I feel led by the Holy Spirit to write about this amazing church that I've only been a part of for one month. I'm a 74-year old disciple (sister) and a retired US citizen
who moved to Guadalajara to join other US citizens who have retired here. I wanted to attend church once I arrived and Foster Stanback and Jaime De Anda in Orange County, CA put me in touch with the leaders. I also knew I would be welcomed warmly but there's nothing to compare with the warmth of the Guadalajaran disciples. I've been given translators (as I don't speak Spanish), rides, and invited to a Singles birthday party at a charming little town south of Guadalajara. The brother in charge of putting the songs on the screen said he would email me all the songs so I can translate them on my computer. Oh, the singing -- what can I say! The whole church sings with such entusiasmo that you can't stay in your seat.
Frank and Angy Botello, leaders of the Iglesia de Cristo en Guadalajara
On October 22-24, 2010, the church held a three-day celebration in honor of the Guadalajara church planting 20-years ago. At that time they met at the Fiesta Americana Hotel which is right across the street from the building where they now meet. Jaime De Anda was the director of that mission team and one of the young team members was Jorge Barrientos who was the guest speaker at the three-day celebration. He and his wife, Paty, are presently serving in the Queretaro church. Among other things he challenged the church not to compromise on their beliefs.
On Saturday night after Jorge's lesson on being faithful to the end, the brothers moved out all the seats - a D.J. was brought in and the fiesta began. All the children, couples, and singles joined in the dancing - celebrating God's gift to them of family and friends and more importantly, faith.
These two photos are as follows: Guest Speaker, Jorge Barrientos, who was on the original mission team. And Disciples dancing at the fiesta!
On Sunday, everyone was back for the regular worship service. At the conclusion a huge cake was brought out with pieces passed around to everone. The church leader, Frank Botello, gave words of encouragement to all the disciples to continue to make the Guadalajara church a living presence in this great Mexican city.
The four people cutting the cake are (Left to Right) Sergio, (the husband of Paz who was on the original team; Jorge, Paty and then the woman in white is also named Paty and she is Jorge's wife. Last picture is of Jorge, Paty and their children.
Thank you.
Bobbye Trotter
Guadalajara Church of Christ
posted by Jerry Maday Worcester, MA