CCEA Missions In Costa Rica Schools of Discipleship and Ministry...Pura Vida En Jesus!

STUDENT TESTIMONIES

2011-11-20T15:31:00.000-08:00

John Paul Grant- ( Worship leader, and video production director at La Montana Christian Camp)

"The School for me is a great challenge, in a good way, especially since I have been a Christian for many years. Never have I gone so deep in studying God's word.In the way that the school presents the Bible and it's richness of knowledge and understanding God in such a way, has enriched my life personally and the ministry where I serve. I am so pleased with God for the opportunity He has given me to grow in Him through the school. Like it says in Ephesians 4:13-15;
'Till we all come to the unity of faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ; that we should no longer be children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of deceitful plotting, but speaking the truth in love, may we grow up in all things into Him who is the head-Christ.'

This is the desire of my heart, and because of the school it is being developed in my life. Every day I pray for this school, that many more would take advantage of this great opportunity to grow in Him!"

Edward Ramirez Arce-( Father, High School Counselor)

"The school of Discipleship& Ministry has played a really important part in my spiritual growth. It has awakened a necessity to learn more and more about God and His revelations in the scriptures. Also, the school has equipped me to study God's word with carefulness and wisdom. Now that I have the tools and practice to do so, I do not need to be deceived by false doctrines,or heresies. I can now talk and share my faith, with the help of the Holy Spirit, in a clearer and biblical standpoint, straight from God's word. Not my ideas, or my interpretation but what the context says. The most important way these classes have affected me, is the application in my daily life."

"All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work." 2 Timothy 16-17

Every Season From God Has A Purpose

2011-10-26T14:41:00.000-07:00

Jonathan lower right hand corner ( blue sweatshirt)

Victor & Eduardo Evangelism class ( role playing evangelizing)

To everything there is a season, A time for every purpose under heaven.Ecclesiastes 3:1 ( NKJV)

As Christians we have the privilege to be children of God.To rest in His divine seasons that He alone has orchestrated for us. Although we do not always get to see the reason for the seasons that we are in, and many questions as to why?, when Lord?, How?, It doesn't make sense.We can for sure know that our God who made the heavens and the earth, has a purpose under heaven.And that God's sovereignty, & faithfulness shine through the seasons in our lives. In due time we canlook back and say, " now I know why".

One of our prayer request since we arrived in Costa Rica two and half years ago, has been that God would raise up teachers in the school. So that they can take back the teachings and begin a satellite school in their own churches. Praise God, it is His time! ( and thank you for our prayer warriors!)Finishing the two year course their is two men, named Eduardo, and Jonathan. Victor and I had been praying for these two, as we felt God put them on our hearts. At the end of the two year program which was the last week of July they individually came to Victor and told them they felt called to teach the program in their church. How great is our God to see His hand upon these men call them and use their gifts of teaching. As August approached the program started again from the beginning with 35 new students and 20 who will be graduating in December 2011. Victor opened another night for teaching at Eduardo and Jonathan's church on Thursday evenings.They both are taking turns teaching Hermeneutics, Victor teaches the other class Theology and is overseeing them teach. It is amazing to see them use their gifts and when they teach always a little bit of Victor comes out. (it is funny, you know they were discipled by him)

Glory to our Lord, for his continue strength, grace & faithfulness and fruits in the lives of many in Costa Rica. As this new season begins with new students, teachers being raised up, we can look with confidence and know that our God is working behind the scenes in ways we do not know.It was exciting to see the students from the last two years persevere and finish with dilligence. Sad, yes, as we will not get to see them weekly, God knitted our hearts together. However we still meet with many and they continue strong in the Lord serving Him. May God bless you all! your many prayers, support, Thank you for walking with us through these seasons in Costa Rica and being tools in God's sovereign plans. In Jesus's love, Victor & Nichol Mejia

New Life and Sing a new song

2011-07-08T15:05:00.000-07:00

Pizzeria Del Norte infront of our house, Danny & Jose New life in Jesus

Jose, day after he received Jesus

Danny, day after he received Jesus,

“Most assuredly, I say to you, he who hears My word and believes in Him who sent Me has everlasting life, and shall not come into judgment, but has passed from death into life.” (John 5:24)
Hello to all!
This semester at the School of Discipleship & Ministry the students are being taught Theology 3 Sin; Salvation and Evangelism. One of the tools in the evangelism class is Ray Comfort‘s, where he uses the 10 commandments when presenting the gospel. Victor went in front of our house where there is a pizza place and lots of young guys hang out there. After classes occasionally he will go and talk to the youth. He wanted to interview any who were willing and video tape them to show the class the way Ray Comfort uses the 10 commandments when witnessing. So he headed out and two young men volunteered.
That evening as the smell of pizza roamed through the streets and into our windows, we had not idea that soon the smell of pizza was going to fade away and angels in heaven would be rejoicing over the souls of these two young men who had decided to give their lives to Christ! I was at home praying while Victor had gone out to share the gospel with Danny, & Jose. At the time I looked out the window and could not see Victor around. I thought how strange, wonder where he went, but God is good the Holy Spirit moved in my heart to keep praying even if I could not see from the window. He reminded me how so much of our prayers our in faith, knowing that God is working and many times we have answered prayers instantly or in days, years, but ultimately God has the time in control. Well that evening God’s spirit moved in the hearts of these two young boys and they have passed from death into life.
The video was presented to the class and they were refreshed and stirred up to go out and evangelize. Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.” (Acts 4:12)

Praise the LORD! Sing to the LORD a new song, And His praise in the assembly of saints. (Psalm 149)

Dominique Castillo stepped out in faith , she heard of a need for some worship teaching that would bless the church here at the Clavary Chapel we attend in Costa Rica. In December when we were on a furlough Victor shared the need and asked her to pray about coming. God faithfully moved in her heart ,provided for her to come and since the day she stepped off the plane has been a blessing to us and those whom come in contact with her. After the first meeting with those who were going to be on the worship team was a huge success!! God brought out those who were hiding their talents. She has been working hard putting music together, recording songs to give to each member of the worship team, translating songs. She has a gift and is using it for the Lord! Her testimony of being a young lady and walking uprightly before the Lord in godliness is encouraging many woman and young woman in the church! Words can not express the refreshment and blessing of having her stay here with us for this time. Serving our LORD, Victor & Nichol Mejia

Dominique first sunday in Costa Rica, leading worship

Welcome to Costa Rica! Arriving to airport

THE REAL SUPERHERO

2011-07-08T14:33:00.000-07:00

Fabian, student of School of Ministry and Director for Reblealto Christian Organization

Victor giving message at the end of the Drama

Children anxiously waiting for it to start

Behind the scenes, students preparing for the drama

THE REAL SUPERHERO (Ps 68:5) A father of the fatherless and a champion of widows is God in His holy dwelling.

One can never imagine the plans God has prepared. The people He will place in our lives and doors He will open… It is a character transformation and heart surgery God is doing in our lives personally and in the lives of the students form the School of Discipleship & Ministry. Mainly learning how important people are to Jesus, how He so cares and loves! With God’s truth and word being applied in our hearts, minds, and action’s.
We were invited with a group of the students to participate in a drama that was going to be presented to a group of children who come from broken homes, families on drugs, alcohol, & abuse. Camp Reablealto a Christian organization working with the children and bringing them Jesus love.
It was an evening where these children were exposed to the real Superhero, Jesus. Many looking for someone to look up to, to follow and imitate, not having father figures. But how wonderful when they can look up to Jesus, a father to the broken hearted, to the fatherless!
The play was a 45 minute production about superheroes. A young boy had stolen from a supermarket and he tries to find some help to get rid of his guilt and shame, he looks towards all the superheroes he knows, batman, Robin and others. But soon to find out known of them can help him. Until he has an encounter with Jesus, their he is presented with the gospel of Jesus as the only superhero!
We could only watch in awe of God’s work in the students’ lives as they continue to serve Him, and not only learn theology and keep it in their notepads or heads but seeing it being lived out and applied. Please keep praying for the work in Costa Rica.
In God’s Grace, Victor & Nichol Mejia

SHINE FOR JESUS

2011-05-09T14:36:00.000-07:00

Easter Break we were priveleged to have a High School group from Calvary Chapel Downey.For some this was there first time out of the country experiencing a cross culture mission. And for some this is the beginning where God has stirred in their hearts to go back to their homes and realize they have a whole mission field before their own eyes lost without Jesus.

They came to Costa Rica not knowing what to expect or what God was going to do.But they knew that God the God of impossibles the God who provided for them to come and helped them learn how to face paint and make balloons was going to do amazing things.

God wants a available heart one that is willing to be used by him. How great it is that He has put in our hearts His love and compassion for others. In our selfish world where everything points to put ourselves first... Love, How God the creator of the world the Kings of Kings who holds our very heart beat in His hands and knows our everydays, set the perfect example of living for others, serving others and reaching the brokenhearted. We went to Guarari, a poor area with many abused children, some of their parents on drugs.

Downey High School group jumped right in the singing & dancing to God with the children of Guarari.Not knowing the lyrics in spanish or the dance steps, they did not let that intmidate them, but learned the moves fast and brought smiles to the faces of the children.

A smile, a hug, an ice-cream cone, telling a child that Jesus loves them, are precious moments where God speaks to the hearts and shows us the simplicity of reaching out and letting Jesus Shine!! When we are given opportunities to reach out to others , It then when God is reaching into our own lives and changing us."Yet it shall not be so among you; but whoever desires to become great among you, let him be your servant. And whoever desires to be first among you, let him be your slave- just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many."( Matthew 20:26-28)

Equipped By The Love of God! Through one family in Jesus Christ

2011-05-09T10:07:00.000-07:00

Roblealto Brings God's love & Hope to the brokenhearted
Fabian & Carrie

(Luke 4:18) The Spirit of the Lord is upon me because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised,
Roblealto founded in 1932, a Child Care Associtation is a Christian, non-profit organization in Costa Rica working for the welfare of high-risk children.
For nearly 80 years, thousands of children have received love and attention through health care, nutrition, education, Christian teaching and multidisciplinary services. Each day the committed staff share God's love with the children. Lives are transformed through Roblealto's holistic approach to family rehabilitation centered on lives changed by Jesus.
Two of our students from School of Ministry & Discipleship are Directors for Roblealto one Costan Rican, Fabian, and a missionary from Arizona, Carrie. They have been attending the classes since Feburary and have testified how God has enabled them through these classes to better be equipped when counseling and working with the children and families and staff of Reablealto.Carrie said," I have been in Costa Rica for two years and am so thankful to God for these classes that are enriching my walk with Him and my staff at Reablealto."
We were invited by Fabian & Carrie to teach at there downtown offices for a series they were doing for the staff on" Walking with Integrity" It is always a praise, when after people can say thank you for teaching God's word and not distorting the truth.
We have been encouraged to see God's faithfulness and provision for this organization which was started years ago by two missionaries from Europe.

Ministerio Sela Calvary Chapel Heredia
Children's Ministry

Pastor Jose

(Eph 4:4-6) There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope at your calling; one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is above all and through all and in all.
Victor & I do miss our home church CCEA!! however,through the process of moving to Costa Rica we have been so blessed by Pastor Jose and his family to see their perseverance, and obedience to their call to Costa Rica to church plant Calvary Chapel.(Missionaries from Chile)We have integrated in the church over these last two years, Victor serving as a elder and I overseeing the Children's Ministry.
Before we arrived to Costa Rica the desire to find a good church and sound word,was always a concern! Thank God he had it all planned out! we did not have to worry. The body of Christ here in Costa Rica have been a overflowing of God's love to us, which make it that much easier when we get homesick.
Victor got to present the first baby dedication at the church, baby sahid.(his brother's baby)The Lord annointed Victor with a beautiful message, ( almost made me want a baby)Pastor Jose was moved as well and said," I believe we should make Victor the official baby dedicator" we all laughed. We have a great God who is everywhere, no matter where He puts us if we open our hearts, and eyes to see, putting aside ourselves, we will see Him in many ways.God's handprints are everywhere!!! Thank you CCEA,family friends, for being handprints of God's love,care & provision as we serve in Costa Rica, the one who is worthy of all glory and praise, Jesus.
In God's love, Victor & Nichol Mejia

WE HAVE A BIG GOD!

2011-03-08T12:45:00.000-08:00

Oscar, Now Going to the School Of Discipleship & Ministry:

Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven. ( Matt.5:16)

Going to the gym is not a necessity but God has been good to allow us to be able to go and get some exercise. Victor & I have decided that not only to go for exercise but look for opportunities to share Jesus. I do not write this to boast about us, but to boast in our savior Jesus!! A year ago we met a young gentlemen name Oscar. Oscar would observe us at the gym and mostly Victor as he observed the difference between his behavior than the other men. He asked Victor why he did not comment on other woman at the gym like the other guys. This opened a door for Victor to share about God, and why we were in Costa Rica. Turns out Oscar was raised in a Christian home, received the Lord when he was 4 yrs. Old. After a year of praying and Victor being faithful to share the Lord with Oscar, three months ago Oscar said, “I am going to go to the school of discipleship” He has faithfully been attending, and on fire for the Lord. He had not gone to a church for 15 yrs. And now is fellowshipping at Pastor Rudy’s church, and witnessing at the gym to others. He now tells us, “Hey we have to tell all the people at the gym aboutJesus!” Praise God for His light that shines in the darkness. May He be glorified.

God Wants To Do The Impossible!
Dear family in Christ, as we watch our Lord at work, humbled by His grace that allows us to be a part of eternal treasures. We are excited for His vision that has captured our hearts and pray that also, you will join us in prayer to catch the vision and as we wait on 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. (Eph.3:20-21)

It has been two years now that we have been in Costa Rica, through these years God is moving mightly.As we all know we have a big God who is in the business of doing big things. He breathed life into Adam, parted the Red Sea, and heals the sick, opens the eyes of the blind. Yet when He whispers to our hearts His plan that may seem impossible, we can rest in that with God nothing is impossible!! Are you waiting to hear the vision? Well the vision has always been to disciple the body of Christ in Costa Rica with sound doctrine, School of Discipleship and Ministry. The last couple of years God has continued to bring many to the school. It has been working through satellite locations, where we go to their churches to offer the courses. However, while at the mission conference in Murrieta while visiting in Jan. God began to put in our hearts a need for a building for the school. Where we could offer more classes, day & evening, and people from all over Central America could come to train for 4 to 6 months, go back to their home churches. We never thought about this or wanted anything like this, but our God wants to do a bigger thing! He has given us His word about how we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them. ( Eph.2:10)
We want to obey God and follow His lead, and be sensitive to His guidance; God has always spoken to us from the verse in Rev.3:8 “I know your works. See I have set before you an open door, and no one can shut it; for you have a little strength, have kept my word, and have not denied my name. Please help us to pray for what God desires to do for He knows best. May His will be done on earth as it is in heaven.

Victor preaching at Calvary Chapel,Comunidad Cristiana

We are so thankful to our Lord for the other missionaries here in Costa Rica sent out from other Calvary Chapels.God sees the whole picture, and we are so blessed that so a time like this many others would be here in Costa Rica serving our Lord.
Are dear friends Denise & Geiner are sent out from Skip Heitzig's church in Alborquerque, New Mexico. They live about 10 min. from us.They are church planting a Calvary Chapel in downtown San Jose.
Two weeks ago they had to leave for emergency due to Denise's Dad who had a heart attack.(Please keep them in prayer) Geiner asked Victor if he could help with the spanish service.It has been a privelege and honor to come alongside and serve the Lord with them.God is doing a amazing work there! Wow!!... we have a great big God, who everyday is moving in mighty ways all over the world. Here we are because of the love of Jesus on the cross, that has transformed our lives, able to share in what God wants to do.It is quite an adventure!! To the praise & glory of our Lord Jesus Christ!

..."but the greatest of these is LOVE..." 1Cor.13:13

2011-02-08T12:30:00.000-08:00

It best said by the apostle Paul to have the best gift of all is the gift of love.Yet the example of the greatest of love is, Jesus our savior who died on the cross for my sins and yours. So if what we do is done without love it is meaningless.Love is the key.If we miss that,everything else we do is a waste of time and effort.In the book of John he says,"He who does not love does not know God, for God is love"(1 John 4:8)And so it is that by knowing God, and Jesus as our everything and experiencing His love it is then, God who compels our hearts and moves us with love.When Jesus is talking to his disciples about the world knowing them by their love, is so true! We for the last two years while being in Costa Rica have been touched & moved by each one of you who support the mission here in Costa Rica. Testifying to the many people praying, and sending us emails of encouragements and in difficult times trusting in God as they give to His work here.
As we went on a furlough back to California to visit,family,friends,and our home church for one month.It was as if we had never left.Many smiling faces and hugs that greeted us!Jesus showered upon us his love, in tangible ways, in action!We can not thank you enough for being Jesus hands and feet, and mouthpiece of His love!!!
As we entered the church on sunday morning, the greeter at the door grabbed Victor by the cheeks, with such gentleness and love he put his two hands on Victor's face and looked straight at him in the eyes and said," You do not know me, but for two years we have been praying for you and your wife" Victor, my mom & I walked away and we began to cry, we were so touched by God's love. We do not have to know one another personally, just know the one who has all the love... God! Let us desire the greatest of all God's love.

MONDAY NIGHTS CLASSES: This new semester we have 55 who have signed up, many of the students will be graduating finishing the two year program in July. We then will start again the courses from the start and there are twelve students who came in the middle of the course and want to finish the whole proram.So in December 2011, we will have one big graduation for all the students.They continue with hunger for God's word & living it out.

CALVARY CHAPEL EAST ANAHEIM YOUTH GROUP:While we were visiting our home church we had the privelege to share with the youth group.A group will be coming in July, and we are so excited and can not wait to see the amazing things God is going to do in and through the group.

CALVARY CHAPEL WORLD CONFERENCE MISSIONS MURRIETA:Every year their is a missions conference held at Murrieta Hot Springs. Here their are missionaries from all over the world.It is always refreshing and encouraging time.This year the theme whas "Let the nations be glad" that we might be glad as we go out to where God has called us, and the joy and love of Jesus would move to those around us.Every time we sat with people they were either praying about coming to Costa Rica, or in Costa Rica in missions.We also met many who are as well doing Bible schools. God gave us some new vision we prayfully wait on Him for what he will do in His time.Also Victor spoke with many teachers who he had from the School of Ministry & Disciplesip in Costa Mesa and they are willing to come to Costa Rica and be guest teachers for a week or two at the school.

OUR HOME CHURCH WELCOME HOME LUNCHEON:As the body of Christ gathered together, and again God's love transmitted through actions.

Salvation so sweet, grace so amazing, & workmanship of Jesus Christ.

2010-10-14T13:54:00.000-07:00

YOUTH GROUP:

"VIGIA 360" What does this mean? The tower of lost souls, in all areas. About six months ago two young men from the School of Disc. & Ministry, Antoino & Alonso, told us that God was calling them to start a youth group at their church. God has been faithful to keep it going and once a month they meet at our home for the evening. A night filled with laughter, testimonies,encouragement, and teaching from the word. These young vibrant, passionate & on fire for God, put a name for the ministry. "Tower of lost souls, in all areas." They want to be young men & woman, whom are on watch and alert for those without Jesus in their lives. And being able to rightly divide the word of God and watch Him do mighty things.

YOUTH WITH A MISSION:

We had the opportunity to teach again at YWAM. God put lots of favor last time as the students recommended to bring Victor to teach again.This time was four students from Panama, Guatemala, Canada, & Costa Rica.It is always a blessing to see when God opens the eyes and minds of people to rightly know His word.After the courses were done they were all excited to know the truths about the person of the Holy Spirit.For us it is always encouraging when we can meet new youth, and teach God's truths where we never thougth we would.

MEAT FACTORY:

We are seeing God continue to move here. There are two men who did not go to the studies who are now going.It is great to see many of them growing in God and now one of them is attending wed. night classes at the School of Discipleship.

We have such a wonderful salavation in Jesus!!the reason of hope and life eternal. His grace that pours upon us, and being able to be used by Him.We thought the School of Ministry & Disicipleship was going to be in one spot. But God has allowed us to take His word to many places and ministries here we did not know of.May God bless you and show you marvelous things through Him, may your hearts be ever fixed on the one who can change lives, and forgive! Jesus. In His love, Victor & Nichol

I REJOICE AT YOUR WORD AS ONE WHO FINDS GREAT TREASURE.Ps.119:162 Aug. Update 2010

2010-10-12T12:59:00.000-07:00

God is pouring out fruit in the lives of the students and continually changing lives through the Word. Here are three students who have shared what God is doing in their lives.

Carolina Robles Montero:
" These courses at the School of Ministry & Discipleship helped me understand that I do not have to be perfect or know a lot about the Bible to learn more about God.I believed that because I fail, there was no way I could go to a Bible class that only leaders of the church and pastors could. I now know that any christian with a desire, hunger, and thirst to grow in their walk, can come and God treats everyone the same;there are no favorites. The lie of satan cannot stop me now from learning about my God, I can come just as I am. Also, I have learned that God speaks to me in many ways. Through areas in my life that seem so simple or details that I have overlooked are important to God.So much so that He wants me to put the word to practice and change my life. Through these classes I am learning the steps on how to act as a christian, what to do in specific situations, & how to pass through difficult moments has been a vital part in my walk. I see now how God is transforming every part of my life, with so much love, like a gentlemen and He speaks to me like a friend."
(Carolina is a single,hard working young mom. She has a 2yr. old daughter named Luna and has been attending for 6 months.)

Monica Urena Jimenez:
"Thank God for this ministry and for these classes which have helped me grow spiritually. I have been able to understand my relationship with God, who He is and what He has done for me. Also these classes have enabled me to have better relationships with other people in my life. They have been a great encouragement for me to follow God, serve Him, and to teach others what I am learning."
( Monica has been attending for 8 months. She and her younger brother are the only christians in their family, but now her mom is coming to the classes as well.)

Daniel Torres M.
"I give much thanks to my God for the miracle of the School of Ministry & Discipleship. Every time I felt like there was no meaning in my life,the light of God's word has illuminated my path and given me strength to follow the way of Christ. The classes have helped me grow in areas in my life such as how to walk daily with Jesus, how to handle my daily battles, afflictions, and to persevere in Jesus"
( Daniel has been attending for 8 months. Serves in his church in the mission ministry)
We thank God for the wonderful work He is doing and for you, our supporters in prayer, finances, and encouragements. May God bless you with His amazing grace, love and peace. Blessings, Victor & Nichol

Summer Mission Team July 15th-25th OUR GOD IS A GREAT BIG GOD!!

2010-08-21T13:32:00.000-07:00

So it began on July 15th the excitement and rush of getting everything ready for the arrival of 34 mission team members coming to Cost Rica to serve the people and share about Jesus. Along with our home church on their way , my mom arrived two hours before. Not having seen her in a year and half all kinds of emotions ran through my heart. Victor & I had waited for this moment and it was here!! The Lord brought to my mind about His coming as we anxiously waited for my mom and our home church summer mission team. All I kept thinking was… This is how God wants us to be, ready & excited and looking forward for that glorious day that we will see Him face to face. Happiness flooded our hearts as we saw my mom and the team walking through the airport. After long hours of traveling the team was ready and happy to be in Costa Rica with hearts of service and humility they put their hands , feet and voices to the use of our God so that He could show His love to those we would come in contact with. We started at J-Holy ( The drama ministry every sat. for the public) If some do not know this is where Victor & I met and got married at 7 yrs. Ago.) Painting, sanding, and laughing, getting to know some youth from the J-Holy, they painted it in one day, and refinished the stage with a shiny new look. It was ready for the Saturday show where CCEA mission team would perform. As Tom Montes said, ( the leader of the team) “This is like homemakeovers, for the kingdom of God.” The fun was just beginning as we then prepared for the next day which was for the first time a “ March for Jesus” in the city where we live here, Christians from all over Costa Rica came to stand up for who we believe in Jesus! and pray for the country, and go out to parks and talk to people about Jesus. The mission team was able to do a drama in the park.This day many came to know Jesus, and made decisions to turn from their lives of sin, drugs, alchol,sexual immorality, and walk with their maker God. It is always a powerful testimony when one can witness a lost soul and how the love of God reaches down and changes a persons life in a moment. Many of these people have made contacts with the churches here we are working with to grow in their new lives with Christ. Next we headed for what one can call the “Compton of Costa Rica”Guarari.Filled with poverty, drugs, sexual abuse, youth prostitution, & where fear grips the hearts of those living in this area due to the high crime rate. One would never guess by the smiles of the children and youth that greet a outsider coming to share with them the love of God. Three days here everyone worked hard , beauty station was set up haircuts, manicures, Medical team assisting the sick, Bible skits and stories ,crafts, and food for some that could have been their only meal for the day. Yet for the days we were there, each child, youth, & adult felt the love of God and saw a living Jesus manifested to them through each smile or kicking a soccer ball, or trying to speak the language. One night was a dinner with the students from the Discipleship classes, everyone got to mingle with each other worship our Lord and the team presented each student with a notebook, highlighter, and pen. They were all so grateful. We had a wonderful time, as we all know the time came for the team to go back , it was a bitter sweet goodbye! But we hold on to the many laughs, and memories that we got to all experience together … Serving our King to bring him Glory. ISAIAH 52:7

SWEET FELLOWSHIP -May 2010

2010-05-25T18:44:00.000-07:00

Oh , how sweet is the gathering of the brethren. When God’s people gather together to worship the Lord in a unity and oneness that is ours in the body of Christ . Psalm 133:1- Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for the brethren to dwell together in unity. (NKJV)

So it began the sweet fellowship with the other Calvary Missionaries at the “Marriage Retreat” (May 11-13) Hosted my Vista C.C. , Pastor Rob Selvato & his wife Denise along with a team, came to Costa Rica to bless us and refresh us. From their church was called out to Tamarindo , coastal area about 4 hours away from where we live in Costa Rica, Phillip & wife Rebecca to start a Calvary church. It was on their hearts to begin the retreats for the missionaries and families, and so God has used them to be instruments of His love and encouragement for us.

What goes on at a missionary retreat? Well… pray, worship our God, share what God is doing in us and through us, morning devotions, and bible studies, eat together, and point one another to Jesus. You see it is the same that happens when you go to church, join a bible study, there is such a sweet presence of our savior Jesus when we come together and be encouraged to good works, encouraged to seek the Lord, encouraged to forsake the things of this world, and encouraged to walk close to Christ. Where we come and are being built up and edified in our faith, and being comforted together in the Scriptures. It is perfectly said, in Hebrews 10:24- And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much more as you see the Day approaching. (NKJV) Jesus did not intend for us to walk this walk alone, but to enjoy the family we have in Him!!!

It is so amazing that at this time God knew that we would be here in Costa Rica
along with many others serving Him, and give us the sweet fellowship with each other. If I may encourage you to go on a retreat if you never have, get involved with your church, and don’t miss out what God has for You!!!

JOY- JESUS , OTHERS, YOURSELF...GREATNESS OF SERVING

2010-05-24T18:47:00.000-07:00

To Serve is Greatness...Reflecting Jesus
Yet it shall not be so among you; but whoever desires to become great among you, let him be your servant. And whoever desires to be first among you, let him be your slave- just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many. Matt. 20:26-28

It has been nine months now since the first day of the School of Ministry and Discipleship. By God's word being taught, He has been faithful to bring fruit forth from the students. And also through our lives.His grace and mercy never seize to be short and always at our grasps.

Our prayers from the start had been to see God move and change lives in their hearts, & put into action. About two months ago God was showing us that after each class and before we started the students would not just come and watch us set up or put seats and tables away, they are now staying after to help! Or some will bring at times bread to share with the class or a bag of coffee. We are seeing God move in action and they are understanding what Jesus meant when he talked about serving.

You see in Costa Rica, majority pastors, leaders, of the church are held in a very high position and have forgotten the meaning of "servant" they prefer to be served. Working with many from different churches, God had showed us this problem, but His word is so life changing and they are now serving. Also, it is wonderful how it reminds us personally that to serve is better to be served , that God’s grace allows us to be examples and not forget our prime example…Jesus and His service. May God bless you and be filled with His Joy. JESUS OTHERS YOURSELF. For the glory and kingdom of our savior Jesus,
Victor & Nichol Mejia

Not unto us, O LORD, not unto us, But to Your name give glory,Because of Your mercy,Because of Your Truth. Psalm 115:1 - March Update

2010-04-21T12:53:00.000-07:00

Counsel with the word of God or Psychology?
In Costa Rica many churches have what they call a Christian Psychologist or Counselor. Sadly to say many mix what the word of God says, with what they have learned in their studies for Psychology. Their hearts are moved with compassion to help and guide others in resolving their problems. However the word of God can not be mixed with worldly counsel. As we are exhorted by the apostle Paul in Colossians 3:16, " Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. The word here "admonishing" can also be interpreted as " to counsel" How? with letting the word of God dwell in us.

We have two students in the classes who have been transformed with the knowledge of the word of God and have allowed their hearts and minds be renewed in their thinking and what they have been taught towards that which God instructs. Lleane is a counselor at her church and outside job is a professional psychologist. Yenri, is a young girl who is studying to be a psychologist. The last several months we have been teaching " Self-Confrontation" By the Biblical Counseling Foundation, which teaches disciplining, and counseling confronting one with the word of God. Lleane,& Yenri, have testified to us and shared with the class that they are seeing how they were allowing other influences not the word of God or mixed with other philosophies, when they would put in practice their counseling. They are so grateful for the preparation they are receiving and the light that has been shed in their hearts to be able to rightly counsel others and point them to the what God says, not men.

So we are all exhorted throughout the word of God to teach and admonish one with His word, even though we are not " profesional psycologist" we have the one who is the wisest counselor of all... Jesus, and by His grace uses us to be instruments of His wisdom,& knowledge. May we all like Lleane said, " Give others God's word and tell them in love what He says, not what we think or have been taught that does not compromise the word of God, by doing so I have seen,powerfully God transforming my patients, and restoring marriages, and bringing comfort to many lives, and changing mine."
Please continue to pray for the students and families of those that God is doing a work in. 2 Timothy, 4:1-5
For the Glory of God, In His grace and love, Victor & Nichol

MEN'S WHOSE HEARTS GOD HAS TOUCHED Feb. 2009 update

2010-03-16T10:46:00.000-07:00

Men's Whose Hearts God Has Touched

Reading through 1st Samuel a verse jumped out to me and the Lord used it to speak to us about just exactly what He is doing with some young men in the School of Ministry and Discipleship. Scenario: As Saul leaves to take over as king, First Samuel 10:26 says, " Valiant men went with him, whose hearts God had touched."

For us it is so exciting being amongst an environment with a group of people whose hearts have been touched by God. It is an explosive situation. Jesus touched the hearts of His disciples, and they went out and turned the world upside down.

So who exactly are these young men who God has touched their hearts through classes, with a calling ? Meet Walter & Will, Antonio & Alonso. Walter & Will serve together in J-Holy ( a evangelical organization for the youth and families through dramas) They both are leaders of J-Holy and are in their early 20's., they attend wed. night classes. Walter & Will came to Victor a couple of weeks ago to share how , God had touched their hearts. How? through the last seven months knowing God more through the classes, putting in them a desire and urgency to instruct the youth with what they are learning. They are going to begin with ," How to study the bible with Joy" by Skip Heitzig ( one of the classes they received) Both of these young men shared that this is what the youth of Costa Rica need, the word and know how to live and use it in their lives. They shined with Jesus joy and excitement to do His work and step out in faith and allow to be available by teaching God's word.

Antonio & Alonso, attend Mon. night classes and are both best friends. It is wonderful to see their growth in God and excitement as they prepare in the word. Hearts being touched by God. Through prayer and seeing the need for a youth group at their church, God has been working in them and preparing them to take the lead. Their first event will be a walk with the youth on March 20th and a bible study. With some nerves as they begin this new adventure teaching God's word, have said, " We know that our capacity is not of ourselves but of God, we want to obey Him and share what we are learning. Then jokingly and laughing said," we know it is because we are the most handsome."

Valiant young men they are standing in times of darkness, where the culture they live is telling them that right is wrong and wrong is right. How glorious it is to see hearts touched by God. Anything can happen. In Christs service,
Victor& Nichol

For the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show Himself strong on behalf of those whose heart is loyal to Him. 2ND Chr. 16:9

January Update- Power of Prayer

2010-02-15T13:01:00.000-08:00

Beloved believers in Christ, Praise to our mighty God who inclines His ears to our prayers that are like a sweet fragrance to His heavenly throne. By faith asking for Him to do a mighty work , and so He is doing in Costa Rica. Thank you for your many prayers!

Jeremiah 33:3 Call unto me, and I will answer thee, and show thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not.

We had asked for prayers that God would bring many more students to the classes. January began the new semester, and God answered by bringing 35 new people to enroll. There is a variety of different ages, some youth, middle age, and elderly. As well as many who are stay home mom's, single parents, businessman, some studying at colleges, universities, and leaders of their churches. And others who have been mislead by false teachings.

When we look at the students arrive, some hurrying from a long drive sitting in traffic, others taking a bus, a mom finishing dinner and a young man who is the only believer in his family. God reminds us of the verse that Paul writes to the Galatians: There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus. Galatians 3:28 What a great work to see God drawing His people to come together and know Him more. That no matter what our background or worldly status may be, in Christ Jesus we are all one. Aiming for that goal to know Him and make Him known.

This month one young man surprised us with his attendance the first day of the classes. His name is Esteban he had been attending a church years ago and hurt by the pastor who had been falsely teaching God's word. We had met with him last August when the classes had started and he said, " that is great God is calling you to do the bible school" yet skeptical in his voice, questioning what was going to be taught. He has been coming to the classes with his fiance and is staying after classes to ask questions. God is healing his heart and finding that through His word their is truth, and studying for himself using his bible.

These were more fair-minded than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness, and searched the Scriptures daily to find out whether these things were so. Act 17:11

Praise be to God for His marvelous works!
In His service, Victor & Nichol

December Update- He who does not love does not know God, for God is love. 1 John 4:8

2010-01-18T20:36:00.000-08:00

(Jn 13:35)By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another."
This verse has been so alive for us this last year in Costa Rica through each of you their at CCEA and many of you from other churches, family & friends.It is amazing to be a part of a body where the love of God is transmitted, through prayers, emails, cards for Christmas, and tamale sales!! We are ever so grateful to our Lord for all of you who show us God's love and maybe you do not know us personally but knowing God He has put in your heart a love for His children and it is a beautiful picture of what Jesus said about Love.
December, we were able to do a Christmas dinner before the break for the students with the funds that were made at the garage sale. It was a night of fellowship, prayer, bible question games, and getting to know the students and their families a little better. It was a testimony of God's love & provision. Many here in Costa Rica are used to churches or ministries taking their money for what ever reason they can. And because of the garage sale it was a night that they could receive from God a great dinner, dessert without having to worry about paying.
We started out the evening with a slide show of pictures of the classes throughout the year, then had testimonies of what God did in the students during the classes, a time of prayer, and a delicious dinner of chicken breast, salad and baked potato. But the night did not end their, after pastor Rudy, Ricardo, Jose, & Victor each gave a little message. We then played a bible question game and gave out gifts for the winners. One lady gave a testimony of how she had prayed for this school and how thankful she was for us and our home church that allowed us to come to Costa Rica and do God's work. Another young man spoke about how he had always wanted to study at a seminary but never could because of the expensive cost,God had answered his prayers and allowed him this opportunity to prepare himself in the word. And we all left edified; (Pr 27:17) Iron sharpeneth Iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend.
And God's love does not stop their His heart is always ready to pour out love to the brokenhearted, those in captivity to sin, and a world without knowing Christ. The doors were opened for us to be able to help in "Gurari" a very poor, and dark place, but what better place for Jesus light to shine. It was a Christmas event, with lots of gifts for over 5oo children between the ages of months to 20's. Working along side with pastor Orlando who has a ministry their for doing bible studies, and feeding them once a week. Many of the children it is the only meal they get for the week. God really broke our hearts to see the conditions that these people and their children are in yet it was wonderful to see that God is working their through Orlando & Raul (a young man ministering to the youth in drugs, and prostituion) Raul wants to go to the School of ministry to be more equipped in the word. We helped set up before and spend time with some of the children who so anxiously waited for the celebration of Christmas, Jesus!
Serving our King, Victor& Nichol
( 1 Cor. 13:13) And now abide faith, hope,love,these three; but the greatest of these is love.

Oh, give thanks to the LORD, for He is good! For His mercy endures forever.Psalms 136:1-2

2009-11-30T12:56:00.000-08:00

Thank you to all who were praying for our bus ride to El Salvador for the Calvary Chapel Central America Conference! God is faithful to answer, He protected us on the way there, through the very dense fog, and passing through all the immigration stops quickly.His favor went before us.Our bus driver was on the way there was a christian, he was a very cautious driver,& put praise music and the movie fireproof. How good is our God to send us a believer to take us with His care.

The 20 hr. bus ride went by really fast,and we slept(thank God!)We were also blessed to have Jose( the pastor where we go to church , and helps Vic. with the classes was able to go with us) We were all anxious to arrive knowing with much expectation that our wonderful God, was going to speak to us , encourage our hearts, and meet many fellow brothers, and sisters in Christ who are here in Central America serving our LORD. We arrived at 11:00 p.m. and next morning ready to start the conference at 8a..m and there it all began non-stop fellowship, teachings, and the pouring out of God's love through each of His servants who helped put this conference together.We were blessed by a Calvary Chapels provisions and paid for two nights of all who attended the conference, at the Sheraton. What a beautiful hotel! Once again it was God's goodness overflowing unto us.

On the way to the conference! (Pastor Jose)

First day of the conference each pastor, missionary, and leaders, were given 10min. to share what God was doing in there ministry in the country they were serving in.Victor & I sharing about God's mighty moving with the schools of Discipleship and ministry.

Dave Eason , he is in charge of all Central America missionaries, through Calvary Chapel Costa Mesa. His heart is for them to be connected, and encourage one another. He is one of the persons who God uses to put together this amazing conference. Dave shared with us how he wants to come to Costa Rica and see what God is doing. His parents were missionaries to Costa Rica and then went on to El Salvador. God has used his family mightily for His kingdom and now him and his wife Sandy are taking over the mission that started yrs. ago through his parents. Dave has put together a website for Central America, so that people in the states can look up the different ministries and help if they feel led to. ( soon we will be on there and let you know!)

The teaching were given by , Pastors from different Calvary in the states. And for us it was such a blessing, two of whom were teachers of Victor's at the School of Ministry in Costa Mesa. Pastor Jaime Siman who wants to come visit and teach at the school,also Pastor Sergio Lopez.The teachings all weekend were from Eph. 6:10-18 Spiritual Warfare.

We are so excited this is Geiner& Denise( left to right)who are coming to Costa Rica on Dec. 28th being sent out from Albuquerque, Skip Heitzig church, Calvary Chapel.We had met them last year at the conference and knew they would be coming, and now the time has arrived. They will be living only 7 min. away from us. Their hearts is to church plant we, can't wait to see what God has in store with them and how we can serve together. Doug & Rosemary, were another precious couple we met who are as well coming to Costa Rica in Jan. to the Lang. institute for Spanish, as they feel called to Central America.

On Sunday their is a woman's tea hosted by many sweet lady's from different Calvary's which arrive a week before the conference and prepare for this event.It is always a reflection of God's love for each woman who attends. Through their baking, and gifts,teachings of the word, and long hours of preparation for 4oo woman. Jesus heart is definitely seen their, and touched our hearts with His amazing love for each one of us.

The schools of Discipleship are going great! the students are getting ready for their exams this week. And we will finish this quarter off with a dinner on Dec.4th as the month of Dec. will be a break for the Christmas season.This dinner is all possible due to first of all God! and our faithful loving care team members who had a garage sale for the ministry here. THANK YOU!! Dec. will be a time of preparing for the next quarter of classes, meetings with the pastors we are working with.Dec.17th we are doing a outreach to a very poor area, lots of drugs, prostitution of young girls. Please keep this event in your prayers! This is where it starts!

God is so good, and we have so much to be thankful for! For His son Jesus, who has given us life eternal,hope, and new lives in Him! Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation;old things have passed away;behold, all things have become new. This month of November flew by, and as we reflect on all that God is doing it leaves us in awe! It is great that we who know Christ; daily can be thankful for all that we have in Jesus!And not wait for one day of " Thanksgiving" yet daily give thanks to Him! May the love of Christ abound in your hearts, and if you do not know Him, open your heart to Jesus the king of kings, friend, counselor and savior!

Matthew 6:19-21 Storing Up in Heaven !

2009-11-03T11:33:00.000-08:00

Youth With A Misson Teachings:
This was a great opportunity for us to go and teach for a week.They are students who come from all over the world for a six month training in world missions, it is a worldwide organization.We had so much fun spending time with the sudents after classes and getting to know them over lunch. God has developed some great relationships with us and the students! There were three, Kari,( from Panama)& husband Allen( from Texas), Catalina ( from C.R.) & David (from Huntington Beach)

A outreach with J-Holy, to feed the homeless and evangelize.There are five students who are in the Bible classes and we joined them, after a One day retreat in the mountains where Victor was invited to take the message.What a wonderful time we had together with them and getting to know them better.

J-Holy? What is this organization:
Nine years ago the Lord put on Victor & six of his closes friends heart to reach out to the youth of Costa Rica. They began to pray and God gave them ideas to start theater productions, every saturday for free. With no money but a God who owns it all provided for them month to month to rent a little studio where they would do a show and bring Jesus into it and introduce them to the audience at the end. God grew the ministry& gave them a place which seats 500 people, every saturdays hundreds still come and receive Jesus. Rudy (next to Victor in the pic. is the Pastor of a church here and has taken the organization as a ministry of the church) It is now a new generation , but amazing to be a part of what God started nine years ago & have the privelege to have students in the bible classes with us! J-(for jovenes-youth) Holy, youth's walking in holiness for Christ.

Victor using the gifts God gave him and teaching at the one day retreat with J-Holy on Ephesians "The whole Armor of God" after the message, one girl came up to us in tears saying that God really spoke to her personally about a situation in her life. God's word is active & alive and He gets all the Glory!!!!!

Jesus spoke to his disciples about how earthly things will be of no value. In today's world media and advertisements tell us the contrary. The more you have the better you are, or the new shoes ( that maybe do not need but are on sale are what we need)However Jesus tells us that we won't go to heaven with anything, no matter how many pair of shoes, shirts, dresses, or sets of silverware.What will matter is where are our priorities? Eternal things will last, and where our heart is focused and concentrated on is what will come out of it.

We have been so blessed to see God moving in those amongst us here in Costa Rica and see the fruit and be able to know that maybe the newspapers aren't selling this or the media is not here, but JESUS is and he sees all! These precious souls here are being stored up in heaven and being transformed by the word of God. Thank you for being a part of God's work with us and storing up in eternity.

Testamonies- Sept. 2009

2009-10-06T21:05:00.000-07:00

Meet some students and see what God is doing in their lives.Some are single, some are married , and some are a family of four but they all have one thing in common a desire to know God more and learn truth in His word.

-
Walter, rising up to serve!!! Brenda"knowing God more" Mom & children grow in God

Dearly beloved family in Christ! it is with much love and joy we write to proclaim how wonderful our God is moving in the hearts and lives of the students here in the School of discipleship and ministry.
But be doers of the word,and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. James 1:22 That is exactly what is happening in the schools.After two months of starting we are blessed to see fruit in the lives of students.They are rising up in their local churches and putting into practice what they are learning. One young man named " Walter" , went to his leader and said he is learning so much from the classes and wanted to pour out what he was learning onto others. He felt called to direct and guide new believers class in their ministry for evangelizing every saturday nights to hundreds of youth. Others have expressed that they have been walking with God for years, and have never heard such depth and truth into God's word.

God is blessing His mission, and the people here in Costa Rica, leaders from the churches,& pastors are grateful for the work here and are seeing answered prayers! We are blessed to be a part of God's work and see fruit of what is happening, it brings us closer to God , encourages, gives us faith to keep on going, to live in reverence and be examples for the students by what we preach!! Doing it all for Jesus! Thank you for all your prayers and support that allow us to be obedient to God's call.

In God's great love, Victor&Nichol Mejia

"The classes are such a blessing!we have prayed for this and it is great to see God answer prayers.They have helped us to better be equipped to give an answer for the hope that we have.It is wonderful, together as a marriage we can grow in God's truth!" Jonathan&Marilu