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. 

June Update--REMINDER! Our Heavenly Father Loves Us and Will Provide for All Our Needs

Hello everyone,

     Time flies--can you believe it's already summer?! I was talking with Priscilla the other day when we realized that we've been in the U.S. for 7 months now. It's hard to believe. Thank you to all of you that have prayed for us and our transition off the mission field as we're getting on our feet and adjusting to new jobs and a new life back in the U.S.. To be honest, the transition has been difficult but we're glad to be with family and we know that the Lord is molding us through it all. I think of Paul's words in 2 Corinthians when he said, "For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory" (2 Cor. 4:17).

     I know that the Lord is also molding Pastor Jose, his family and those that make up the church in Chihuahua. God has been doing great things but it has been a difficult season for them as well. I talked to Pastor Jose today and the main thing on their minds right now involves paying the rent for the church building. I'm impressed with how he is resting in the Lord and trusting in His provision. He told me that he's ready to sell their personal car, if need be, to pay the church rent. Right now, however, they're just praying and waiting on the Lord to provide. To give you context, through God's amazing provision (and support from many of you!), the rent for the building was paid for the entirety of the last year. We were also able to renovate the building a couple years ago to create children's classrooms, provide good A/C and heating and make it a welcoming place in general. However, the contract runs out at the end of the month and Jose and the leaders aren't sure they're going to have enough money to pay for July's rent. The owners want to raise the rent significantly if they begin to pay on a monthly basis (instead of the entire year like we did before). It's hard for me because I know what a blessing the building has been for the church and how much hard work we've put into that building to make it functional. We know the building isn't actually the church, it's just a tool the church uses to reach the lost and make disciples. However, we've invested a lot of time, energy and money into the tool and it's been a huge blessing! :) For me, it's difficult seeing them struggle and wishing I could be there to help but feeling impotent to help from a distance. I'm clinging to prayer as my main method to help and I ask you to join me in that as well. If the Lord has given you the ability and lays it on your heart to help financially with this need, that would also be a huge blessing! The rent for the entire year is around $8,000 dollars. We're praying that we can raise at least $4,000 (6 months worth) by the end of the month. Please pray with us for God's provision and guidance!

     One thing that I've been working on over here on the U.S. side has been the formation of a 501c3 for Roca Norte Missions. We are working with an organization called Start Church that is helping us with the process. Having a 501c3 will allow us to open a bank account for the ministry and do things in a better and more efficient manner to honor the Lord. Please pray for this process and for the Lord's provision for the costs for this as well.

     The amount of money we need to raise for all of these things seems like a lot to me, but I know it's nothing for the Lord. As Psalm 50 says, God owns the cattle on a thousand hills and everything else on the earth. So we know this is nothing for Him. There's no reason to stress. We can trust in our loving Father who cares for us deeply and will provide for all our needs. You know....I really needed that reminder today. :) Maybe you did too. If so, I hope it blesses you as it has me and that we can both rest confidently in our great God. The Lord bless you and have a great day!     

-Tim
Eph. 3:20-21 

Praise Reports
-God has continued adding to CC Roca Norte and the flock is growing spiritually through consistent discipleship from Pastor Jose and the church leadership.
-The church a weekend mission trip up to the mountains in cartel country. The Lord protected them and blessed the ministry they did (click on the message below to see pictures of the trip).
-In a previous update, I mentioned a man that got caught up in drugs, became angry at the church and then poured gasoline on the church doors one night with the intention to burn down the building. Well, they found the man, talked to him, invited him to church and now he's been attending for the last month!
-We are beginning the process to create a 501c3 for Roca Norte Missions!
-My mom Susan had a successful surgery in April to remove her cancerous tumor.
-God takes care of us and provides for all of our needs according to His great wisdom--even if He often does things in ways we don't understand.

Prayer Requests
-The church has really been struggling financially. Pastor José got another job to help but we’re praying a lot for the Lord’s provision.
-For wisdom and provision in regards to the church building. The rent is paid up through June but they’ll need to start paying rent again in July and they don’t currently have the money for it. For the provision of at least $4000 by the end of the month.
-For the creation of the 501c3 for Roca Norte Missions and the costs associated with that.
-For my mom’s cancer and her upcoming surgery. They think a small spot of the cancer may have come back and grown but we aren't sure yet. Please pray that she would be cancer-free and that there would be no complications with reversing the ostomy surgery.
-For God’s continued provision and open doors for our family here in Colorado as I work two jobs and seek to get us situated with a house and the ability to travel back to Chihuahua often.


CLICK HERE TO SEE SOME PHOTOS OF CC ROCA NORTE'S RECENT MISSION TRIP!

(NOTE: The following day, this update to the update was also sent out.)

Hey again everyone,

Hope you're having a good day. There are a couple quick updates to the June update I sent out yesterday that I wanted to let you know about. If you weren't able to read that update yet, you can find it HERE.

#1) As you read, we are praying and seeking to raise support for CC Roca Norte to be able to pay its rent for the next year. We are also raising money to pay for the process of creating a 501c3 for Roca Norte Missions. I received word today from my friend Pastor Gary with Anchored International Relief that they are willing to receive tax-deductible donations for CC Roca Norte while we work through the process of setting up the 501c3. Thank you, Gary! 100% of what's given will be sent to support the work in Chihuahua. If the Lord lays it on your heart to help us raise these funds, you can visit our website at rocanortemissions.com, scroll down to the DONATE section and click the GIVE button. Thanks for your prayer and support!

#2) We just received word last night that my mom's scans came back showing more cancer on her lung. It's a small nodule, so the doctor is still considering moving forward with the surgery next week to reverse her ostomy. After that, she will likely start on chemo treatments again. Alternatively, they may decide to start chemo first and try again for the surgery after that. Thank you for praying with us for my mom--for her physical well-being, for encouragement and for peace that surpasses all understanding. I know many of you have prayed for my mom and I know she (and all of us) are very thankful for that. I appreciate each of you so much.

Have a blessed weekend.

-Tim

Eph. 3:20-21

March Update--Clinging to God's Word in the Middle of Intense Spiritual Warfare

Hello everyone,

     God continues moving through CC Roca Norte under Pastor Jose and his wife Keyla's leadership. Honestly, it's something that blesses me so much as the church planter and first pastor of the church. I hear story after story about how God is using them and it makes it obvious to everyone that God has called them to Chihuahua for such a time as this. Please keep praying with us that God blesses Pastor Jose and his family and that He uses them mightily for His glory.

     One of the most recent things that God did involved an Inductive Bible Study Conference that CC Roca Norte hosted. Pastor Dan Finfrock visited Chihuahua and led the conference. Members of the church attended the conference and people from other churches throughout the city also joined to learn about the Inductive Bible Study method. Many of the participants expressed their excitement about what they learned at the conference. 2 Timothy 2:15 encourages us to study to show ourselves approved by God as workers that rightly handle His Word. Properly studying and teaching God's Word is a vital skill for each Christian to learn. Misunderstanding, discouragement and even heresy can all come if a person doesn't take the time to properly understand the text of the Bible. Pastor Jose is very passionate about God's Word which is why he wanted one of his first events as pastor of CC Roca Norte to be this conference. Thanks to those of you that were praying for the conference, it seems clear that Lord was really glorified through it. 

     I want to end by emphasizing one of the prayer requests that you'll find below. Please pray for divine spiritual and physical protection for Pastor Jose, his wife Keyla, their two sons Lemuel and Daniel--and for everyone at CC Roca Norte. As Jose and I have talked consistently over the last few months, he's mentioned a few different scary situations that have occurred. A couple months ago, Jose felt compelled by the Lord to go on a late-night walk to pray for Chihuahua and the marriage conference they were planning. As he walked, he was confronted by a car of men and threatened at gunpoint. Thankfully, as he explained who he was, what he was doing and the fact that he had nothing of value on him, they let him go. Then, a couple weeks ago, everyone in the church received a scare when they showed up for Sunday morning service and the building had a strong scent of gasoline. They reviewed cameras from the plaza and discovered what had happened. To make a long story short, there's a man that previously attended the church a couple years ago. He started out really seeking the Lord but then fell back into drugs and a life of deception. He subsequently lost his family, stopped attending the church and spiraled to a very dark place. Even though we tried to help him in many ways, he blamed the church (and especially me as the pastor) for what happened. Anyway, the night before the service a couple weeks ago, this man had come to the church at night and poured gasoline on the doors and windows (presumably with the intention to light the building on fire that night or at some point in the future). Thankfully, the Lord protected the church and everyone is ok. Anyway, I share those two specific stories to encourage you to continue praying for Pastor Jose, his family and the CC Roca Norte family. There is lots of spiritual warfare but we know God is in control and is the Good Shepherd that protects His sheep. Thank you and God bless you!

-Tim
Eph. 3:20-21 

Praise Reports
- The marriage conference was a great success! The couples were really ministered to and it opened doors for Pastor Jose and Keyla to be able to counsel various couples in the following weeks.
- The Inductive Bible Study Conference also went really well and Pastor Dan is already talking about wanting to return in the fall to offer more classes.
- The Lord has been protecting Pastor Jose and his family, even in the midst of intense spiritual warfare.
- The Lord has been blessing the new Women's Coffee & Study as well as the new Youth Ministry meeting.

Prayer Requests
-For the continued protection and safety of Pastor Jose, his family and the church.
-For a mission trip to the mountains of the neighboring state of Durango that CC Roca Norte has planned for April. For their safety (as it is right in the middle of cartel country) and also for the Lord's provision and His guidance throughout the trip.
-For the men involved in the men's ministry of the church as they are going to begin leading a Bible study at a new Drug Rehab Center in the city.
-That CC Roca Norte would continue reaching the lost with the Gospel and making disciples of Jesus.
-For continued financial provision for the church and for Pastor Jose and his family.
-For wisdom and the Lord's guidance on the logistics of best way to receive US financial support for the ministry and send that support to the church.
-Continued prayer for Tim's mom (Susan). She has a scheduled surgery for mid-April to remove the cancerous tumor. That the Lord would heal her and that she would soon be cancer-free.

January Update--Helping Hurting Marriages in the Name of Jesus

Hello everyone,

     Well, the transition from Ives Missions to Roca Norte Missions is complete. (However, this is still Tim typing haha). With my new role as RN Missions U.S. Liaison, I will keep in consistent communication with Pastor Jose/Roca Norte leadership, serve on the RN board, maintain communication with supporters and maintain financial accountability on the U.S. side. I'm blessed to be able to still serve the Lord in this way. For those of you that have walked with my family throughout all these years, we are so thankful and we hope that you'll continue to walk with us into this new season. If you haven't seen our new Roca Norte Missions Support Presentation, I encourage you to check it out on our website HERE (it includes details of the transition, a short video from Pastor Jose and details about communication and finances moving forward).

     In each email update, I will share an encouragement, major prayer request and/or testimony involving Roca Norte that I have gathered from my conversations with Pastor Jose and the Roca Norte leaders. I also hope, Lord willing, to visit Chihuahua often. So I will be able to share details and photos from those trips as well.

     The key prayer point that we want to emphasize in this email involves broken marriages. You probably didn't know that Chihuahua has the highest divorce rate in all of Mexico. Priscilla and I saw it during our time there--broken marriage after broken marriage. The saddest thing is that a HUGE majority of the city of almost a million people have no clue that Jesus is alive and active today. They don't realize that He yearns to heal and restore their marriages. Roca Norte has been strategically placed by the Lord in the northern part of the city, right in the middle of countless neighborhoods consisting of thousands upon thousands of families--many of which are hurting and losing hope. At best, some of them have heard of Jesus but believe He only offers a checklist of dos and don'ts to try and be a better person. Very few have the slightest understanding that Jesus is alive today and wants to give them His resurrection power to see transformation in their marriage and their family (Eph. 3:16-17). For this reason, Roca Norte will be hosting a marriage conference on February 10th-11th. Pastor Jose has a heavy burden on his heart for the marriages in Chihuahua and is excited for what God is going to do through the conference. Please pray for the event--that God would move powerfully, that marriages would be healed and restored and that people would be saved.

     Thanks again for your continued prayer, encouragement and support!

-Tim, Pastor Jose and the Roca Norte leadership
Eph. 3:20-21

Praise Reports
- The Romero family (Pastor Jose, his wife Keyla and their two boys Lemuel and Daniel) have been getting accustomed to Chihuahua and integrating well with the church!
- God is bringing new people to the church and 7 people have given their lives to Jesus in just the last few weeks!
- New ministries in the church such as a Youth Ministry and Women's Coffee & Bible Study have been going really well!
- A few churches and individuals have decided to come behind Roca Norte Missions and support the ministry through prayer and financial giving!
- Tim's grandma Bonnie is cancer-free and doing much better! His grandma Marty is also doing much better physically!
- God has provided jobs for Tim to support his family financially as they transition into this new season!

Prayer Requests
- For the Roca Norte Marriage Conference that will take place February 10th-11th.
- That God would continue to use Roca Norte to reach the lost in Chihuahua with the Gospel and make disciples of Jesus.
- For the Romero family, that God would protect them, provide for them, guide them and use them mightily for His glory.
- For more churches and individuals to join with Roca Norte Missions by supporting through prayer and financial giving.
- For the Inductive Bible Study Conference that Roca Norte has planned for March.
- For Tim's mom, Susan, that God would continue to touch her body and give her perfect peace in the midst of her chemo treatments and doctor appointments.
- For Priscilla's mom, Aleyda, that God would continue to heal her physically and spiritually. That she would be able to walk again soon and be guided by the Lord for this next stage of life.
- That God would bless the Ives family with work and provision so that Priscilla and the kids can visit California soon and to advance the transition back to the States.

Vision Update (The Transition)

     Looking back on 2022, we still can’t believe what God had in mind. There was so much change that He was preparing us for, and we had no clue what was coming. Change can be hard and God often leads us down paths we might not choose for ourselves. Yet, He remains good and we have no where else to turn but His firm promises that never change. “‘For My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways,’ says the Lord. ‘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). If you check out our update from just this past summer (HERE), you’ll see that in spite of difficulties we were excited to move forward serving Jesus in Chihuahua. We definitely couldn’t imagine leaving Mexico before the year ended. But God was so faithful in how He did things and in His provision. Below you’ll find photos, videos and more telling the story of how things unfolded and where God is leading us moving forward. Thanks for walking with us and praying with us that Jesus will be glorified in Chihuahua!

-Tim

(Make sure to turn ON closed captioning!)