This past weekend, my husband and I shared something deeply meaningful with our church family—something sacred we’ve been carrying with the Lord for a long, long time. I’m still catching my breath. It was tender. Holy. Marked by the nearness of God. And while my heart is still catching up with all that’s unfolding, I sat down and began to put words to it.
For the past fifteen years, we’ve belonged to a church that has been far more than a place to attend. It’s been a home. A refuge. A family.
We’ve watched God’s goodness unfold in the most beautiful ways—through His people. Through the love, faithfulness, and resilience of His Bride. We’ve stood witness to miracles, seen lives restored, watched strangers become family, and held space for moments only Heaven could orchestrate.
We’ve cradled babies and watched them grow into bold leaders of faith. We’ve laughed, wept, prayed, hoped, and grown up here—in every way that matters.
For fifteen years, we’ve tasted the richness of life lived shoulder to shoulder with the people of God. It’s shaped our souls and stretched our faith. It’s been one of the greatest honors of our lives to shepherd, serve, and lead in this house. Truly.
And this weekend, we stepped into something new. With the blessing of our church family, Emilio and I have been sent out to expand the Kingdom in a new way through church planting.
This isn’t a goodbye—it’s a commissioning. The assignment is changing, but the love remains. The mission continues.
We carry with us—every name, every story, every whispered prayer over the last 15 years. Shepherding, pastoring and being leaders in this house wasn’t just a gift-it was one of the greatest honors and clearest calls we’ve ever known. Our hearts are full-grateful, humbled, and ready for the next chapter. One we’re still holding with tender hearts and eyes fixed on Jesus.
I’ll be sharing more soon about what’s ahead. But for now, I’d be honored if you’d pray with us, and kept walking with us into all God has next.
This is wild, Lets go!
Dear faithful and loving Father, Thank you for the calling you’ve placed on Pastor Emilio and Jackie’s hearts to plant the new church. We ask that you would guide him and Jackie with your wisdom, discernment and power.
We pray for their families and those of us that may be a source of support and encouragement. Bless our team, and grant us unity and understanding. May we collaborate with love. Strengthen our marriages and our families so we can be true examples of your love to our community.
We pray for the church plant. May it be a thriving community, where members find healing and transformation. Let us be bold and clear when sharing the gospel. We pray for eyes that will see and ears that will hear. We pray for hearts to be softened and opened to follow you, Jesus!
Father, we ask for your provision. Grant them wisdom in making decisions, and guide them in their ministry. We pray for the resources needed both financial and personal, to carry out your work. We trust in your promise that you will be with them, even in the difficult times.
We pray these things in your mighty name. Amen!
So excited to meet our new community!
Love you guys so much!!
So ready for the “ Heart“ work !! To God be all the glory!!
Wow. This was so timely.
Thank you for these words and this prayer of faith! It is fuel to my steps. More than you’ll ever know!