Ruth and Oscar Vela
Ruth and Oscar prayed for a church where their family could truly belong. At Champion Forest, they found community, spiritual growth, and God’s faithfulness in every season, serving together and investing in future generations through NEXT.
Ruth and Oscar first came to Champion Forest through an invitation from a neighbor, but it was also the answer to a prayer. They had been asking God for a church where they could truly belong, not just attend on Sundays. They wanted a place where their family could grow, where their children would be shaped, and where faith would be lived out in real community. God answered that prayer.
From the very first day, they noticed something different. There was a place for every person, every age, every stage of life. Life Groups, ministries for kids, students, and adults. It was more than a service. It was a community. They quickly joined a Life Group, and the follow-up, phone calls, and shared prayer created a sense of belonging they had never experienced before.
One of the clearest confirmations that this was their church came through their children. Their kids wanted to be there every Sunday. They were welcomed by people who knew them, asked about their group, and walked alongside them. It was not anonymous. It was family.
As a family, they have grown through serving. The kids ministry has had a deep impact on their lives, even beginning with their oldest son, who was the first to get involved. Watching him serve encouraged them to find their own places to serve and grow. Oscar has also been deeply shaped through the men’s ministry, where he has found support, teaching, and community that have strengthened his faith.
They have seen God’s provision in very real ways. Oscar’s work has had seasons of uncertainty, but they have learned that when they stay busy with the Lord’s work, He takes care of their needs. The more they have served and given, the more they have seen God’s faithful hand sustaining their home.
For them, NEXT is an opportunity to be part of something bigger than their own generation. They are excited to imagine how future generations will be impacted, how the church will continue to reach more people, and how they can leave a legacy of faith. Their invitation is simple. If you are praying about getting more involved, do not hesitate. Be part of what God is doing.
Gustavo and Niviana
Gustavo once measured success by achievement, status, and financial goals, but still felt empty. After a simple invitation led him from the church parking lot into a service, his life began to change. In this story, Gustavo and Niviana share how surrendering to Christ brought peace, purpose, and a church family they now call home. Their journey is a testimony of transformation, community, and the joy of living generously as part of what God is doing through NEXT.
