January Update - Moving Forward in Faith for Land and a Building!

Hello everyone,

     Hope you're doing well in this New Year and staying warm as cold weather sweeps across the nation! It's snowing quite a bit here in Pueblo, CO. These are exciting times for CC Roca Norte and we would love your prayer as we ask the Lord for wisdom, guidance and provision for each step!
     The main thing that Pastor Jose and the CCRN leadership are currently working on is the purchase of land for the construction of a new church building in the northern part of the city, near an area called Riberas (pictures below). The church has rented a building to meet in since the early days of its inception (when I was pastoring the church). With rising rent and the continued instability of owners considering selling the property, the situation has become more difficult in the last year or so. As the church grows, the space is also more and more difficult to fit in.
     However, it seems as though the Lord is starting to open doors and stir the hearts of various people in order to provide a solution. #1) CC Roca Norte is on the verge of obtaining its official AC designation from the Mexican government (much like a 501c3 in the U.S)--which is a critical step to owning land. They've been working hard on this for over three years, but governmental bureaucracy makes it a very difficult and lengthy process in Mexico. #2) God provided what seems like a divine connection between Pastor Jose and a ministry called Lazarian World Homes that helps churches throughout Mexico construct church buildings (website here). As long as the church owns the land, helps with labor and supports with a small portion of the building cost, the ministry takes the primary role in constructing the church building. They are talking with the leadership of CC Roca Norte about starting construction this summer. The plans are for the building to be close to 100 ft x 400 ft and able to fit around 250 people. #3) Through connections with local missionaries, CC Roca Norte has identified land in a good area that they believe the Lord is calling them to purchase.
     Please join us in praying for this ambitious step of faith. We are confident the Lord is in it and will provide a long-term home for the church to meet in. Our prayer is that this location will serve as a shining light in the community, pointing many to Jesus! The total costs are staggering at first glance--especially with how expensive land is in Chihuahua and the value of the peso falling in comparison with the U.S. dollar. The total price of the land (3 lots combined) is $97,762 USD (at the current peso/dollar exchange rate). The down-payment will be $11,111 USD and then they plan on making monthly payments thereafter on a 3 year note. Our current fundraising focus is on raising $30,000 USD ($11,000 downpayment, $1,000 paperwork/closing costs, $15,000 CCRN building responsibility & $3,000 in miscellaneous land/construction costs).
     We're trusting in the Lord to meet us and provide in this step of faith. "And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus. Now to our God and Father be glory forever and ever. Amen." (Phil. 4:19-20) Please join us in praying for the Lord to provide in an incredible way that brings Him glory. If you, your church or anyone you know would like to support this work financially, you can visit our website below and scroll down to the "Donate" section for more information. You can also contact me personally if you would like to talk more about the details. Thank you and have a blessed week!

-Tim
Eph. 3:20-21

Praise Reports
- The Lord has been opening doors for this land/construction project with the connection with the Lazarian ministry and the missionaries selling the land.

- CC Roca Norte finished its first year and there is a graduating couple praying about planting a church in the southern part of Chihuahua!

- The church is going well and continues to grow as new families come and get connected.

Prayer Requests
- For the Lord's provision for the fundraising of this land/construction project. That God would guide and give wisdom throughout the process.

- For the finalization of the Mexican AC process for the church.

- For Pastor Jose's current trip to Ensenada and the Rodeo outreach that he's participating in. That God would use he and the others powerfully and that many would get saved through the outreach.

- For the second generation of the CC Roca Norte Church Planting school, that God would train and prepare the students and that church planters would be raised up and sent throughout Mexico.

- For the couple mentioned above that graduated from the 2025 church planting school and is praying about launching a church plant in the southern portion of the city. That God would guide them and confirm the details of their calling.

- For Daniela Jimenez, a student from CC Roca Norte that is starting her first semester at Calvary Chapel Bible College (Jose & Keyla took her to the campus on their current Ensenada trip).

- That God would continue to guide and provide so that we can continue helping the ministry in Creel with the construction of their church building.

- For the different services and studies throughout the week at CC Roca Norte including home groups, men’s and women’s meetings and more. That God would use each one for His glory.

*(For all who gave financially in 2025, donation receipts for tax purposes will be mailed out shortly).

September Update - New Opportunities for Fulfilling the Great Commission in Chihuahua

Hello everyone,

God is always moving to advance His kingdom and reach more people with the Gospel. He's doing it in the U.S., He's doing it in Mexico and He's doing it all over the world. In Chihuahua, Pastor Jose and Roca Norte continue marching forward and looking for the open doors that God wants them to walk through. They've continued the church planting school with the second semester starting earlier this month. They've been training and walking with one couple in the program who are praying about launching a church plant in the southern portion of the city--perhaps as soon as next year. It's all about building God's kingdom, not our own. Pastor Jose and the church continue to exemplify that in a very special way.

Another thing that Roca Norte is praying about (and would love your prayer for as well!) is the potential of obtaining their own land and church building. They've been renting a church building the last few years but rising rent makes things difficult and they would love a building with a little more space. They were recently approached with a couple offers for land north of the city. They're working hard to finalize their A-C (501c3 equivalent in Mexico), which is the first step. Then they also need the Lord to provide the funds for them to buy the land while continuing to pay rent for their current location. There is a ministry that Pastor Jose has connected with that helps build churches throughout Mexico--so this ministry has said they will help Roca Norte build the church once the church owns the land.

Please continue to pray with us for wisdom for Pastor Jose and the Roca Norte leaders--that they may know which open doors to walk through and when as they join with God's plan to reach Chihuahua with the Gospel. Thanks and have a blessed day!

-Tim

Eph. 3:20-21

Praise Reports
-The church took a mission trip to Creel (in the mountains) and it went really well. We were able to do a few outreaches, pass out tennis shoes and toys, help with some construction and help with their Sunday service.

- The church is going well and continues to grow as new families come and get connected.

- Last year, our son Daniel broke his femur and required surgery. His recovery afterward was remarkable as God healed him rapidly. Today, he is back to full health, playing soccer again. This week, his team won the city championship and soon they will be going to the state championship tournament! We are thankful for God’s goodness in healing him!

- God provided for us to be able to install 1 minisplit in the children’s classroom upstairs!

Prayer Requests
- For the opportunities to purchase land for the church in the northern portion of the city. That God would guide and show Roca Norte's leadership which open door is from Him and when His perfect timing is. That God would provide financially and for all necessary logistical needs.

- Continued prayer for the students of the CC Roca Norte Church Planting school, that God would persist in His work within them and affirm their calling.

- For the couple mentioned above that is praying about launching a church plant in the southern portion of the city.

- That God would continue to guide and provide so that we can continue helping the ministry in Creel with the construction of their church building.

- The church continues working on forming their A-C (Mexican equivalent of a 501c3). They are in the final stages and have been raising money to pay the necessary fees. The Lord has been providing much of the money and they are very close to finalizing the process.

- We would really appreciate prayer for our family as we start working on our visas.

- Continued prayer for provision for construction on the second floor of our church building. We want to apply insulation to the wood to minimize noise from the children’s rooms (they are over the sanctuary). We’re also still hoping to install 1 more mini-split to help with heat and AC in the room.

- For the different services and studies throughout the week at CC Roca Norte including home groups, men’s and women’s meetings and more. That God would use each one for His glory.

June Update - What's new with CC Roca Norte?

Hello everyone,

It's summer! I don't know about where you are but here in southern Colorado it's starting to heat up. I know it's starting to get pretty warm in Chihuahua too!

As I've talked with Pastor Jose recently, one thing that he's mentioned consistently is CC Roca Norte's pursuit of their Asociación Civil (A-C) designation. An A-C is the Mexican version of a U.S. 501c3 as a non-profit organization. Getting their A-C would give the church benefits from the government and help with placing accounts and assets in the church's name. In Mexico, there are limitations on how soon a church is allowed to pursue its A-C designation. It's also a longer process in Mexico that involves lots of time, waiting, money, paperwork, etc. as you jump through the many bureaucratic hoops. It's been something on the heart of Jose and the CC Roca Norte leadership for the last few years, but they're excited as it seems like the process is finally moving forward.

We're excited to see CC Roca Norte further established and to see how God continues to use the church to reach Chihuahuenses with the Gospel and make them disciples of Jesus!

-Tim

Eph. 3:20-21

Praise Reports
-Last month, CC Roca Norte wrapped up the first semester of their church planting school! Out of the 14 students who started, only six of the members completed the program. This really highlights the challenge of the journey and, most importantly, answering God's call. The growth they've experienced has been amazing, not just in the verse-by-verse workshop but also in their service and connection with the Lord.
-God provided for the church to be able to install 2 mini-splits in the kids’ classrooms on the 2nd floor! This will really help the children and kids’ ministry teachers, especially as the weather gets hotter!

Prayer Requests
-Continued prayer for the students of the CC Roca Norte Church Planting school, that God would persist in His work within them and affirm their calling. They just finished their first semester and will begin their second and final semester soon.
-As I stated above, the church continues working on forming their A-C (Mexican equivalent of a 501c3). They
are in the final stages and have been raising money to pay the necessary fees. The Lord has been providing much of the money and they are very close to finalizing the process.
-Pastor Jose and his family are asking for prayer regarding obtaining their passports and visas.
-In July, the church is planning another mission trip to the Creel mountains where they will team up with a ministry there to share the Gospel with some Raramurian communities.
-Continued prayer for provision for construction on the second floor of the church building. They want to apply insulation to the wood to minimize noise from the children’s rooms (they are over the sanctuary). We’re also still hoping to install 2 more mini-splits to help with air conditioning during these summer months.
-For the different services and studies throughout the week at CC Roca Norte including home groups, men’s and women’s meetings and more. That God would use each one for His glory.

April Update - Catch up on what's happening with Roca Norte!

Hello everyone,

     Hope you're having a great Spring! As always, we want to keep you up-to-date on what is happening in Chihuahua with CC Roca Norte and the Romero family. We'll highlight a couple main things here up top, but if you have a minute, please check out the praise reports, prayer requests and pictures below for more info on what's happening. As always, we thank you so much for continued prayer and support for the church.

     One exciting thing that has been happening over the last few months is the CC Roca Norte Church Planting School. Discipling and raising up church planters is something that has been on Pastor Jose's heart and my heart for many years--since the beginning of Roca Norte. The end of the first semester is drawing near and God has really been blessing the classes and the group. The group started at around 15 people, but over time that number has dwindled to 7-8. We're excited to see what God is going to continue doing IN and THROUGH that group! Pastor Jose & Keyla were able to bring many of those student to the Calvary Chapel Church Planting conference in Mazatlan in the beginning of March. The students loved the event and were deeply impacted, encouraged and challenged!

     Another exciting trip for the Romero family was to Ensenada. Jose & Keyla were able to see family there and relax a little. Jose said he was really blessed to spend time with his family and celebrate a few birthdays as it was their first time back together as the whole family since his dad's funeral. They also brought a small group from CC Roca Norte with them to Ensenada to attend the Calvary Chapel Bible College open house. They loved it and two CC Roca Norte students are now planning to attend Bible College in the fall! In the midst of the busy week, the group was able to also visit the church in Ojos Negros that the Romero family planted years ago. Jose preached for the service and said it was a huge blessing to see the church doing well and faithfully continuing forward in their walks with Jesus. Jose's brother-in-law, Samuel, has been faithfully serving the Lord as the pastor of CC Ojos Negros since the Romero family left.

     Thanks again for walking with us in this and for your prayer and encouragement! Please reach out if you have any questions or would like to hear more about what's happening. Have a great week!

-Tim
Eph. 3:20-21

Praise Reports
-They are approaching the end of the first semester of the CC Roca Norte Church Planting School!
-As the church has been growing, Pastor Jose appointed new leaders over the men's ministry (Alex) and the youth ministry (Leon).
-The church had been praying for a means of transportation for many in the congregation. Praise the Lord, He answered that prayer and provided a van for the Romero family that they are also using to give rides to people in the congregation!

Prayer Requests
-Continued prayer for the students of the CC Roca Norte Church Planting school, that God would persist in His work within them and affirm their calling.
-Continued prayer for Pastor Jose's family, that God would give them comfort and strength as they navigate the loss of Jose's father.
-The church continues working on forming their A-C (Mexican equivalent of a 501c3). They are in the final stages and have been raising money to pay the necessary fees. The Lord has been providing much of the money and they are very close to finalizing the process.
-Later this month, the church is planning a weekend missions trip to the mountains of Chihuahua to work with a church there that's ministering to the Raramuri communities in the area.
-CC Roca Norte continues supporting the Lazaro Cardenas ministry in the mountains. The cartel operates in the area and God has put a burden on their hearts for the young people there that the cartel is recruiting and impacting. So they are planning different activities focused on reaching the young people with the Gospel.
-The church in Lazaro Cardenas still needs a pastor and CCRN is continuing to pray for wisdom and guidance as to whether or not God is calling them to send someone (and who it would be).
-They continue to ask for prayer for renovation needs for the 2nd story of the church building. They need to install some sort of insulation/padding on the wood floor so that the kids ministry upstairs won't cause so many distractions during service for the sanctuary downstairs. They are also looking to install mini-splits to help with heating and AC.
-For the different services and studies throughout the week at CC Roca Norte including home groups, men’s and women’s meetings and more. That God would use each one for His glory.

Vision Update--A Church that Plants Churches

Throughout the years, we have sought to consistently keep our supporters well-informed about Roca Norte and the vision God has given us for reaching Chihuahua and all of Mexico with the Gospel. For me (Tim), this is the most emotional vision update I’ve written. To understand why, I encourage you to walk with me along the path of what God has done over the last 9 years. If you have just a few minutes to look at the updates below, I think you’ll be blessed and I think you’ll be left in awe of God’s sovereignty and wisdom, just as I am today:

Original Ives Missions update video before leaving the U.S. (2016)

First Vision Update (2016)

Vision Update - Birth of Roca Norte (2019)

Vision Update - Leading the church (July 2022)

Update about leaving Mexico (September 2022)

Video announcing Pastor Jose (October 2022)

Vision Update - Transition (2023)

God has been good and God has been faithful. One common thread you’ll find throughout those updates is that we always knew that God called us to Chihuahua to plant a church that would plant churches. I always thought I would be the one to be able to do that. That was the long-term vision and underlying inspiration for much of what I did as a missionary. That’s why, when we had to leave so abruptly at the end of 2022, I struggled with the Lord and the vision He had given me. Did I hear incorrectly? Did I do something wrong? Was He going to fail to fulfill the promises He had given? But as the verse from Isaiah 55 that I quote so often says, “His ways are not our ways and His thoughts are not our thoughts.” He always intended to bring Pastor Jose to Chihuahua. He knew that Pastor Jose would have the same heart for training church planters as I did—because God is the One that gave us both the same passion.

Fast-forward to today in the beginning of 2025. Just a couple weeks ago, Pastor Jose and CC Roca Norte officially launched their church planting school with 15 students enrolled! God is faithful and He knows what He is doing. I’m able to support from the U.S. with prayer, finances and communication while God is using Pastor Jose powerfully to raise up locals as church-planters and pastors. I believe this is only the beginning. Our desire is to see an army of church planters raised up to make disciples all throughout Mexico! If that’s something that inspires you—that you’d like to be a part of—please consider walking with us in prayer and financial support. 100% of everything given to Roca Norte Missions is sent down to Chihuahua to support the work God is doing (minus processing and transfer fees). God has been moving from the beginning of the ministry and I know that He will continue to move.

“Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen.” —Ephesians 3:20-21

-Tim

January Update--Prayer Support for Difficult Times & New Beginnings

Hello everyone,

     Happy New Year! I know it's been a while since I've sent out an update, I'm sorry for that. I was planning on sending this out and focusing on exciting news about the launch of something years in the making, but Pastor Jose and his family were hit with some difficult circumstances yesterday, so the tone of this update has changed a little.

     Yesterday morning, Jose got news that his father passed away. He was able to fly to Tijuana yesterday to join the family as they mourn. On top of that, Jose was in a car accident yesterday morning as well. Everyone is safe, praise the Lord, but the car is totaled. (It's their only car). I'm sure Jose and his family are facing a whole range of emotions as they seek to stay focused on Jesus and rest in Him during these difficult times. Please pray for him and his family.

     Adding to the range of emotions they are facing, January is the month that CC Roca Norte is set to launch their Church Planting School. I'm not sure what impact yesterday's events will have on the launch but I know it's something very important to Pastor Jose and CCRN. They have over 15 students signed up for the program. This is something dear to my heart as well, as I felt called to disciple and raise up church planters before we even arrived in Chihuahua around 10 years ago. We always felt like that was the core of our calling to Chihuahua and the launch of Roca Norte. It's beautiful to see the Lord bringing it to fruition after all these years--even if it's in a different way than we expected. Please pray for the details and the Lord's perfect timing with the launch of the Church Planting School.

-Tim
Eph. 3:20-21

Praise Reports
-They are planning to start their Church Planting School this month and 15 people are already enrolled!
-They just finished a small construction project at the church to change the entrance to the building so that there is a foyer and more room for the sanctuary.
-The church has been growing as people from the community surrounding the church have begun to attend and get more involved.

Prayer Requests
-Please pray for strength and comfort for Jose and his family as they deal with the loss of his father. That it will find their comfort in Jesus and that those in his family that don't know Jesus will turn to Him.
-For provision, wisdom and guidance for what to do for transportation now that their car has been totaled.
-For the Church Planting School that is starting this month. For wisdom regarding the details and logistics. That the Lord would be working in each teacher and student to respond to the call to go and plant where the Holy Spirit is guiding them.
-CC Roca Norte continues supporting the Lazaro Cardenas ministry in the mountains. The cartel operates in the area and God has put a burden on their hearts for the young people there that the cartel is recruiting and impacting. So they are planning different activities focused on reaching the young people with the Gospel.
-The church in Lazaro Cardenas needs a pastor and CCRN is praying about a couple options that they could send from the church. One is the Assistant Pastor and worship leader Mario and his wife Celeste. Pray for the Lord to clarify His calling for that couple and for the other couple that is also praying about it.
-They are trying to form their AC (Mexican equivalent of a 501c3). They are in the final stages and are trying to raise the money to pay the necessary fees. Please pray for the Lord’s provision.
-For the different services and studies throughout the week at CC Roca Norte including home groups, men’s and women’s meetings and more. That God would use each one for His glory.

August Update--Summer of Ministry

Hello everyone,

     Summer is coming to an end and, as usual, it was a hot one in Chihuahua! But in the midst of the heat, lots of ministry was happening in and through CC Roca Norte and Pastor Jose.
     In the middle of the summer, I (Tim) was able to visit Chihuahua for the first time since our family moved to the U.S. (almost 2 years ago!). I was able to fellowship with everyone from the church, officiate Mario's wedding (he is the worship leader of the church) and preach the Sunday sermon. It was such a blessing being there again and seeing many of those that previously attended the church still faithfully seeking Jesus as part of the church.
     Pastor Jose was also able to attend two different church planting conferences in other parts of Mexico. He felt refreshed, equipped, challenged and blessed by the fellowship of other pastors throughout Mexico with a similar passion for raising up church planters. The church itself continued strong with it's weekly ministry gatherings as it continues to focus on reaching the city with the Gospel and making disciples. They also had a summer family retreat in the mountains! They camped together, worshipped, received the Word from Jose and another pastor and had baptisms. They also served together by helping with construction improvements on a local church there in the mountains that they've kind of adopted and continue supporting.
     One other update that we'd love prayer for. My (Tim) grandma Bonnie went home to be with Jesus last month. Many of you prayed for her with us when she was first diagnosed with cancer a few years ago. Please continue to pray for the family--my grandma was the backbone of the family in many ways. Thank you for your prayers and encouragements. It was hard to say good-bye but we know she's with Jesus now, enjoying every second!
     There are lots of pictures for you to check out below and please continue praying for the church and Pastor Jose and family. They need it and they so appreciate your prayers! Have a blessed week!

-Tim
Eph. 3:20-21

Praise Reports
-My trip to Mexico went really well and was a huge blessing! Mario & Celeste are married!
-Jose had a great time at two different church planting conferences.
-CC Roca Norte had a great family retreat where they were able to fellowship, draw closer to Jesus and bless another smaller church.

Prayer Requests
-For the Church Planting School in CC Roca Norte.
-For the Pastor's Conference in Chihuahua in September that Pastor Jose will be involved with helping organize.
-For each service at the church during the week like teachings, Men's ministry, Women's ministry and Home Groups. That God would use each one for His glory.
-That the church would continue to reach the Chihuahua with the Gospel and make disciples of Jesus.
-That God would continue to provide for the financial needs of the church--especially the monthly rent.
-The God would point my entire family to Jesus as the answer and give us peace after the passing of my grandma Bonnie.
-That God would continue to touch my mom Susan's body during the cancer treatments and my mother-in-law Aleyda as she continues to recover from her health issues.

May Update--Resting in God's Faithfulness in the Midst of Difficulties

Hello everyone,

     Isn't it a blessing to be able rest in the constant, unwavering faithfulness of God? Although His faithfulness is ever reliable, that doesn't mean that we won't face difficulties. In the book of Isaiah the Lord tells us "For My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways...For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts." (Isaiah 55:8-9). His faithfulness doesn't remove all difficulties and pain from our lives. His faithfulness guarantees that He will be with us in the midst of those difficulties and that He will use them for our good as believers and for His glory. He will always remain good and trustworthy, even in the midst of hard times.
     Roca Norte and Pastor Jose's family have been going through a challenging season and I ask you to join me in keeping them in prayer. One big event that happened a couple weeks ago involved their youngest son Daniel. He was playing on a merry-go-round at the park when he fell off and broke his femur. The next day, he went into surgery to correct the break and the surgeon had to place multiple screws to help the bone heal properly. Daniel is in good spirits as he recuperates. We're praying that he heals quickly and that there aren't long-term difficulties with the injury. (You can see his picture below). Besides Daniel, Pastor Jose asks for prayer for the health of others in the church. Adriana, the church treasurer was rushed to the ER with appendicitis and had to have her appendix removed. There's also a new family in the church with two young girls that have been very sick with what seems like flu-like symptoms. They are concerned as the sickness has not responded to any medications and has lasted longer than expected.
     Finally, Roca Norte and Pastor Jose's family could use continued prayer for finances. Jose is now working two other jobs, besides pastoring the church, in order to provide for the needs of his family and the church. He works as a barber during the days, drives for Uber during the mornings and focuses on Roca Norte during the evenings. He's such an encouragement to me as he never complains but just continues faithfully serving the Lord and working hard. He keeps resting in the Lord's faithfulness even in the midst of difficulties. Thanks for praying for Jose, Keyla, their two boys Lemuel and Daniel and the entire church at CC Roca Norte. Your prayer has a larger impact than you know.

-Tim
Eph. 3:20-21

Praise Reports
-Daniel's surgery went well and he's at home recuperating.
-There are new families attending CC Roca Norte and the church continues growing as it's reaching more people in the surrounding community with the Gospel!
-Once a month Roca Norte takes a mission trip to the mountains to support a small church there. The Lord has been able to use them and it's also a blessing to those in the church that go.
-I'm planning to visit Chihuahua next month for the first time since we left. Mario, the worship leader at the church, is getting married and I'm going to help with his wedding. I'm excited to go!

Prayer Requests
-That Daniel's leg would heal completely and there would be no long-term side-effects from the injury.
-For Adriana's recuperation and healing after her appendix surgery.
-For the two young girls in the church that have been sick. That they would begin to respond to medication and get better.
-For the financial situation of Pastor Jose and CC Roca Norte. That God would provide through the members of the church, through missions giving here in the U.S. and in any other way He wants to.
-For my trip to Chihuahua next month.
-For David, the intern that was helping at CC Roca Norte for the last several months. He ended up deciding that God was calling him to return home to Guerrero to serve in his church there.
-That God would continue giving wisdom to Pastor Jose and the CC Roca Norte leadership with how to best serve those in the church and point them to Jesus.
-For my mom (Susan) and her continued battle with cancer. She finished yet another round of chemo and this latest round seemed to be the most effective so far. For her healing and that she would continue clinging to Jesus through it all.

February Update - Praise Reports in Mexico and Here at Home

Hello everyone,

     God is faithful. He continues His work in our lives and all around us and all we can do is stand in awe of Him! Lamentations 3:22-23 says, "Through the LORD's mercies we are not consumed, Because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning; Great is Your faithfulness." We'll share one way that God has shown His faithfulness in Chihuahua with CC Roca Norte and one way that He's shown His faithfulness here in the U.S. with Roca Norte Missions. After that I highly encourage you to check out the praise reports and prayer requests at the end as many of them are directly from Pastor Jose.

     Although we could share many things about what God is doing in Chihuahua, one that has been a HUGE blessing for the church and Pastor Jose is the arrival of David Galicia to serve as an intern at the church. David graduated from Calvary Chapel Bible College in Ensenada and will now be spending at least the next few months in Chihuahua serving Jesus at CC Roca Norte. David will be serving in a sort of Assistant Pastor role, primarily taking on the youth ministry and helping in many other ways around the church. I know David has been a great blessing to Pastor Jose and we're excited to hear how God continues using David to bring Christ glory in Chihuahua!

     Here on the U.S. side, we have an exciting praise report! Roca Norte Missions has officially received it's legal 501(c)(3) status from the IRS! That was the final step we were waiting for and it happened much sooner than we thought it would! I've attached the IRS letter below. :) Please pray that the Lord would give us wisdom on how to best support and encourage the work in Chihuahua and throughout all of Mexico. If you or your church would like to support what God is doing in Mexico, you can contact me directly or find more info on website listed below.

     Thanks for all of you prayer and support and may we continue to rest in God's faithfulness that is new each morning! God bless!

-Tim
Eph. 3:20-21

Praise Reports
-In CC Roca Norte, God is working and in these last few months various families have arrived and are committing themselves to walking with the Lord (Pastor Jose).
-Up until this point the Lord has continued to help us. God has been so faithful to our family and His church to supply us with all of His riches in glory (Pastor Jose).
-God walked us through the entire process of creating the non-profit organization, from start to finish. We are excited to have this tool to be able to do all things above reproach and be a part of what Jesus is doing in Mexico (Tim).
-God has continued to be faithful to our family as we've really been finalizing the long-term transition over these last few months. The family is doing well, we've gotten really plugged in at the church here, our jobs are going well, we were able to move into a house and my mom is doing well physically. God is good! (Tim)

Prayer Requests
-For the new families that have been arriving at the church, that they would be strengthened and discipled (Pastor Jose).
-For the leadership of CC Roca Norte that we would be an instrument for His glory (Pastor Jose).
-For the mission of Lazaro Cardenas that they would be encouraged to continue walking with the Lord (Pastor Jose).
-For provision for our family (Pastor Jose).
-For the new church planting school of CC Roca Norte that will be kicking off in August (Pastor Jose).
-For 1 or 2 short term mission trips that we are planning to Chihuahua this summer, that God would give us wisdom and guidance for those trips (Tim).
-For my mom Susan and her continued chemo treatments for her cancer (Tim).

December Update - Merry Christmas from Roca Norte Missions!

"For unto us a Child is born, Unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace."
-Isaiah 9:6

Hello everyone & Merry Christmas!

     Praise God for the wonderful gift of His Son! We celebrate Jesus this time of year and how incredible it is that God became flesh and came to dwell among us.

     We want to share one big piece of news for you as 2023 comes to a close. We as Roca Norte Missions are in the final stretches of submitting paperwork and completing the process of applying for our U.S. 501c3 non-profit status! In fact, just yesterday we were able to finally open a bank account in the name of Roca Norte Missions! For those of you that have been following along with us or have talked to me, you know that this is a big deal for the ministry! We are excited to be able receive tax-deductible contributions and do everything completely to a T how it should be done. We are praying that honoring God with small details like this will lead to more giving for the ministry in Chihuahua so that they can do even more to reach the city with the Gospel! (If you'd like to give to Roca Norte Missions, see below for more information on how).

     As we all celebrate the Christmas season here in the States, CC Roca Norte is also doing the same and continuing to point Chihuahua to Jesus. They are getting comfortable in their new building and are excited because more and more families from the neighboring community have started to attend the services and events! When I last talked to Pastor Jose, he was also excited because they are starting to collaborate with other churches in the city to do joint events and services in order to foster fellowship and have a greater impact on the city. God is moving in Chihuahua! On another exciting note, CC Roca Norte is also moving forward through the legal process for receiving the Mexican version of a 501c3 (called an AC). Please continue to pray for wisdom, favor and God's provision for that process.

     Thank you for all your prayer, support and encouragement as always. Have a wonderful Christmas as you celebrate the birth of Jesus and a Happy New Year as you move forward into another year basking in God's boundless grace. We love you guys.

-Tim
Eph. 3:20-21

Praise Reports
-We were able to open a bank account for Roca Norte Missions!
-We had our first official Roca Norte Missions board meeting where we ratified our official documents and policies to initiate things as a legal non-profit organization.
-CC Roca Norte is growing as families from the surrounding area are attending and being impacted by the Gospel!

Prayer Requests
-For the continued financial provision for Pastor Jose and his family as well as for the church (especially for their monthly rent expense).
-For vision and wisdom for Pastor Jose as he leads the church and seeks to reach many in Chihuahua with the Gospel.
-For spiritual, physical and financial protection for Pastor Jose and his family.
-For the church-planting program that Pastor Jose and others are going through. That God would raise up men and their families to plant churches throughout Mexico.
-That I would be able to visit Chihuahua soon and maybe even be able to lead a team down there to help support the ministry.
-For my mom's cancer. We got news this week that the cancer has grown quite a bit on her liver. She has an appointment next week to talk about the next steps--they likely include biotherapy.

If you're interested in giving to the ministry, you can address a check to Roca Norte Missions and send it to:
344 W. Linden Ave.
Pueblo West, CO 81007

(You can also still give online through the website).

October Update - Coming Up on the 1 Year Anniversary of Our Return

Hello everyone,

     We're already barreling into fall and I don't know about you but I love it! Priscilla and I have found ourselves a little more reflective as we come up on our 1 year anniversary of returning to the U.S. It's hard to believe it's almost been a year. We'll hit that anniversary the first week of November. So much has happened. Had He told us ahead of time what was in store and given us the choice, it's probably not the choice we would have made. It's been a very challenging year but we can't deny that God is moving in and all around us. For that reason, we're thankful and realize we are so blessed. And we're excited for what's in store and trusting in Him for this next season.

     Down in Chihuahua, Pastor Jose and CC Roca Norte continue on with the work of reaching Chihuahua with the Gospel and making disciples of Jesus. It's been a challenging year of transition for them as well. Getting used to a new pastor is hard for any church. I think it was even more difficult because the transition happened so quickly and Pastor Jose and his family moved to Chihuahua from another state. But I have been so blessed by how the church has adjusted and how they've been able to keep their eyes on Jesus. I've been left in awe by Pastor Jose and his family and how they've handled the year of transition. Every time I talk to him--even when painful things happen, when the finances just aren't there, when things don't work out as he had hoped, when it could be hard to see the Lord's provision and faithfulness--he always seems to keep his eyes on Jesus. He's always positive and willing to sacrifice more for the sake of the Gospel and for the sake of the sheep God has entrusted him with. It's not just me that notices this, I've heard the same testimony about him from person after person. I'm sitting here tearing up as I type these words, because I'm so thankful that God provided CC Roca Norte with a pastor like Jose.

     If you have a couple minutes, please take some time to thank the Lord with me for all that He has done with Roca Norte and Pastor Jose. Please pray for him and for his family (his wife Keyla and his two sons Lemuel and Samuel). As I mentioned, it's been a difficult season for them and they could really use the prayer. Thanks so much and have a great week!

-Tim
Eph. 3:20-21

Praise Reports
-God has been answering prayer for Pastor Jose and his family and providing just enough at just the right time to sustain them.
-Pastor Jose has begun a church-planting training program with two of the leaders from the church (Mario & Luis who were both leaders when I was there).
-New people from the surrounding neighborhood where the church recently moved to have begun attending the church.
-The process for the U.S. Roca Norte Missions 501c3 non-profit are continuing forward.

Prayer Requests
-For God's financial provision for CC Roca Norte to be able to pay the rent consistently and pay Pastor Jose and his family so their basic needs are taken care of. Pastor Jose specifically asked for prayer that the church would be able to be self-sustained as soon as possible.
-For the church-planting program that they are going through. That God would raise up these men and their families to plant churches throughout Mexico.
-For the new bilingual service that CC Roca Norte will start later this month.
-For continued church unity of the Christian churches in Chihuahua. Pastor Jose has a burden to lead the charge of uniting churches in the city and has begun organizing meetings to do so.
-For traveling mercies, provision and safety for the Pastor's Conference that Jose and a couple others in the church will be attending Oct. 13-14 in Mexicali.
-For the Roca Norte Missions 501c3. That we would finalize the process as quickly as possible and be able to open a ministry bank account within the next month.
-For my mom's continued cancer treatment. The most recent scans found that the cancer had spread again over the summer. The spots are still relatively small but they are considering another surgery, this time to remove two spots from her lungs.

August Update - The Lord Is Answering Prayer and Continuing to Move!

Hello everyone,

    Hope you've had a good summer. God has been answering prayer in regard to CC Roca Norte and Roca Norte Missions and we are excited to share the details with you.

     We'll start in Chihuahua. You may remember from our last email that we were praying a lot about the building for the church. The owner had raised the rent significantly and Pastor Jose and the leaders weren't sure how the church was going to be able to afford it. Well, the first thing that God did was provide for almost half a year's rent through supporters of Roca Norte Missions! Thank you Jesus for that! And thank you to those of you who gave and to those of you who prayed. At around the same time, Pastor Jose happened to see a nearby building that was for rent and felt a nudge to call the number. He found out that it used to be a church, was bigger than the first building and was the same price as the original price of the first building (before the owner raised the rent). Even better, the owner of the second building is a Christian and was the pastor of the church that used to meet there. He was excited that another church was interested in renting and has really been willing to work with Pastor Jose and the leadership in different ways. Well, all that to say, that CC Roca Norte decided to move buildings over the last few weeks and July 23rd was their first service at the new building! (The picture above is some of the core people in the church celebrating after their first service in the new building). The money that the Lord provided allowed them to pay the deposit on the new building, do some minor renovations and still have some left over to help with rent over the upcoming months. The reasonable price for rent should be much more manageable for them over the long-term as well. God is so good and we are confident that He is at work leading CC Roca Norte! 

     I also want to invite you to praise the Lord with us for what He is doing with Roca Norte Mission here stateside. I also mentioned in the last email that we were raising funds to form Roca Norte Missions into a legal 501c3. An organization called StartChurch is helping us through the process from start to finish. This will allow us to do things in a more organized and above reproach manner--especially with finances. We will soon be able to open a bank account in the name of Roca Norte Missions. Well, God also answered our prayers with the 501c3 because He provided all the money necessary for the program and we are marching forward with the process! Over the past several weeks we've been praying a lot about the formation of the board for Roca Norte Missions. I'm so excited for the board He has been setting up and I can't wait to see how the Lord uses Roca Norte Missions moving forward. Thanks for your support and prayer with this as well!

-Tim
Eph. 3:20-21 

Praise Reports
-God provided and led the leadership of CC Roca Norte to a great building that they can meet at.
-God provided for the formation of the 501c3 for Roca Norte Missions and is clearly moving in that process as well.
-The Lord allowed Priscilla and the kids to spend the summer out in California with her family!

Prayer Requests
-That God would continue to guide and use CC Roca Norte to reach Chihuahuenses with the Gospel and make disciples of Jesus.
-For the trip that we want to take out to Chihuahua in September to visit the church and help with a wedding (for Mario, the worship leader at the church).
-For Pastor Jose, his wife Keyla and their boys--that He would continue to bless their family, provide for all their needs and help them to keep their eyes on Jesus.
-For vision, strategy and unity for the Roca Norte Missions board--that God would show us how to most glorify His name through our supporting role.
-For my mom Susan's cancer. The scans in June showed a small spot of cancer still remaining on her lung. The doctors decided to give her body the summer to recover from surgery and rest from chemo. In the upcoming weeks, they're going to do another scan to see if the cancer has grown and then decide on a plan from there.
-For God's continued guidance and favor for the business I'm creating, Refuge Insurance & Financial Solutions. Please pray that God opens doors to help many people and that He uses the business to provide for my family and help us get on our feet and situated. I'm also starting a new part-time job in the mornings, teaching high-school classes at a Christian school called FWC Academy. Pray for energy and wisdom for balancing the workload.
-That God would lead and provide for the perfect house for our family to be able to rent here in Pueblo.