In June 2009, a Hispanic work began in the community of Gainesville, Texas. There was a great need for the Spanish-speaking people of this area to hear the great truth of God’s Word in their native tongue. As a result, a Hispanic group was started with Pastor Elias Lopez, under the leadership of the Gainesville Seventh-day Adventist church.
From the very beginning God has truly blessed this program. Each Sabbath, new faces have joined the group. The Gonzales, Castillo and Gaona families eagerly helped in any way they could to establish and grow this new group. It has been such a blessing to see people seeking God and finding Him.
On September 12, 2009, the Hispanic group had their first baptism. One of the candidates, Raquel Mata Olivera, had a wonderful testimony to share.
Raquel had become very discouraged when she lost her husband eight years ago. In fact, she stopped attending church altogether. When Pastor Lopez and his wife visited with Raquel, they gave her a copy of “Steps to Christ.” When she opened the book and began reading, the first chapter that caught her attention was the scripture John 3:16. Raquel began to cry and said “Jesus loves me! He is giving me a call to come back to His church.”
The next Sabbath, she brought her new husband with her. They have not missed a single service. They will both thrilled to give their lives to Jesus and be baptized on September 12, along with four other souls. 
We now have more than 30 people rejoicing in this new family. We have a good attendance for Bible studies each Sabbath, and many gather together on Wednesdays as well. Pastor Lopez and his wife, Amelia are now assisting with the Spanish work in the Sherman-Denison area. A dedicated group of believers are working to keep the Adventist light shining stronger each day. We appreciate all the prayers of our dear brothers and sisters in Christ for the Lopez family and this great work that has just begun. May the truth of God’s Word be spread throughout every nation and tongue!
Laurie Bishop |