system.

Through her tears, Eugenia spoke of her husband with immense love and respect, describing him as a great man, a servant of the Lord, and a devoted husband and father. She shared stories of how Teodoro had always put others before himself, especially the weakest members of the church in Poró. He was a man who sacrificed much for the welfare of others, and her stories painted a powerful picture of his selflessness and unwavering faith.

As we listened, Roxana and I felt deeply moved by her words. We knew there was little we could say to ease her pain in this moment, so we simply listened, offering our presence and support. After about an hour and a half, we assured Eugenia that we would visit again on Thursday, February 6, 2025, Lord willing, to continue offering our support during this time of mourning. We promised to walk alongside her in this journey of grief and healing.

Before we left, I thanked her for sharing such a personal and beautiful testimony about Teodoro. I expressed how deeply encouraged and edified I was to learn more about his life of faith and service. I also took a moment to thank God for her, for allowing us to hear these stories of a man who was truly shaped and used by God, a man who lived for His glory. It was a powerful reminder of the impact one life of faithful service can have.

Please continue to keep Eugenia in your prayers, as well as the church in Poró, as they grieve the loss of their beloved preacher and brother in Christ. We are grateful for your ongoing support as we continue to minister here in Costa Rica.

In Christ,
Carlos and Roxana Ulate

Fourth Quarter 2024

Progress and Plans for New Mission Works in Costa Rica

We have been dedicated to nurturing couples with the potential to start new congregations in different parts of the country.

New Works and Leaders

San Isidro Mission

Over the past few months, we have held several Bible study sessions and discussions focused on the initiation of new works. The most promising project is set to begin in February 2025, in the city of San Isidro, located in the province of Heredia, which will include members from the canton of Moravia in the province of San José.

This new work will be led by Didier Rojas and his wife Éricka Chaves. They have been with us in Heredia since 2012 and have grown significantly within the church where Roxana and I have concentrated our efforts. Through cultivating a deep friendship and mutual support in times of great need, we have experienced growth exactly as described in Ephesians 4:16, where it is written that from the head, which is Christ, the members joined together by ligaments, according to the proper working of each individual part, grow to build themselves up in love. Didier and Éricka have matured to the point of being elders in the church in Heredia, but due to the need in other areas, we are willing to let them go so that the Lord can use their gifts in those places.

Other Promising Couples

Will and Shirley

Another couple with potential for a new work is Will and Shirley. They are a special couple with whom I have had five Bible study sessions, without pressuring them to attend church every Sunday. For them, it is easier to have weekly sessions of up to two hours with Frank, my collaborator, and me, rather than interacting with an already established group of people with their own internal connections, values, and affinities—things this couple does not necessarily share. Therefore, the work with them may not result in their integration into the church in Heredia, but into a group of about twelve people in a place called Turrúcares, about an hour from Heredia. There is a group of people there with whom they do have affinity, and they are waiting for our visit to evangelize them and start a new congregation there as well. We ask for your prayers so that a congregation of the Kingdom of God may also be formed in Turrúcares.

Dennis and Yoselin

A third couple we have had sessions with are Dennis and Yoselin, who will soon be moving to a place four hours from Heredia, called Guatuso. We have the challenge of preparing them so that they can form a new congregation in that place.

Shifting Perspective on Evangelism

A related theme to our work with these couples is the shift in our understanding of what the local church means to us in relation to the concept of the "Kingdom of God". We have come to understand evangelism from a broader perspective. We now see that it is not so much about working to make people members of the local church in Heredia. Rather, it is about bringing the Kingdom of God into their lives. Therefore, instead of "indoctrinating," we accompany people so that, through knowing our testimony, they can see the power of God reigning in our lives, making it easier for them to become church members later on. However, the result is not necessarily that they integrate into the church in Heredia, but that they can start forming their own group.

Collaboration with International Biblical Studies

Another important aspect of our work is our collaboration with Rocky Castleberry, director of International Biblical Studies, an online training effort for over 55 people from different countries, but mainly from Cuba. The last session of 2024 focused on giving several of them the opportunity to present a short sermon of 3 to 5 minutes and receive my feedback in order to evaluate the benefits of the training we have provided. As a result of the effort made in the last session, I was able to evaluate eight of them, including Eliécer Perez from the Dominican Republic, Lisanka Martínez and Henry Cabeza from Venezuela, and Rolando, Mirna, Dariana, Leonardo, and Juver from Cuba. Each of them chose a topic and decided to present either a thematic sermon or an expository sermon, according to the training that the Lord, by His grace, allowed me to provide through the collaboration with International Biblical Studies.

Ericka and Didier

Dennis and Yoselin

Sharing a Meal and Fellowship in Heredia

Roxana hosts this Ladies Fellowship

Heredia Church Youth Group

Third Quarter 2024

Third Quarter Report of 2024

Introduction

The Heredia church continues its mission to grow both spiritually and physically. Our goals for this quarter include addressing the urgent need for remodeling our current facility and expanding our outreach efforts in the community.

Key Activities

Remodeling Project:

We have nearly ₡19,000,000 ($38,000) saved for much-needed renovations to the church facility. However, stricter city regulations, such as requirements for parking spaces and access for people with disabilities, have delayed our progress. Church leaders are actively working to obtain the necessary permissions, and we ask for your prayers in finding a solution. The current location requires these updates to better serve our members and future visitors.

Church Multiplication Initiative:

Another important development is our focus on expanding the congregation into new areas of town. Roxana and I have been seriously considering using members from the Heredia church who live in other parts of the city, such as San Pablo, to start a new congregation. We already have ten members willing to meet in their homes on Sunday mornings. This initiative will relieve space constraints in our downtown location and extend our reach into other communities.

Collaboration with EBI en Línea

I continue my collaboration with Rocky Castleberry as the "Dean of Academics" for EBI en Línea (Estudios Bíblicos Internacionales en Línea), where we assist church groups in Cuba, as well as individuals in Venezuela, the Dominican Republic, El Salvador, and Costa Rica. We are currently reaching close to 100 people, primarily church leaders, offering formal courses that deepen their understanding of God's Word and provide practical advice on church organization. My role includes ensuring that each course has a well-structured syllabus and is both academically and biblically sound.

Exploration of Worship Practices

We have spent considerable time studying the New Testament to explore new ways of worship that align more closely with Scripture. We believe the Bible does not prescribe a rigid structure for worship services. Instead, we see an emphasis on community, prayer, and breaking bread together. This understanding frees us to explore flexible, Spirit-led gatherings, moving away from the more traditional formats that have developed over time through cultural influences.

Evangelism and Fellowship

My work with the Heredia church remains strong, and I have taken on a new role within the congregation as we explore different ways of being the church. Our focus has shifted toward leading people to Jesus rather than just to 'our church.' We emphasize walking alongside people through their struggles, sharing Christ’s love in practical ways. On Monday nights, about twenty of us gather consistently for this alternative expression of church, where we share a meal and practice what we call 'love evangelism.'

As my friend Donald Prantl from Nebraska has insightfully stated: "When people come to church, they need to find what they cannot find in the world—God’s unconditional love and provision, His unreserved grace shared through our messages and communal life. The church should free us from guilt and shame, not be a license for sin, and it should never foster feelings of incompetence or pride. Within a healthy spiritual community of believers, we experience deeper affections that drive us to serve with joy."

This approach aligns perfectly with our philosophy of 'love evangelism,' which is centered around forming deep relationships, serving others, and helping people experience Christ’s love firsthand. By focusing on these aspects, we are discovering the true heart of evangelism: sharing God’s grace through meaningful connections and fellowship.

Future Plans

Looking ahead, our priorities for the last quarter of the year include securing the necessary permissions for the church renovations, continuing our efforts in establishing a new congregation in San Pablo, and deepening our approach to evangelism. We are excited about the direction in which God is leading us and remain committed to serving both our congregation and the broader community in meaningful ways.

Second Quarter 2024

Nurturing Bonds of Faith and Love

For the past six months, 20 dedicated members of our church have been meeting on Monday nights to share a joyful meal and engage in meaningful discussions. These gatherings aim to transform our church to resemble the early Christian church model, going beyond the traditional Sunday service. Through these interactions, we are fostering a deeper sense of Christian love and unity, strengthening our bonds as a community of Jesus' followers.

Some members have found these Monday night fellowships to be more impactful and meaningful than our Sunday morning gatherings. This deeper connection is helping us transition from a congregation that only gathers for Sunday events to one that truly embodies supportive and loving relationships. As a result, our church is steadily growing into a close-knit community dedicated to expanding our outreach in Heredia.

Special Visit from Baxter Faculty

From May 24 to May 27, we were blessed by the visit of Ronny and Yariel, esteemed faculty members from Baxter Institute. Ronny, the Dean of Admissions and a professor, and Yariel, a professor of music and choir director, greatly uplifted the spirits of our community. Their visit had a significant impact on the churches in Heredia, Calle Blancos, and Santa Cecilia, as well as on longtime workers Juan and Gloria García. They also connected with alumni Carlos Delgado.

In Heredia, Ronny and Yariel conducted two singing workshops: one on Friday evening and another on Saturday afternoon, which brought together members from both Heredia and Calle Blancos. On Sunday, they led Sunday School, Worship Singing, and delivered the Sermon to more than 100 members of the church. In the afternoon, they extended their ministry to Santa Cecilia, leading Worship Singing and sharing God's Word.

Their dedication continued on Monday, where they ministered to a group of twenty elderly people at a daytime care center. They were hosted by the church in Heredia and engaged with families with special needs, creating opportunities for Bible study and further ministry. Additionally, they interviewed potential students and gained valuable insights into the Lord's work in Costa Rica. A notable highlight of their visit was a meeting with the Director of Escuela Ecuménica de Ciencias y de la Religión at Universidad Nacional, exploring further training opportunities for Baxter graduates.

Ronny and Yariel's visit not only enriched our church community but also deepened our personal friendships. Their encouragement and support were particularly uplifting for me and my wife, Roxana. We are deeply thankful for the high spiritual and professional qualities they demonstrated during their time with us.

These experiences underscore the importance of our continued efforts to build a church community that embodies the love and unity of early Christians, while also expanding our outreach and ministry in Heredia. Thank you for your unwavering support, and I look forward to sharing more success stories in the upcoming quarters.

In His service,

Carlos and Roxana Ulate

Missionaries, Bammel church of Christ, Heredia, Costa Rica

First Quarter 2024

God's Love During Hard Times...

In mid-March, Roxana received a heart-wrenching call. Sandra, a fellow Christian, reached out to Roxana in tears about her missing brother, Jorge. Jorge, a young father to two little girls aged 7 and 5, and a devoted husband, vanished without a trace on March 15, 2024. His abandoned vehicle was discovered outside Heredia, showing no signs of damage or forced entry. Sandra, along with Jorge’s parents, family, and relatives, agonized over the loss of the man they all cherished. On March 18, just three days after his official declaration as missing, Sandra tearfully turned to Roxana and me for assistance. Sandra, a sister in the Lord, who sees us as her pastors wanted us to give her comfort in the Lord. That very day, Roxana, Ryan a friend of mine from Canada, and I went to Jorge’s home in the evening, carrying not only loaves of bread but also hearts brimming with compassion and love.

Sandra, along with Jorge’s parents and other relatives, warmly welcomed us at the door. Jorge’s family shared the harrowing details of his disappearance. We gathered together, discussing our faith in the Lord. I guided them through relevant passages and led us in prayer multiple times throughout the night. As the evening progressed, we sat down for supper, enjoying bread and coffee. Finally, we formed a circle, knelt down, and clasped hands in a final prayer. Together, we beseeched our Heavenly Father to reunite Jorge with his family.

This night left an indelible mark on Jorge’s family and us. Our connection with God deepened, and we poured abundant love into a family that had been fractured by uncertainty. Gratefully, on April 4, Jorge was discovered safe and reunited with his loved ones. Through our Lord and His Son, Jesus Christ, Jorge found himself enveloped in the warm embrace of his family, particularly his devoted wife and daughters who had missed him dearly!

A Message From The Family...

The message reads: 

"Thank You

We are relieved and excited to inform that Jorge Enrique Cuéllar Gómez has been found safe and sound after 15 days of intensive search. We want to express our deep gratitude to all those who contributed to this effort and supported our family during this difficult time.

Due to the investigative process, we cannot provide further details so as not to compromise the inquiry carried out by the OIJ (Costa Rican Police Investigators). We appreciate your understanding.

With sincerity and gratitude,

Cuéllar Family, Friends, Neighbors"

A New Church Arises out of Heredia..

This month, we witnessed the wonderful birth of a new church emerging out of our church in Heredia! They have been members at Heredia who live in a different barrio, as well as new members from their community. Given the substantial growth, which keeps them from fitting in our building, they decided to establish a new congregation to better meet their needs.

The Cambroneros: Camila, Jorge, Eugenia, Benjamín

This church was formed by thirty brothers and sisters of Christ within a garage of one of their homes. Jorge Cambronero,one of the five leaders at Heredia, and his wife Eugenia, have been very active in their community, sharing the gospel and God’s love with everyone. They now worship actively as a new church, with promising intentions to open a building like ours in the future to attract a larger congregation. Currently, they have 30 members who worship His name together! We, at Heredia, celebrate this new growing church. We all look forward to where this church will go and the members of Christ it will invite in the worship of our Lord. We pray that He will continue to bless this church and help it grow in the years ahead!

Fourht Quarter 2023

Focus on Cuba...

I've been conducting online Bible classes for 50 individuals across seven different churches in Cuba, thanks to the collaborative efforts of EBI Online (Estudios Bíblicos Internacionales Online). Working closely with the program's director, Rocky Castleberry, we guide students through a comprehensive course covering 15 fundamental Bible-related subjects. My responsibilities include designing the course structure and facilitating the asynchronous sessions. The impact of these classes has been tremendous, leading to numerous baptisms and the establishment of a new church in Cuba, as highlighted in Rocky's reports. Our partnership has not only been professionally successful but has also cultivated a wonderful personal friendship. Rocky, who is overseen by a church in Lampasas, Texas, resides in Costa Rica with his wife Alicia, actively participating in a church in San José, the capital.

I've been closely connected with the Dos Palmas church in the Santiago province, Cuba. A special bond has formed with the preacher, Rafael Cedeño, through our conversations on WhatsApp calls. These interactions have sparked a dream of Roxana and me visiting Santiago, particularly the church where Rafael ministers to 50 devoted brothers and sisters. While Rafael receives support from the local church, it's noteworthy that he sustains himself by selling the fish he catches from ponds around the area. The prospect of experiencing the vibrant community in Santiago firsthand is truly inspiring.

Connecting with students in Cuba has posed a unique challenge due to the ban on Zoom in the country. Approximately half of the students have overcome this obstacle by installing the application using VPNs and 4G smartphones. However, for those with 2G smartphones, the options are more limited. They content themselves by watching recorded teaching sessions, half of which I produce in my office. To ensure inclusivity, we've implemented alternative measures, including audioconference calls on the WhatsApp platform, utilizing various devices on our end to connect with those facing technological constraints.

Another member I have developed a special friendship with is Yamirelis Copello, a Spanish and Literacy teacher in Santiago. Yamirelis is single, has no children, and was converted 27 years ago. She makes a living being a special teacher of the program "Educa a Tu Hijo." This is like a homeschooling government program. She explains to me that what she does is visit parents whose children cannot make it to elementary school. She uses her contacts with parents all over Santiago to contact the parents for evangelism. Yamirelis is also a church teacher of children and young girls, and she also keeps records for us at EBI.

Meanwhile in Heredia...

We witnessed the baptisms of two individuals, Samuel and Dina. Rodrigo Ulate, my brother, played a significant role in inviting Samuel to church and guiding him through Bible study. Similarly, Jorge Cambronero, one of our esteemed leaders, extended the invitation to Dina and led her in her studies. My part was solely in administering the baptism.

Samuel's journey is a testament to the transformative power of faith. Despite a challenging past that led to incarceration due to past decisions, he has emerged as a redeemed and renewed individual. On the other hand, Dina, the mother to a special child named Estela, relocated from Nicaragua a few years ago. Having previously worked in a bar, she made the courageous decision to leave her job due to the challenging environments she encountered nightly. Currently, she is actively seeking alternative employment.

These baptismal stories reflect the ongoing positive impact of our church members, demonstrating the redemptive and transformative nature of our community.

Third Quarter 2023

Greetings from Costa Rica to our beloved brothers and sisters at the Bammel Church! It is with great joy and gratitude that I share with you the latest updates from your mission work here in Costa Rica, under your watchful guidance. Your unwavering support and prayers have allowed us to witness remarkable moments of faith, growth, and providential encounters that continue to shape our mission in profound ways.

In this report, we will take you on a journey through the vibrant community of the Heredia Church of Christ, where we have seen our congregation grow and flourish. We'll also delve into an inspiring experience Roxana and I had the privilege of being a part of at the West End Church of Christ in Knoxville, Tennessee. Furthermore, we'll explore a heartwarming reunion that highlights the enduring impact of mission work carried out decades ago. Lastly, we'll share a providential encounter involving Rita and Claudia, two remarkable sisters in Christ, and their connection to the Church of Christ in Key West, Florida.

Through these stories, we hope to convey the faith, perseverance, and transformative power of the gospel message as it spreads across borders and generations. Thank you for your continued support, and may these updates encourage and inspire your faith as much as they have ours.

Updates from the Heredia Church of Christ

I am delighted to share the positive updates from our mission work in Costa Rica, specifically, the Heredia Church of Christ. Currently, we have gathered a vibrant congregation of 140 to 150 faithful believers who come together eagerly for our Sunday morning worship service. The atmosphere is filled with excitement and devotion to the Lord Jesus. Our members have taken it upon themselves to share the message of Christ, engaging in meaningful conversations with others about His teachings. Bible studies are thriving, offering seekers the opportunity to make a profound decision to be born again. What's truly noteworthy is the tangible impact of the message we're sharing. It's leading to transformed lives that, in turn, inspire and motivate individuals to pass on this life-changing message to others. This remarkable movement of faith includes individuals of all ages, from children to teenagers, young adults, and the elderly, all actively involved in inviting others to join us and explore the enriching teachings of the Lord. Additionally, we host group Bible studies and meetings throughout the week, tailored to different age groups, and joyfully offer Sunday school for all ages as part of our Sunday morning activities.

Inspiring Encounters at the West End Church of Christ

During the third quarter of this year, I had the privilege of being invited by the West End Church of Christ in Knoxville, Tennessee, to address a group of approximately 200 Spanish-speaking church leaders hailing from Tennessee and neighboring states. On a significant weekend, September 16th, I had the honor of delivering three lessons to this gathering. These lessons covered vital aspects of a united church: "The What of a United Church," "The How of a United Church," and "The What for of a United Church."

The occasion was made even more special because on September 17th, I had the opportunity to teach Sunday School and deliver a sermon during a combined Worship Service attended by around 100 people. What made this event particularly heartwarming was the fact that the organizers were brothers I had worked with nearly three decades ago when I served as a missionary in Honduras. It was incredibly encouraging to witness the enduring impact of mission work undertaken several decades ago in that Central American country.

A Journey of Faith: Past and Present Connections

Allow me to provide some context for this heartwarming reunion. Between 1988 and 1993, during my tenure as the Director of Escuela Bíblica Honduras, supported by churches in the United States, I dedicated every weekend for an entire year to train local church leaders in a village called Las Camilas. Two of these dedicated individuals, Eustacio and Juan Hernández, emerged as self-sustaining leaders of their local church. Eustacio's children and their spouses eventually relocated to the United States, becoming influential leaders within the Spanish-speaking church in Knoxville. Additionally, Hector Cortés, a Baxter graduate and a Salvadoran missionary with whom I have had a close friendship, played a vital role in this community. Hector had been a missionary in Costa Rica, where he did his missionary apprenticeship program.

However, amidst the joy of this reunion, there was a somber note as well. Eustacio, who was visiting his children, shared the heartbreaking news of the recent loss of his eldest son to cancer a month earlier. This experience served as a poignant reminder of the challenges and trials that life can bring, even as we continue our shared journey in faith.

A Providential Encounter

We recently had a truly remarkable encounter in the Heredia area, where our fellow sister in Christ, Rita, works in a household. Rita is known for her unwavering commitment to the church, never missing a service. An unexpected twist in this tale occurred when her sister, Claudia, needed to stay in Costa Rica for an additional weekend before flying to the United States. Rita kindly asked if we could provide lodging for Claudia, and we agreed, unaware of what was about to unfold.

During a memorable moment that weekend, Rita suggested that I baptize Claudia. Initially, I had reservations, pondering the need for a thorough study and proper preparation. However, upon conversing with Claudia, I discovered that she was already well-versed in the Gospel. We decided to affirm what she had already chosen, and we baptized her that Sunday. Further conversations revealed that Claudia had been actively engaged in Bible studies in Nicaragua and was a committed member of a church there, underscoring her deep faith.

Claudia departed for the United States to work in a hotel in the Florida Keys, but the story doesn't end there. It turned out that the Spanish-speaking preacher at the Church of Christ in Key West, Florida, was Brother Pedro Pablo, who had been a member of our congregation in Heredia. We were sending Claudia from our Heredia congregation to a church in Florida where the preacher had been trained by us in Heredia. To ensure Claudia's smooth transition, I wrote a heartfelt letter to Brother Pedro Pablo, asking him to motivate the church to extend a warm welcome to Claudia. This story illustrates how the Lord works mysteriously and how we reap unexpected harvests, reminding us of Jesus' words to his disciples: "Look, I tell you, lift up your eyes, and see that the fields are white for harvest." This experience inspires us and strengthens our faith.

Dominic asked to be baptized

Bible Study with Luis and Yeila

Sunday School class in Heredia

Sunday School class in Heredia

Sunday School class in Heredia

Meeting Eustacio and Rosa thirty years later in Knoxville, Tennesee

Presenting to Spanish ministers in Knoxville, Tennessee

Lunch breaCk at Spanish Ministers activity

Combined Worship Service, Knoxville, Tennessee

Eustacio, children, their spouses, his grandchildren

Claudia being baptized in Heredia, Costa Rica

Claudia meeting with the church in Key West, Florida

Second Quarter 2023

Sister Nelcy's Journey of Perseverance and Faith

Overcoming Economic Hardship, Battling Oppression, and Finding Refuge in Costa Rica

I am thrilled to share the remarkable story of sister Nelcy, a resilient Colombian woman whose unwavering faith and courage led her family on a journey of survival and hope. From enduring economic turmoil in Venezuela to escaping the clutches of violence and oppression in Colombia, Nelcy's unwavering spirit serves as an inspiration to all.

After years of struggling amidst Venezuela's economic decline under President Maduro's regime, Nelcy made the difficult decision to return to her native Colombia with her Venezuelan husband and grandchildren. The hope was to establish a new life in rural Colombia, where they faced the grueling challenge of making ends meet. However, their circumstances took a devastating turn when Nelcy's sisters, along with their children born in Venezuela, joined them, exhibiting symptoms of malnutrition due to the dire conditions they faced.

Unfortunately, even in her own country, Nelcy and her relatives encountered hurdles when seeking medical attention. The Colombian medical system turned them away, citing missing documents as a reason for denial. Undeterred, Nelcy took a bold stand, gathering eighteen family members and staging a protest in front of a public hospital, demanding the healthcare they rightfully deserved as Colombian citizens. Moved by her bravery, the medical authorities relented, providing the necessary care for Nelcy and her family.

While one might hope this marked the end of their tribulations, a new chapter of hardship awaited Nelcy. The region in Colombia where they sought refuge once again fell under the influence of former guerrilla lords, emboldened by the socialist regime led by President Petro. These violent groups, motivated by monetary gain from drug lords rather than political ideologies, targeted children aged twelve and older for recruitment.

Nelcy makes it to her adult son in Costa Rica

Faced with the grim prospect of her loved ones falling victim to the guerrilla lords, Nelcy made the painful decision to leave Colombia. Guided by the preacher in her rural Colombian town, she felt called to relocate near the Heredia Church of Christ in Costa Rica. Compelled further by the fact that one of her adult children had already established himself as a taxi driver in Costa Rica, Nelcy embarked on a solo journey as a refugee, flying to Panama before entering Costa Rican territory.

Nelcy initially resided with her son in the town of Turrúcares, situated in the Central Valley, a three-hour bus ride from the Heredia Church of Christ. Despite the physical distance, she remained steadfast in her faith, never missing a Sunday service. While Nelcy awaited her family's arrival, her husband Felipe, eldest son Will, and five grandchildren embarked on a perilous journey on foot through the impenetrable Darién jungle, separating Colombia from Panama.

Nelcy's son Will going through the Darien jungle

Their path through the treacherous terrain was fraught with danger, as they witnessed the tragic loss of lives and encountered the remains of those who had succumbed to the harsh conditions. Braving the perilous mountains, rivers, and untamed wilderness, they persevered and eventually reached Panama. From there, they boarded a bus bound for Costa Rica, finally reuniting with Nelcy.

Nelcy emerged as the unwavering leader of her family, securing a rental house in Heredia and leading them to attend services at the Heredia Church of Christ. Their presence has been an immense blessing to the church, serving as a shining example of courage, resilience, and unwavering faithfulness to the Lord.

The Heredia Church of Christ stands in awe of Sister Nelcy and her family, embracing them wholeheartedly and celebrating their incredible journey of survival and hope. Their story serves as a powerful testament to the strength that arises from unwavering faith and the transformative power of God's guidance, inspiring all who hear it to face their own challenges with unwavering trust in the Lord.

Primer Trimestre 2023

New Growth and Blessings: Celebrating the Lord's Work in Heredia!

It is with great joy that I share an update on the Lord's work in Heredia, which has been thriving with new growth and blessings every day. Our congregation now consists of 130 faithful souls gathering every Sunday to worship the Lord. We are thrilled to report that this growth is the result of four new baptisms and at least five members from other congregations who have joined us.

The four new members who have been baptized - Wendy, Gabriel, Melissa, and Karla - each have their unique stories of how they came to know the Lord. Wendy, a single mother and successful manicurist, was taught the Gospel by Jorge and Eugenia Cambronero, our dedicated students at Estudios Bíblicos Internacionales. Her 14-year-old son, José, was baptized at the end of last year, and it brings us great joy to see both mother and son persevering in the Lord's paths.

Gabriel and Melissa, customer representatives for US firms in Costa Rica, have also put on Christ in baptism. They received Bible study from Didier and Ericka Chaves, who happen to be leaders with great influence within the Lord´s body in Heredia. Gabriel and Melissa continue to receive Bible study to ground them in the faith, and their new-found joy in the Lord is motivating them to reach out to their parents, who are also worshipping with us.

Karla, who has been hurting because of her separation from her husband and two teenage children, was baptized recently after several Bible studies and counseling sessions with our local leaders, Carlos and Mery Brenes. We pray that her circumstances will be repaired so that she can be reunited with her family, if that is God's will.

Francisco is an elderly gentleman who was baptized by Church of Christ pioneers in Costa Rica in the 1970s. For many years, he did not know that there was a church of the Lord in his own town of Heredia. He was thrilled to find us when he saw our church sign and has been easily welcomed as a member.

Javier and Oldimar are two other faithful members who have joined us from other congregations in Nicaragua and Costa Rica. They have both found a home with us and are actively involved in our church community.

We could share many more stories of how the Lord is working in Heredia, and we are grateful for your faithful support of Roxana and me as we continue to serve Him in Costa Rica. May the Lord continue to bless your sponsorship and all that you do for His Kingdom.

Didier baptizing Melissa and Gabriel

A Church Outing

 

First Quarter 2023

New Growth and Blessings: Celebrating the Lord's Work in Heredia!

It is with great joy that I share an update on the Lord's work in Heredia, which has been thriving with new growth and blessings every day. Our congregation now consists of 130 faithful souls gathering every Sunday to worship the Lord. We are thrilled to report that this growth is the result of four new baptisms and at least five members from other congregations who have joined us.

The four new members who have been baptized - Wendy, Gabriel, Melissa, and Karla - each have their unique stories of how they came to know the Lord. Wendy, a single mother and successful manicurist, was taught the Gospel by Jorge and Eugenia Cambronero, our dedicated students at Estudios Bíblicos Internacionales. Her 14-year-old son, José, was baptized at the end of last year, and it brings us great joy to see both mother and son persevering in the Lord's paths.

Gabriel and Melissa, customer representatives for US firms in Costa Rica, have also put on Christ in baptism. They received Bible study from Didier and Ericka Chaves, who happen to be leaders with great influence within the Lord´s body in Heredia. Gabriel and Melissa continue to receive Bible study to ground them in the faith, and their new-found joy in the Lord is motivating them to reach out to their parents, who are also worshipping with us.

Karla, who has been hurting because of her separation from her husband and two teenage children, was baptized recently after several Bible studies and counseling sessions with our local leaders, Carlos and Mery Brenes. We pray that her circumstances will be repaired so that she can be reunited with her family, if that is God's will.

Francisco is an elderly gentleman who was baptized by Church of Christ pioneers in Costa Rica in the 1970s. For many years, he did not know that there was a church of the Lord in his own town of Heredia. He was thrilled to see our church sign and has been easily welcomed as a member.

Javier and Oldimar are two other faithful members who have joined us from other congregations in Nicaragua and Costa Rica. They have both found a home with us and are actively involved in our church community.

We could share many more stories of how the Lord is working in Heredia, and we are grateful for your faithful support of Roxana and me as we continue to serve Him in Costa Rica. May the Lord continue to bless your sponsorship and all that you do for His Kingdom.

Didier baptizing Melissa and Gabriel

A Church Outing