In their seventh year as a new church development in Bakersfield, Nuevo Amanecer ("New Hope") is led by Rev. Arcesio Cruz, an ordained Presbyterian pastor originally from Colombia This congregation works "diligently," confident that God blesses their outreach and service in the community. Their dream of a place to grow and expand and to build their own identity as a congregation was helped this year by being honored with the Walton Award. The $50,000 adds to their building fund, while they keep looking for a place they can afford.
With so many needs around them, the deacons are kept busy helping with food, clothes, and furniture. In addition, they help pay for medications. Children in the congregation, whose parents can't afford it, receive health and dental care through
insurance which is paid for by Nuevo Amanecer fundraisers. (See the Los Ninos Health Insurance Project). Rev. Cruz is teaching, counseling, and working to develop leadership among the members. Hispanic Family Camp at Mt. Hermon is a special annual event, and this year 75 people of all ages attended from Nuevo Amanecer. The time was a blessing
for everyone and many were baptized. Nuevo Amanecer asks for your continued prayers and financial support, so as children of God, they can continue to grow and reach the Hispanic community in Bakersfield.
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