October 2026 Ministry Update
Dear Friends, Family, and Ministry Supporters,
After much prayer, reflection, and discussion, we would like to share with you a significant decision regarding the future of the ministry.
After many years of serving through the leadership of the organization, we believe the time has come for us to begin a transition toward retirement and a restructuring of our roles within the nonprofit. This is not a decision we have made lightly. We are deeply grateful for the opportunity God has given us to serve, to build homes, to work alongside so many wonderful people, and to be part of a ministry that has made a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
Over the past three years, we have made a sincere and ongoing effort to identify and find someone who could take over the house-building aspect of the ministry. Unfortunately, despite those efforts, we have not been successful in finding the right person to assume that responsibility and carry it forward.
At the same time, we have had to honestly acknowledge our own limitations. As the years have passed, age and physical ability have become significant factors in our ability to continue the demanding hands-on work required to build houses. The physical nature of construction has become increasingly difficult for us, and we recognize that we can no longer continue to carry that responsibility in the same way we have in the past.
This realization has led us to believe that the responsible and appropriate course is not simply to continue trying to find someone to replace us, but to prayerfully consider whether the structure and focus of the ministry itself should change.
At the same time, we do not believe this is an ending—it is a change in how we serve.
Our desire is to place greater focus on the student aspect of the ministry. We have seen firsthand the tremendous potential of investing in students, encouraging their education, developing their character, and helping them discover their God-given purpose. We believe this area of the ministry represents an important opportunity for the future, and we would like to dedicate more of our time, energy, and experience toward supporting and developing it.
Scripture reminds us that seasons change and that God often calls us to adapt to what He is doing:
“For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven.” — Ecclesiastes 3:1
We believe we are entering a new season—one that requires us to consider not only what we have done in the past, but how we can best serve the ministry and its mission in the years ahead.
Our hope is to work closely with the Board to develop a thoughtful restructuring plan that provides continuity for the organization, strengthens its leadership, and positions the ministry for continued growth. We want this transition to be intentional and orderly, with careful consideration given to responsibilities, leadership, finances, relationships, and the ongoing needs of the students and the communities we serve.
While we are stepping back from the physical demands of construction and moving toward retirement, our hearts remain very much invested in the mission. We would welcome the opportunity to continue serving in ways that make use of our experience, relationships, and passion for the students without the physical demands of building houses.
We believe that recognizing our limitations is not a failure, but rather an opportunity to allow God to lead the ministry into its next season. After three years of searching for someone to take over the construction responsibilities, we believe it is time to consider a different path—one that is sustainable, faithful to the mission, and allows us to continue contributing where we can be most effective.
We are thankful for each of you and for the trust, encouragement, and partnership you have given us throughout the years. We believe God has been faithful in every season of this ministry, and we trust that He will continue to guide us as we enter this next one.
We look forward to discussing this with the Board, seeking God's wisdom together, and working toward a transition that honors the ministry's past while preparing it for a strong and fruitful future.
With all that said, this is how it will look as we move forward. Church for the City in Yuma AZ, as well as missionary Alexis Espinoza and family, will be taking over the construction part of the ministry in the very near future. Angelica, Kelly, Moses, and I will still be working with the student ministry. Kelly and I will still be around to help with any needs of the Mexican ministries, that being Rueben and Cristina's church, Jacobs Well feeding center, and Pastor Miguel.
Kelly and I look forward to slowing down and enjoying the years we have left, and each other.
Change is good and we feel this was the route God was leading us for the future.
If you have any questions, please contact us.
With gratitude and faith,