A Legacy of Ministry: From One Man’s Faithfulness to a Church on Mission

For more than twenty-five years, Gary has walked faithfully from village to village, door to door, person to person—bringing not only the message of Christ, but genuine care for the everyday needs of the people.

Gary's ministry has never been about passing through quickly or checking a box. Instead, Gary has made it his mission to know the people, understand their struggles, and walk with them through life’s challenges.

Whether it’s helping a family through a health crisis, encouraging a single mother, or simply sitting and listening to a neighbor in distress, Gary’s compassion has built lasting trust. His willingness to be present in both spiritual and practical ways has opened hearts to the Gospel in a powerful and lasting way.

One touching moment this year was when Gary visited an elderly villager he has known since the beginning—someone who recently had a partial foot amputation. Gary wasn’t just there to pray; he was there to offer comfort, encouragement, and a reminder that she is seen and loved.

Now, that same heart of service is growing.

Pastor Nelson Osorto has picked up the baton. Following Gary’s example, he has committed himself to the same kind of relational ministry—being available, approachable, and deeply engaged with the needs of the community. More than that, he is training his congregation to step into this calling, encouraging them to be the hands and feet of Jesus in their own neighborhoods.

Pastor Nelson recently shared a moving reminder of the urgency behind this mission. “Yesterday morning, we visited and prayed with a man in the hospital. He passed away the very next day,” he said. “Praise God, he made his decision and came to Jesus. The family asked us to hold a service last night, and I also preached at the cemetery this afternoon.” These moments are powerful reminders that we never know when our visit may be someone’s last opportunity to hear about Christ.

Gary experienced something similar—not long ago, he visited a woman in a neighboring village. The very next day, she passed away. It reinforced a sobering truth: we must take advantage of every opportunity to share Jesus.

What began as one man’s faithful outreach has become a multiplying movement of compassionate ministry—meeting needs, changing lives, and drawing hearts closer to Christ.