GURROLA BAPTIST FOUNDATION (GBF) FUNDACIÓN BAUTISTA GURROLA (FBG) AMERICAN BAPTIST CHURCHES U.S.A. pin #190510

REV. DR. BEN F. GARC Í A – CHAIRMAN OF THE BOAR D REV. DR. MARIO -SETH MORALES - SEGU R A – CO-CHAIRMAN

PROUD SPONSOR AND PROMOTER OF THE AMERICAN BAPTIST THEOLOGICAL CENTER (ABTC), PASADENA, CA

Date: November/December 2019 Editor: Hno./Brother Joseph Gurrola

2019 GURROLA HONOREES

CONGRATULATIONS!

Rev. Carlos M. Gurrola Recognition Award Hno. Héctor M. González

Hna. Guadalupe G. Gurrola Recognition Award Hna. Argentina O. González

Sunday, “Fue un Dec. 1, buen 2019 momento

de mucha Presented bendición at the para la Iglesia congre- Bautista gación.”

Hispana -Pastor Glendale, Miguel Arizona Altamirano

L/R: Rev. Dr. Mario-Seth Morales-Segura, Hna. Argentina O. González, Hno. Héctor M. González and Rev. Dr. Miguel Altamirano

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A word from the Co-Chairman of the Board~

HNO. HÉCTOR M. GONZÁLEZ – Rev. Carlos M. Gurrola Recognition Award

On behalf of the Executive Board of the Gurrola Baptist Foundation in which, you played a key role in its gestation, we present to you the 2019 Gurrola Award for your outstanding service to our Lord Jesus Christ. Hno. González we recognize your exemplary leadership as president of the American Baptist Churches USA, President of the Hispanic Caucus - ABCUSA and even after your hard work in such roles, you continue to serve in many leadership positions over the years particularly promoting mission work both nationally and internationally. I will never forget your words of fun encouragement when my family and I served as missionaries in South America.

HNA. ARGENTINA GONZÁLEZ – Hna. Guadalupe Gurrola Recognition Award Rev. Dr. Mario-Seth

On behalf of the Executive Board of the Gurrola Baptist Foundation we Morales-Segura (714) 858-2814 present to you the 2019 Gurrola Award for your outstanding ministry [email protected] among the American Baptist Churches USA. Thank you for your active ministry in the Northern area of ABC churches for many years, for your commitment to the National Hispanic Caucus as well as your services with an open heart among the Women’s Convention of No. California.

Dear Hnos. Héctor and Argentina, thank you for all your deeds of love and commitment to God and the community and particularly to the Hispanic Community of our Baptist churches, they are like gold-nuts of inspiration to our faith in the American Baptist Family, both here and abroad.

Merry Christmas to all!

Pastor Mario-Seth Morales-Segura “It is a better life because of Jesus!”

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Thanksgiving Blessings from the Gurrola Baptist Foundation!

THE MINISTRY OF REV. ROBERTO & Please give with an HNA. ROSARIO PORRAS P.O. Box 431566 OPEN heart this San Ysidro, CA 92143 Email: [email protected] CHRISTMAS! (619) 751-6246

Deborah’s House Money may be directly deposited: Bank of America Account #0021 8457 7484 Hogar de Refugio Debora Name: ROBERTO PORRAS MAYNES

The Ministry of Rev. Roberto & Items needed: Toys, games, stickers, baby & children’s Hna. Rosario Porras clothing, adult clothing (sweaters/warm Vision-4-Eternity clothing) and love donations.

DEBORAH’S HOUSE ~ HOGAR DE REFUGIO DEBORA R ev. Deliris Carrión Items needed: 2380 Servando Ave., #124 Toys, games, stickers, San Diego, CA 92154 baby & children’s clothing, (787) 910-3485 women’s clothing and love donations. VISION -4-ETERNITY Post Office Box 10311 Glendale, AZ 85318 Office: (623) 266-9082

Cell: (602) 565-3816 Items needed: Eyeglasses, sunglasses Email: [email protected] and love donations. 3

How effective is the American Baptist HISPANIC National Caucus – ABCUSA?

American Baptist Caucuses (Info. from ABCUSA website www.ABC-USA.org) American Baptist Caucuses (Info. from ABCUSA website www.ABC-USA.org)

AA Caucus,Caucus, withinwithin ABCUSA, ABCUSA, is isany any group group of personsof persons joined joined with onewith another one in recognition of a common cause and shared characteristic, which meets another in recognition of a common cause and shared characteristic, criteria (See Rule 14.4.2 in Standing Rules), and is recognized by the whichBoard meetsof General criteria Ministries (See Ruleon recommendation 14.4.2 in Standing of the Rules), Credentials and andis recognized by the Board of General Ministries on recommendation of Caucus Committee. the Credentials and Caucus Committee.

For confidentiality reasons, names have been left out. The Gurrola Baptist Foundation (GBF) asked pastors, leaders, brothers and sisters the following question:

What issues, concerns or questions do you have for the American Baptist Hispanic National Caucus – ABCUSA?

—How strong is the A.B. Hispanic National Caucus on MEDIATION and ADVOCACY? Our ABCOFLASH region representative does not give us a report on the meetings, so can you tell us how we can access information on issues the Caucus is dealing with, and decisions it has made?

—What is the Hispanic Caucus’ stand on Immigration Reform?

—Out of control high educational costs for Hispanics who plan to go into the Ministry. What are you doing to help with this problem?

—Do you advocate for bilingual churches: Looking for present working models other churches can adapt. This is necessary for growth for the future Latino churches within ABCUSA.

—Our Hispanic American Baptist Churches would very much like to be informed about what our sister churches are doing to keep connected to our ministry across the country. It seems like one of the most practical ways to accomplish this is to have a HISPANIC AMERICAN BAPTIST NEWSLETTER? Is there an office, a ministry, perhaps a group of retired ministers who are able to do this? Are there any funds available for this (America For Christ)? Would the Hispanic Caucus be willing to support and advocate for this project?

—I really have never understood the purpose of the Hispanic Caucus. I know they meet several times a year at different locations, but I have never received any reports or updates from them. I also understand they receive approximately $12,000.00 a year from ABCUSA.

—Has the Hispanic Caucus influenced any policies? If so, which ones?

—What are the latest projects the Hispanic National Caucus is working on?

MEDIATION – ADVOCACY – ACTION www.ABCUSA.org 4

—How are the members/representatives chosen? Is there a uniform procedure, or does it vary from region to region? Where can I find the By-Laws?

—Where are the meetings of the Caucus published (date and time) so that pastors and all of us can attend?

—Can you mention any problems you have helped solved or any project you have carried out recently on behalf of the Hispanic American Baptist churches in the USA?

—In addition to planning for the next meeting, hotel, restaurants, car rental, etc., what concrete problems or preoccupations, for example, do you discuss when you meet?

On Thursday, October 10, 2019 the Gurrola Baptist Foundation (GBF) reached out to:

. Rev. F. Salvador Orellana – American Baptist Home Mission Societies (ABHMS) . Ms. Leda Carter – American Baptist Home Mission Societies (ABHMS)

. Rev. Abner Cotto-Bonilla (President of the A.B. Hispanic National Caucus – ABCUSA)

for the latest HISPANIC CAUCUS MINUTES and the NAMES of the REPRESENTATIVES serving, but our emails were ignored from all 3 individuals.

REV. F. SALVADOR ORELLANA AND REV. ABNER COTTO-BONILLA: Is there anything the Hispanic Caucus needs from us, the churches and pastors? How can we support the work, the projects you are working on? We are glad to pray for our Hispanic Caucus, but is there anything more we can do? Please release the latest official MINUTES of your meetings to us.

-Hno./Brother Joseph Gurrola – Editor of the GBF Newsletter (626) 500-7802

For more information regarding the A.B. Hispanic National Caucus - ABCUSA, please contact: REV. F. SALVADOR ORELLANA – American Baptist Home Mission Societies - ABHMS (610) 768-2421 Email: [email protected] I served as President of the Hispanic Caucus of the American Baptist Churches USA (ABCUSA). I also served as the the official representative of the General Secretary for approximately 22 years on the Hispanic Caucus. After reading the above information, I agree 100% with what is stated. I personally asked the former President of the Hispanic Caucus, Dr. Josúe Gómez for copies of the minutes, but I was never given the information from him or the secretary. Rev. Grimaldo Enríquez was the only representative (ABC of the West region) that would give me the dates and times of the meetings. Otherwise, I would not have known when and where the meetings would take place. I never saw any typed reports of the Hispanic Caucus – ABCUSA. It was my understanding that the President was to turn in a detailed report to the treasury office of ABCUSA, outlining where their assisgned budget money was spent. I was never given a copy of this expenditure report. I am not able to tell you where the annual funds were spent, except on travel, hotel, dinners, rental cars of the president & representatives. While I served on the Hispanic Caucus board, there was NO communication from the Hispanic Caucus – ABCUSA to our Hispanic American Baptist Churches. If there is no communciation, you have nothing. It is my belief that the Hispanic Caucus – ABCUSA needs to be more accountable to the churches and to our national office of ABCUSA. –HNO. HÉCTOR M. GONZÁLEZ (480) 231-0212 5 5

Mary Weaver Retires

INTERNATIONAL MINIST R I E S ( I M ) ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT FOR IBEROA M E R I C A AND THE CARIBBEAN

www.InternationalMinistries.org

International Ministries (IM), also known as the American Baptist Foreign Mission Society, works cross-culturally to invite people to become disciples of Jesus Christ and to proclaim, through both word and deed, God's reign of justice, peace and abundant life for all creation.

Email Received: Wednesday, 10-2-2019 9:25 a.m.

Dear Joseph,

You have been such a faithful communicator with me for so many years now. I wanted to let you know that I will be retiring on December 31, 2019.

I have been with International Ministries since February 1988 so it is almost 32 years.

It has been an amazing journey. I have loved working with the missionaries and our partners in Iberoamerica and the Caribbean.

It is hard to say good bye! HNA. MARY WEAVER Thank You! ¡Gracias! Sincerely, Endless phone calls and emails you have taken from us.

Endless deadlines you have met. Answering questions, Mary Weaver all day long. You’ve made sure nothing has gone wrong. Your skills, talents and organization, is beyond compare. Knowing exactly, what to find and where. Your smile and love for Jesus reaches far and near. Thank you ~ Gracias for all you have done for us! We will miss you dearly and keep you in our prayers.

–Gurrola Baptist Foundation Dear Mary, Based on Google.com

I will never forget your loving, humble and courageous ministry of support to me and my family during our journey of service as missionaries with International Ministries in Latin America. I’m so extremely proud of your exemplary leadership of transforming the challenges and complexities of ministry into blessings for the missionary community and for so many years. You have finally made it, and now it is time to enjoy a new adventure. My prayers are that this new adventure be full of happiness, beauty and creativity. Thank you so much for your ministry.

Sincerely, Mario S. Morales

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Mary Weaver, IM Staff Member, Reflects on Her Recent Trip to Cuba Posted on March 30, 2012

My name is Mary Weaver, and I am the administrative assistant to Rev. Dr. José Norat Rodríguez, Area Director for Iberoamerica and the Caribbean with International Ministries. I have been working with José for almost 20 years and prior to José, I worked with Rev. Victor Mercado for 4 years. I would like to share my recent experience of my trip to Cuba.

IM’s partner, the Convención Bautista de Cuba Oriental has 500 churches and 100 missions. They also have house churches and cell groups. The cell groups are formed from the house churches. The Convention focuses on planting new churches and leadership training. One of the pastors shared with us that 81 new churches were formed in 2009 and 2010. The goal is to establish 30 to 50 new churches a year. The churches are filled with people and there is such an atmosphere of enthusiasm and warmth.

This was my second trip to Cuba. The first time I traveled to Cuba was in 1997 with a group of Executive and Area Ministers from American Baptist Churches. This first trip was an evangelistic fact finding mission, and I served as a translator for Rev. Judy Allbee, who was an Area Minister for Indiana and Kentucky. This trip was different from the first since we were working on a construction project at Iglesia Bautista “El Cristo” where Rev. Néstor Rodríguez serves as the pastor. Just as with my first visit in 1997, I had the opportunity to visit different churches in and around Santiago de Cuba. On this trip, I experienced the same enthusiasm and warmth of the people in the different churches where we visited. The churches are growing and everywhere we went the churches were well attended. It was a blessing to meet Pastor Néstor and his family. Pastor Néstor is very committed to his family and the church. He is very humble man, but I sensed that he is a person who has accomplished so much. He loves his country and is very deeply committed to it, to the church, and to the community. He was very caring with our group and there was no detail left untouched. I felt very blessed to be under his leadership during our stay. Also, I appreciated the opportunity to meet with the Board of Directors of the Convention together with Kim Kushner Dominguez during our stay. These meetings were very informative and enlightening.

I felt a real sense of love and warmth from the people that we met in the churches. There were differences in the churches where we visited. Some of them were larger more historic churches and some were more humble such as the house and cell churches we visited. I was very impressed with the cell church that we visited. Despite their difficult circumstances, the people gave us a warm reception. I was able to translate for two of my colleagues when they gave their testimonies and I really enjoyed being able to do this. Also, the leader of the cell church, Augustina, who was an older woman, impressed me and it was surprising that she was very open minded for a person of her age.

This is the first time that I have gone on a mission work trip with a group where we all stayed together during our visit. It was really nice to get to know the different members of the group. I felt that we all had a very good rapport.

I would love to return to Cuba again. I have always been interested in the country, its history, the people, and I find it to be very fascinating. I have made many friends over the past 15 to 20 years among pastors, who are members of the Eastern Cuba Baptist Convention. Some of those pastors are retired now, but are still involved in ministry. I feel honored and blessed to have been able to maintain these friendships. I have really enjoyed helping people in Cuba when needs have arisen where I am able to help. I believe that I will always have an interest in Cuba and in her people.

Although many years passed between my visits to Cuba, many of my experiences on both trips were similar. Also, I would like to thank José Norat Rodríguez for having made these trips possible.  7

Andraé Crouch July 1, 1942 - January 8, 2015 (age 72)

A Gospel Legend~

Andraé Edward Crouch, an award- winning gospel musician, recording artist, songwriter, arranger, producer and pastor. Born July 1, 1942 in Los Ángeles, California, he was a key figure in the Christian Music movement of the 1960s and 1970s.

He was often told the story about how his piano-playing was literally God-given when he was a child.

His religious songs have been performed by Elvis Presley, Paul Simon, and church choirs and other musical groups around the world. He has won eight GRAMMY® awards, six GMA Dove awards and received an Oscar nomination. Crouch was inducted into the Gospel Music Association’s Gospel Music Hall of Fame in 1998.

His recordings range from reverent hymns, to the traditional gospel music pioneered by Thomas A. Dorsey, to contemporary light rock and pop-oriented songs backed by jazz musicians, to African/world-music influences.

Called the “the father of the modern gospel,” because he more than anyone expanded gospel music to include elements of R&B and modern popular styles during the 70s and 80s, Crouch had his early musical formation in his parents’ church in southern California. He was often told the story about how his piano-playing was literally God-given when he was a child. His first musical group was the COGICS (Church of God in Christ Singers), which he formed when he was in high school and which featured vocalist Billy Preston. Preston later played organ for the Beatles, Eric Clapton, and many other mainstream and gospel artists before launching a successful solo career. The COGICS were the first to record “The Blood Will Never Lose It’s Power.”

Crouch founded the Disciples in 1965. At the urging of Christian composer Ralph Carmichael, he began to record his compositions in 1969. During the 1965-1985 period, Crouch

8 and the Disciples appeared on The Tonight Show starring Johnny Carson, performed at the Hollywood Bowl and Carnegie Hall, and toured 68 countries. Their most popular songs from this period include “The Blood Will Never Lose Its Power,” “Through It All,” “Bless His Holy Name,” and “My Tribute.” Their contemporary gospel sound reached beyond the traditional African American base and touched a racially and musically diverse audience. Several musical groups and solo performers recorded Crouch’s more popular works, further expanding his musical influence.

He later worked as a producer or arranger with , (“Like A Prayer”), , Diana Ross, and Rick Astley (“Cry For Help”). His film credits include Once Upon A Forest, The Color Purple, , and Free Willy. Who can forget the rousing rendition of “Maybe God’s Trying to Tell You Something,” from The Color Purple (featuring Tata Vega on lead), or the theme from the NBC sitcom Amen. Crouch also appeared on television as the voice of Dr. Seuss’s Yertle the Turtle.

Crouch who is credited with revolutionizing the sound of contemporary gospel music, was one of the first black gospel artists to crossover to mainstream contemporary Christian music, and his songs have become staples and popular hymns in churches all around the world. In 1996, his songs were the impetus for the GRAMMY award-winning CD, Tribute: The Songs of Andraé Crouch, which featured a range of artists, including the Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir, Take 6 and Michael W. Smith, performing some of his classic songs.

Andraé Crouch has won numerous awards and honors over the years. In addition to his GRAMMY® Awards and GMA Dove Awards, he has received ASCAP, Billboard and NAACP Image Awards. In 2004, he became the only living contemporary gospel artist—and just the third in history—to have his star enshrined on the prestigious Hollywood Walk of Fame. In 2005, Crouch was the recipient of the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences’ Inaugural Salute to Gospel Music Lifetime Achievement Award.

Andrae Crouch served as Senior Pastor at the New Christ Memorial Church of God in Christ in San Fernando, California, the church founded by his parents.

He had signed a record deal with Riverphlo Entertainment and released his new album titled The Journey in the Spring of 2011. The first single from the album, “The Promise,” is in stores now (Buy on iTunes). The signing re-teams him with songwriter, producer and CEO Mano Hanes (who produced Mighty Wind), Hanes launched the new label Riverphlo Entertainment, which is distributed by Universal Music Christian Group. 

Taken from Google.com 9

Hispanic American Baptist Churches Southern California & Northern California

Iglesia Bautista Hispana de Los Ángeles Rev. Dr. Enrique Torres [email protected] www.abcoflash.org www.convencionbautista.com

Affiliated and in covenant with the American Baptist Churches of Los Ángeles, the Southwest & Hawaii (ABCOFLASH) and the Convención de Iglesias Bautista Hispanas (CIBH).

1700 Toberman Street Los Ángeles, Calfornia 90015 (213) 749-4976

Horario de Reuniones

Domingo: Escuela Dominical, 9:30 a.m. Culto de Adoración, 11:00 a.m. Culto de la Familia, 5:00 p.m.

Miércoles: Oración y estudio bíblico, 7:30 p.m.

Viernes: Culto de Sociedades, 7:30 p.m.  FIND A CHURCH  American Baptist Churches U.S.A.

www.abc-usa.org/find-a-church (800) ABC3-USA or (610) 768-2000

Portola Baptist Church Rev. Alejandro Gaete [email protected]

www.portolabaptistchurch.org www.convencion-ncal.org

Affiliated and in covenant with the Iglesias Bautistas Hispano-Americanas del Norte de California, ABC and the American Baptist Churches of the Central Pacific Coast (ABCCPC).

225 Pioche Street San Francisco, California 94134 Office (415) 584-3230 Cell (415) 235-5873 E-mail de la iglesia: [email protected]

Adoración Domingo: 11 a.m., Bilingue; 6 p.m. en Español

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Church History 

Portola Baptist Church’s Historical Account www.portolabaptistchurch.org

It was during the darkest days of the Second World War that God put in mind and heart of two young students the idea of opening a Baptist church in the Portola district of San Francisco. In the spring of 1944, John Nicholson and Joseph Meeko Jr., students of the Berkley Baptist Seminary got together to begin an active ministry in said community. The young men circulated hundreds of cards announcing the opening of evangelical services in the Portola Community Center, 2470 San Bruno Ave., San Francisco. The first Sunday in August 1944, only two or three people attended, but because of personal visits and prayers, Sunday School, Bible Studies and Prayer Services were started in private homes. In 1945, the church was organized counting 20 as its members. This group, together with its pastor, “Rev. Herber G. Johnson (who was called to pastor the church), felt the need to have their own building, and in 1946, under the wise ministry of its pastor and the support of the Baptist churches of the Bay Area, they decided to buy the Jewish Synagogue located on Felton and Girard streets in San Francisco. By this time, there were a total of 92 members in the church.

Later, this property was sold and under the direction of its new pastor, Rev. Ferguson, the property, where is now “Portola Baptist Church” was purchased. This building was inaugurated in 1961. From 1962 to 1971, Rev. James Culpepper and Rev. Jerry Warren pastored the church. In 1968, a ministry for the Hispanic community was opened. Its founder was Rev. Juan Garcia. This group was initiated with the assistance of 15 people and with time it grew by the mercy of God. Since there was no one to take care of the English- speaking congregation, in 1971, an agreement was reached to unite the two groups to form a bilingual church. Rev. Juan Garcia was its pastor from 1974 to 1979. In 1979, Rev. David Weeler and Rev. Betty Davis were called to pastor the church. Rev. Angel Martinez pastored the church from 1983 to 1985, Rev. Miguel Solla from 1986 to 1989, Rev. Alejandro Juarez and Rev. Lenni Juarez from 1990 to 1993, Rev. Elias Castillo from 1994 to 2014, and Rev. Alejandro Gaete from August 2016 to present. Since 1994 to present, Portola Baptist Church has been greatly blessed through the fulfillment of God’s ministries. Over time hundreds of people have found Jesus Christ through its evangelistic programs. Many needs have been met for people of limited resources, illegal aliens, and above all the spiritually lost around the world through its missionary support; as part of its Missions Ministry, Portola Baptist Church continues to support several domestic and foreign missionaries. Much more can be said of how the Lord has used the people of Portola Baptist Church over the years. We praise God and give thanks for so many brothers and sisters who have consecrated their lives to fulfill the mission for which the church was established.

With the prophet Samuel we all say, “thus far has the Lord helped us” and to Him be the glory!

Blessings in the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ!

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A letter from Rev. Sharon Koh about recent changes at International Ministries (IM)

Dear Friend of IM,

Hello and greetings in the name of our Risen Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. I hope this note finds you well as the Fall brings a change of pace and scenery.

I am writing to offer insight into the state of IM and a difficult decision I faced recently. As I share these changes with you, it is helpful for me to mention that our budget had a $1.2M deficit last year, and the draft for next year shows a deficit of less than $400k. Our Board and I believe that it is our responsibility to you, our friends and donors, to conduct our operations in a fiscally responsible and sustainable manner.

So, with an eye on the long-term sustainability of IM’s ministry and mission, I recently announced to IM Board, staff and global servants that we found it necessary to eliminate five home office staff positions. We have made other financial adjustments but this one is very likely the most difficult as it impacts our colleagues and very likely, some of your friends.

It is never an easy choice to make when we recognize these colleagues have served with diligence and commitment alongside of us. We thank God for their years of service, and we want you to know how blessed we are to continue to consider them IM family.

However, in order to move past the fiscal challenges and prepare next year’s budget within agreed upon limits, IM’s financial plans need to enable IM global servants to continue to serve in God’s mission well into the third century.

Our global servants are also impacted and will also be raising additional funds as part of their personalized support goal to offset a portion of the Missionary Support Services that we provide.

Finally, we have all tightened expenses and adjusted all specific project funds under IM's management to arrive at funding goals that are comparable to professional standards with other organizations doing similar work.

We remain committed to the vision and mission of responding to God’s call into cross-cultural mission by sending global servants in partnership with international partners. This has been our mission for 205 years, and it will continue to be so. For example, this past summer, we were delighted to host one of our largest and most diverse Hear the 12

Call conferences in Sandy Cove, MD. I am very excited about the commitment of those servants God is calling to live in cross-cultural contexts.

Along with our churches, IM remains committed to God’s mission with focus on ministries relevant for today. As we have since our beginnings, we continue to respond in the areas of discipleship, evangelism and theological education and still at the core of our ministries are issues of injustice and oppression, the need for education, economic development, and health and wellness. Thank you for your ongoing partnership in all these focused impact areas.

You may be wondering how you can continue to help.

First, please consider strengthening your financial and prayer support of our global servants. You may be able to increase your monthly pledge or introduce someone in your network who would be glad to partner with their ministry.

Second, encourage your friends and your church to give generously to the World Mission Offering (WMO). The WMO and general fund covers the entire work of IM, often filling in shortfalls and gaps in other types of giving.

As we step into IM’s third century of mission together, may God grant us joy and steadfastness as we embrace our part in God’s great mission.

In Christ,

On earth as it is in heaven. Sharon Koh Matthew 6:10 Executive Director /CEO

International Ministries, also known as the American Baptist Foreign Mission Society, works cross-culturally to invite people to become disciples of Jesus Christ and to proclaim, through both word and deed, God's reign of justice, peace and abundant life for all creation.

International Ministries (IM)

1003 West 9th Avenue, Suite #A

King of Prussia, PA 19406 (610) 768-2168 www.internationalministries.org

Information taken from the IM email communication 9-19-2019 13

THE GBF RECOMMENDS: WALK WITH THE PEOPLE LATINO MINISTRY IN THE UNITED STATES

“The complexity of Latino identity in this country is born in the ambivalence, treatment, and historical events that began in the nineteenth century and that developed particularly in the states of the Southwest…My perspective is that anyone who wants to minister in the Latino community needs to know their history to understand their current reality.” —Rev. Dr. Eduardo Font

“It is a ministerial responsibility to know the history of the Latino church so that we can learn from our previous mistakes and also learn of many achievements we have had as Latinos in this country.” —Pastors Saúl & Rosamaría Maldonado

JUDSON PRESS (800) 458-3766

THE GURROLA BAPTIST FOUNDATION ALSO RECOMMENDS: GOD MADE ME UNIQUE - Helping Children See Value in Every Person

By Joni and Friends

Price: $15.99 Product #: BK175 www.joniandfriends.org

God’s kingdom is full of people uniquely made in His image, and God Made Me Unique helps children learn how every person is valuable, eliminating fear and misconceptions about those who have special needs. Through this book, Joni and Friends helps children learn to treat all people with kindness and respect.

Dr. Maya Angelou Poet, Humanitarian and Fellow Baptist

"This is what the Baptist church has tried to be -- hope. At our best, this is what we've tried to be... It is daring to love somebody who may not look like you. Daring to care. Having enough nerve, enough courage, to step out on the word of God!"

Taken from THE NEW BAPTIST COVENANT email communication 5-28-2015 14

The Reverend Doctor John H. Townsend passed away —onDr. July Maya 11, Angelou 2019 in Redlands, California at the age of 87 after a long struggle with Parkinson’s disease.

Information taken from the ABCOFLASH email communication; Friday, July 19, 2019

Dr. Townsend lived a life dedicated to ministry and family. He served as the Senior Minister of the First Baptist Church of Los Ángeles, California from 1965 - 1997, having first come as Associate Pastor in 1962. Prior to that, he served as the Baptist Chaplain at Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island, and as Youth Minister at the First Baptist Church of Redlands, California.

At the First Baptist Church of Los Ángeles, Rev. Dr. Townsend championed the vision and mission of an international, intercultural and ecumenical congregation in the heart of the city. American Baptist Churches U.S.A. acknowledged his impact with the Edward H. Rhodes Award for Outstanding Leadership in Urban Ministry. Following his retirement from the First Baptist Church of Los Ángeles in 1997, as Senior Minister Emeritus, he served as interim pastor at the Fairview Community Church in Costa Mesa, California.

Dr. Townsend was a significant part of the ABCOFLASH Regional family and a faithful minister of the Gospel. He was a blessing to many and will be missed. Memorial gifts may be made to the American Baptist Ministers and Missionaries Benefit Board Heritage of Sharing Appeal or the University of Redlands Scholarship Fund.

Rev. Kenneth Kho, Pastor of Temple Baptist Church wrote about his mentor, Rev. Dr. Townsend:

"My heart is heavy, my eyes are red as I receive the news that my mentor, the Rev. Dr. John H. Townsend, pastor emeritus of the First Baptist Church of Los Ángeles, had just died this morning. I visited him last June 19, 2019, 23 days ago, in his retirement home in Redlands, CA. Little did I know that that would be the last time I'll see him alive but I'm thankful that I had a chance to spend a little over an hour with him that day. We talked. We affirmed each other. I told him I loved him and that I am today largely because of his influence in my life. I prayed for him and Carol, his wife, before I left. I promised him I'll be back to see him again. I guess now that it'll be for a different occasion.

John gave me my first job here in the U.S. I first met him on the last Sunday of April 1993 when I first attended FBCLA as a visitor. He told me to come back the following day. I did. We talked and then he hired me right there and then. The first Sunday of May 1993, he introduced me to the whole church as new minister on staff. That was the start of many years of friendship based on mutual respect, mutual admiration, mutual love. During his retirement reception in 1997, I said in public that if I had just half of his pastoral care skills and half of his preaching skills, I'll be alright in my own ministry. I said that truthfully to honor him and his legacy of faithful local church ministry.

A few years after his retirement, I asked John to dedicate both of our children, Leila and Isaiah, on separate occasions five years apart. I wanted my children to be dedicated by one of the greatest pastors their dad has known. At least, that is something they could claim for themselves.

Every time I go to the American Baptist Green Lake Conference Center in Green Lake, Wisconsin, a holy ground for American Baptists, and I've been there a few times, I would make it a point to walk by Memory Lane and stop by a shed that has a plaque dedicated to John Townsend. There I would pray and meditate and thank God for this one great chance afforded me to have ever met and known John. Now that he's gone, I guess the next time I'm in Memory Lane at Green Lake, I will be offering a different prayer. I will be saying a different thanksgiving. I'll be thinking of different memories, happy memories, nonetheless. John is gone. The mantle has been passed on to me and to many others whom he has mentored through the years, as well. I just hope that I am worthy of it." 15

Irene “Jessie” Magaña June 27, 1918 – September 8, 2019

Irene was born in Fresno, CA on June 27, 1918. Graduate of the Spanish-American Baptist Seminary (SABS) and the Baptist Missionary Training School (BMTS). She married Simon and served as a pre-school teacher for many years. She moved to Atherton Baptist Homes in Alhambra, California on December 6, 1986. Irene was called Home to Glory on September 8, 2019.

We do thank Thee, O Saviour, for these blessings and pray to Thee that Thou wilt help us to resist the temptations that claim us at times for sin. May we do better in the future and give thanks to Thee for the mercies constantly shown us. Amen.

GRACE BEFORE MEALS – BRIEF PRAYERS, page 103, 1939 Donated to the GBF by Rev. Dr. José and Hna. Esther Arreguín.

Conference scheduled for June 16-19, 2020 “Celebrating Ministering Women: Radical. Redeemed. Ready.”

-SEE PAGE 21 FOR MORE INFORMATION-

Convención de Iglesias Bautista Hispanas (CIBH)

A planning committee has been formed by the Convención de Iglesias Bautista Hispanas (CIBH) to coordinate and plan the 100th Anniversary celebration to take place in 4 years. Donations may be made to the Convention in order to help with the costs of the grand celebration. If you have any questions, please contact Rev. Julio Hernández – President at (213) 749-4976.

La misión de la Convención de Iglesias Bautistas Hispanas es unir a las iglesias bautistas hispanas en compañerismo, cooperación y servicio para alcanzar mas efectivamente el suroeste de los Estados Unidos para el Reino de Dios.

Convención de Iglesias Bautista Hispanas (CIBH) Attn: Hna. Aida Arellano - Treasurer 7751 Palacio Ct. Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91730

www.ConvencionBautista.com 16

A PRAYER FOR NIGERIA~

Taken from The Voice of the Martyrs – October 2019 www.persecution.com

Sovereign Lord, holy and true, how long before the killing and suffering in Nigeria will end? How many more of our brothers and sisters will lost their lives for the sake of Your great name?

Father, may their witness be vibrant, as a lamp set on a hill. May their lives and actions demonstrate Your goodness. Give them hearts for reconciliation and forgiveness instead of revenge.

We thank You for healing the brokenhearted, comforting the mourning, binding up the wounded and being a father to the fatherless.

We ask that our brothers and sisters will know the love of Christ that surpasses all knowledge, that they may be filled with all the fullness of You. May they be rooted and established in Your love.

Oh, Lord, empower with new strength those who minister in the most difficult areas. Refresh their inner spirits and fill their cups to overflowing. May the gospel of peace that they share bring peace to this place of turmoil.

As You are able to soften the hardest of hearts, work in the hearts of every Islamist leader and fighter in Northern Nigeria. Impress them with Your love so they, too, may long to know and serve You.

May Your kingdom come in Nigeria. Amen.

======

Send-a-Blessing

Through the "Send-a-Blessing" outreach, countless lives have been touched! This ministry regularly ships publications free of charge—such as magazines, books and Bibles—to prisoners, members of the armed services, libraries and nonprofit programs. Send-a-Blessing’s postage and shipping costs are covered by various types of donations. “One of the most meaningful parts of our work is to be able to respond directly and establish relationships with people who want to give and with those who have a need. Our customers are amazing,” says Laura Alden, publisher of Judson Press and associate executive director of publishing at ABHMS. “Especially in this economy, it’s moving to witness these efforts—to make sure someone has access to a Bible, a devotional guide, a Christian book. It truly is a blessing.”

(800) 458-3766  www.JudsonPress.com 17

GUESS WHO!? Hints: -Born and raised in the Los Ángeles area. -Mother was a missionary in Baja California, music teacher and church pianist. -3rd generation American Baptist. -Favorite Mexican food: Chicken enchiladas -Currently works full-time in a non-profit organization and part-time in Ministry work. -Comes from a family of American Baptist Hispanic Answer on page 28 ministers and missionaries.

======100th Church Anniversary~ Primera Iglesia Bautista Hispana Santa Bárbara (PIBHSB)

 The FIRST Hispanic American Baptist Church founded in the U.S.A.

 Long History of Hispanic Baptist Ministry

 ALL inclusive church

Congratulations to PIBHSB on 100 years of ministry as an independent church: “We’ve only just begun!” 1919 – 2019. Affiliated –Pastor Susan Hernández with the American Baptist Cell (714) 603-9565 Churches U.S.A. [email protected] www.ABC-USA.org Formal celebration to follow.

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Letters, Emails, Notes and Suggestions Received~

The Gurrola Baptist Foundation (GBF) is always happy to hear from you! Send us your thoughts and we will share with all. All comments gladly accepted (positive, negative or in-between).

RE: FROM CONDEMNATION TO INCLUSION - Written by Pastor Susan Hernández

Grace and Mercy abounds, thank God. He even saved a wretch like me!

Rev. Andy Quient – ABCOFLASH, [email protected]

Hermano Joseph Gurrola: Thank you for the good work you – your newsletter [September 2019] is chock-full of information! The Gurrola Baptist Foundation does a great service to the Hispanic Baptist community by serving as a conduit of information.

I notice that some of the suggestions for the new Executive Minister of ABCOFLASH have to do with getting more women in leadership positions, and supporting women in ministry. In the next newsletter perhaps you could include an announcement about a conference scheduled for June 16-19, 2020: “Celebrating Ministering Women: Radical. Redeemed. Ready.” Information about the conference can be found at: www.RadicalRedeemedReady.com

Hermano Joseph, could you include an announcement in the GBF Newsletter in December or January? Any congregations with “significant” anniversaries in 2020 (usually 20 or 25, 50, 75, 100 years, etc.) would then be invited to request an anniversary certificate from the American Baptist Historical Society (ABHS). Thank you for helping us expand our ministry among Hispanic churches.

Rev. Priscilla E. Eppinger, Ph.D. – ABHS [email protected]

American Baptist Historical Society 3001 Mercer University Drive Atlanta, GA 30341 (678) 547-6680 ~ www.ABHSarchives.org

RE: CORRECT MAILING ADDRESS FOR HNA. MARINA SÁNCHEZ

Hna. Marina Sánchez Vice-President of the 2725 Sunset Lane Unión Bautista de Mujeres (UBM) San Bernardino, CA 92407 19

RE: $100.00 DONATION MADE TO THE CIBH FROM THE GBF, 100TH ANNIVERSARY – IN MEMORY OF REV. CARLOS M. GURROLA

"Oh Bondad tan infinita Hacia el mundo pecador Dios en Cristo revelando Su eternal y santo amor"

Esto dice el himnologo, creo que alli esta reflejada la bondad suya mi hermano Joseph. Gracias Dios le prospere este ministerio.

Rev. Julio Hernández – CIBH President, [email protected]

Dear Brother Joseph Gurrola, Gurrola Baptist Foundation: We gratefully acknowledge receipt of your contribution of $100.00 for the 100th Anniversary of our Convención de Iglesias Bautistas Hispanas (CIBH) [In Memory of Rev. Carlos M. Gurrola]. May the Lord bestow His blessings upon you, always.

Yours In Christ, Hna. Aida Arellano – CIBH Treasurer

Querido hermano Joseph, mi corazón está muy agradecido por haber pensado en mi hija Emma Sofía para hacerle esta entrevista; gracias por la publicación. Lo imprimiré y guardaré. Bendiciones.

Hna. Agueda Hernández - [email protected]

Good Morning Brother Gurrola, Praise the Lord for the $500.00 dollar donation that the Gurrola Baptist Foundation (GBF) sent for Scholarships for the UBNS Retreat 2020. God Bless you!

Hna. Magdalena Aguilar – UBM Treasurer, [email protected]

RE: PURCHASE OF A USED CAR FOR RAY SCHELLINGER’S TIJUANA MINISTRY

Wow, Joseph thank you so much for all the information you have shared and your willingness, eagerness, to help me find a solution.

Brother Ray Schellinger - [email protected]

Thank you for the information, hermano Joseph. Also, thank you for the cookies you sent to Mary Weaver. She shared some "Marías cookies" with me. How delicious!! Throwback memories from my childhood!

Rev. Adalia Gutiérrez Lee, [email protected] Area Director for Iberoamerica and the Caribbean Directora de Area para Iberoamérica y El Caribe International Ministries (IM)

20

BLESSINGS TO EVERYONE! Both my wife Margarita and I (Leonel) want to express on the deep gratitude we feel to the following people who have prayed and fasted for me during the chemotherapy treatment to combat the multiple myeloma (cancer of the blood) that my body is experiencing. They are: my relatives, my ABCOFLASH brethren in the faith, Alberto Mottesi Association and the members of Guerreros en Cristo and Manantial de Amor in the U.S. and abroad. I also want to include the staff of Harvest Bible University. I should also mention our gratitude to the brothers of Manantial de Amor in Los Ángeles for the love offering they sent us to help us pay part of the cost of the automatic chair that we had to install to climb the stairs of the apartment where we live. As a report of my current health status I can share with you that, thank God, after a successful prostate surgery, I have resumed chemotherapy treatment and we are confident that everything is under the wise and loving control of God. Once again, on behalf of my wife Margarita and mine, THANK YOU for your prayers, fasting and good wishes for my full recovery. Please continue to pray. I am in the middle of this process as if I were on an unknown land. I wish you many blessings from the Lord for you and all your relatives. AMEN! -Taken from the ABCOFLASH email communication.

Rev. Leonel Robaina - Former pastor of the Ministerios Manantial de Amor

RE: PURCHASE OF A USED CAR FOR RAY SCHELLINGER’S TIJUANA MINISTRY

Dear Joseph, Thank you for all your hard work to try and get a car for Ray Schellinger.

Mary Weaver – International Ministries (IM), [email protected]

Hno. Joseph: Por favor envíe correo a mi nueva dirección, [email protected] ¡Gracias y adelante! Hno. Edgar García, [email protected]

DO OUR WEBSITES: ABCOFLASH, ABCUSA, A.B. HISTORICAL SOCIETY, INTERNATIONAL MINISTRIES, A.B. WOMEN’S MINISTRIES & A.B. HOME MISSION SOCIETIES REFLECT THE DIVERSITY OF OUR DENOMINATION? Are there any pictures of the FIRST Hispanic Baptist church our denomination established? Are there any pictures of the Hispanic Baptist Conventions which have been meeting consistently since 1924? Are there any pictures of our pioneer leaders and Pastors of the Hispanic work, like Revs. Conrado Valdivia, Benjamín Urquidi, Carlos Gurrola, José I. Almanza, Elías Campos? Are there any pictures of our women leaders of our Hispanic churches, who also studied at the Spanish-American Baptist Seminary? Are there writings of Rev. Dr. José Arreguín, Rev. Dr. Ben Morales, or Rev. Dr. David Luna, that can be shared on the websites? Are there pictures of our Baptist seminary in ? Are there any pictures of the first Hispanic Women in Ministry Conference that was held in San Juan, Puerto Rico in 1994? Do our American Baptist websites reflect the diversity of our denomination? -Anonymous 21

Buenas tardes Hno. Joseph Gurrola. Ya recibimos la caja, muchas gracias. Damos gracias a Dios por cada prenda y por la bondad en tu corazón. Tijuana, Te comento también que ya me llego la aceptación del Departamento de Migración para mi residencia. ¡A DIOS GRACIAS! Estamos preparando el B.C. siguiente tramite. MÉXICO "EL DESEO DE LOS HUMILDES OÍSTE OH JEHOVA; TU DISPONES SU CORAZÓN, Y HACES ATENTO TU OÍDO" Salmo 10:17

Hna. Rosario Porras, [email protected] ======

Flyer shared with the GBF by:

~Ms. Joyce Lake~ American Baptist Women In Ministry -ABWIM-

For more information regarding the conference, contact Ms. Lake.

Email: [email protected]

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EL HOGAR CRISTIANO, Julio a Septiembre 1985, pgs. 4-5 Donated by Rev. José & Hna. Nancy Montaño 23

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Bakersfield, California

L/R: Rev. Dr. Roy A. Medley, Ian, Rev. José T. Guerra, Hna. Ramona Shawver, Mrs. Medley, and

Rev. Chuck Shawver.

PRIMERA IGLESIA PIBHSB BAUTISTA HISPANA SANTA BÁRBARA, CALIF.

¡Feliz Navidad! Merry

Christmas from all of us

to all of you!

Please keep our church in your prayers.

Pastora Susan Hernández

Isaiah 9:6-7 6For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. 7Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David's throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the LORD Almighty will accomplish this. 25 25

Rev. Dr. Sarah Halverson pastors an American Baptist Church in Costa Mesa, California affiliated and in covenant with the Evergreen Association Region of the American Baptist Churches U.S.A. (ABCUSA) www.ABC-USA.org and the Southern California Nevada Conference of the United Church of Christ (UCC) www.scncucc.org

Fairview Community Church~ Open, Welcoming and Affirming Church

Rev. Dr. Sarah Halverson 2525 Fairview Road Costa Mesa, California 92626 (714) 545-4610 Website: www.ocfairviewchurch.org Information, photo and logo taken from the church website: Email: [email protected] www.ocfairviewchurch.org

Rev. Dr. Sarah Halverson-Cano, senior pastor at Fairview Community Church: A native of Orange County, Pastor Sarah has a deep love of this community and feels called to serve with Fairview as a Beacon of Light in Orange County!

Her ministry at Fairview and within the larger community is a call to justice. She is a board member of Progressive Christians Uniting, the Southern California Affiliate of the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) and the chair of the Orange County board of Clergy and Laity United for Economic Justice (CLUE).

Education: She received a bachelor’s degree in religion and English Literature from Chapman University, and began work towards a PhD in the New Testament. After finishing coursework, Sarah felt compelled to enter the ministry, and so enrolled at Claremont School of Theology where she earned her masters of divinity. She later completed a doctorate degree in preaching at Chicago Theological Seminary. Sarah's academic studies have led her to Israel, where her interest in archaeology found her excavating at the ancient sites of Sepphoris and Cana.

Her love of studying the early life of Jesus and the social world in which he formulated his thoughts, ideas, and ministry, informs her approach to ministry. Highly influenced by Jesus' call to social action in pursuit of justice and peace and the Hebrew prophets Isaiah and Micah, Rev. Halverson finds herself drawn to justice issues, and compelled to fight for the rights of the oppressed.

Awards and Recognition: She has been honored by the Orange County Labor Federation with the Bridge Award because of her ministry with working families, the Los Ángeles chapter of Council of American Islamic Relations (CAIR) with the Courage Award because of her outspoken support of and work with Muslims, and in May of 2012 was honored to receive the Community Leader Award by the Orange County Human Relations Committee for her active work within the larger Orange County community which included her work with the LGBTQ community, low wage workers, immigrants, and interfaith work. Sarah has also been honored by “Women For” as a female activist making a difference in Orange County, and as an “Architect of Justice” from Clergy and Laity United for Economic Justice.

She leads her congregation to continue to strive to be God’s light for justice and peace speaking out whenever injustice presents itself.  26

EVERGREEN ASSOCIATION OF AMERICAN BAPTIST CHURCHES Rev. Dr. Douglas Avilesbernal ABC Executive Minister USA 409 3rd Avenue S, Suite #A www.ABC-USA.org Kent, WA 98032

(253) 859-2226 Email: [email protected]

=THE EVERGREEN WAY=

WHAT IS EVERGREEN? EVERGREEN ASSOCIATIO N OF AMERICAN B A P T I S T CHURCHES IS AN AMERI CAN BAPTIST REGION O F CHURCHES IN ALASKA, CALIFORNI A, COLORADO, IDAHO, UTAH, VENEZUELA AND WASHINGTON DOING BUS INESS BY CONSENSUS A ND ORGANIZED BY ETHNIC CAUCUSES.

OUR MISSION - BEING A CULTURALLY D IVERSE PEOPLE WHO AR E O N E IN CHRIST A ND WHO VALUE THE LIB ERTIES OF OUR AMERIC AN BAPTIST HERITAGE, THE EVERGR EEN BAPTIST ASSOCIAT I O N W I L L :

. BUILD BRIDGES BETWEE N COMMUNITIES;

. PROVIDE RESOURCES TO EQUIP MEMBER CHURCHE S TO SHARE CHRIST AND TEACH GOD ' S W O R D ;

. TRANSLATE OUR UNITY TO THE WORLD.

OUR PURPOSE - EVERGREEN CHURCHES B UILD BRIDGES THAT CA R R Y THE MESSAGE OF WHO W E ARE AND ACCEPTS TH E MESSAGE OF WHO OTHERS ARE. THOSE BR IDGES OPEN THE DOOR FOR THE CREATION OF RELATIONSHIPS. RELAT IONSHIPS BEGIN THROU GH PARTICIPATION IN EVERGREEN THAT LEAD T O AN INCREASED NUMBE R OF PEOPLE BEING INVOLVED, AND INTENT IONAL INTERGENERATIO NAL CONNECTIONS. THOSE RELATIONSHIPS RESULT IN SUPPORT OF ONE ANOTHER THROUGH ACCEPTANCE, UNDERSTA NDING AND SENSITIVIT Y TO OUR CULTURAL DIFFERENCES. SO THAT MORE PEOPLE NOW LIVE AND TELL THE EVERGREEN STORY.

OUR UNITY - THE PEOPLE WHO CREAT ED EVERGREEN ENVISIO N E D A COMMUNITY OF CHURCHE S WORKING TOGETHER A S ONE IN UNITY AND IN SPIRIT. THEY FELT THAT THE BEST W AY TO HONOR THAT VIS I O N WAS TO STRUCTURE THE ORGANIZATION WHERE DECISIONS ARE MADE THROUGH ETHNIC CAUCU SES AND CONSENSUS DE CISION MAKING. THIS STRUCTURE IS UN IQUE AMONG THE VARIO US REGIONS OF THE DENOMINATION OF AMER ICAN BAPTIST CHURCHE S U S A (ABCUSA) WWW.ABC - USA.ORG

Information & photo taken www.ea-abc.org from the region’s website. 27

=GBF SPONSOR=

FARMERS INSURANCE Robbins Insurance Agency Ruth Gonzáles-Duarte -Office Manager- 1201 So. Beach Blvd., Suite #106 La Habra, CA 92807 (562) 697-3300 (562) 694-8065

L/R: Rev. Grimaldo Enríquez and Hno. Héctor M. González SPACE 4 GRACE – Los Ángeles, CA “Making a positive influence on the world through social justice!”

L/R: Rev. Dr. José L. Ortiz and Hno. Joseph Gurrola A.B. HISPANIC CAUCUS MEETING

 2019 GURROLA HONOREES – If you would like to mail a note, card or call Hnos. Héctor & Argentina González, here is their information: 17846 No. 80th Place, Scottsdale, ARIZONA 85255 h (480) 502-3257 c (480) 231-0212

 Answer to the GUESS WHO question: Hno. Joseph Gurrola

 GURROLA BAPTIST FOUNDATION || FUNDACIÓN BAUTISTA GURROLA  Rev. Dr. Ben F. García – Chairman of the Board || Rev. Dr. Mario-Seth Morales-Segura – Co-Chairman Post Office Box 7706 ~ Alhambra, California 91802 U.S.A.

By submitting material for publication, you grant the Gurrola Baptist Foundation (GBF), the Editor use of the material & photos, including your name, hometown, state, and church information. We reserve the right to modify, reproduce and distribute the material in any medium and in any manner or appropriate place, in full consultation with the Chairman of the Board and/or the Co-Chairman.

Date: November/December 2019 || Editor: Hno. Joseph Gurrola (626) 500-7802

¡ADELANTE SIERVIENDO AL SEÑOR! COMMISSIONED AND DIRECTED BY OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST! TO GOD BE ALL THE GLORY! 28