Elizabeth Bellon

Elizabeth is Rabbi Manuel's daughter, and she is married to Claude, who is in school to become a Messianic Rabbi. Elizabeth was born into a Catholic family in Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mx. After her mother Celia encountered Jesus through a Christian missionary group, her mother was baptized, received the Holy Spirit and was miraculously healed from an illness. Secretly, for ten years Celia took Elizabeth and her sister and brother to a Christian church in Guadalajara. Elizabeth accepted Jesus and got baptized at the age of 5.  During her youth, her father was a source of pain at home because of his excessive drinking. As a result of 10 years of fervent prayer by her mother, Elizabeth's father eventually surrendered his life to Jesus,  got baptized and immediately replaced his thirst for alcohol with a hunger for the Word of God. Elizabeth was a witness to the hand and power of God in her dad's immediate transformation. Her dad, Rabbi Manuel Hernandez was called by God to minister to the Jewish people of Mexico.

He finished seminary, got a Master's in theology and as a Rabbi established the 'Yeshua Ben David' Synagogue in Guadalajara. In 2018 the Synagogue celebrated it's 31st anniversary. Our Father in heaven hears our prayers and He responds in ways that we could not even imagine. In 1986 at the age of 19 Elizabeth entered La Universidad Autónoma de Guadalajara to become a doctor. "I was swept up into the world as a very innocent girl. I came from a traditional Mexican family who all attended church." During her internship in Ensenada, Elizabeth met and married a man who was also enrolled in school to become a doctor.  My husband said he believed in God, but his life choices did not match his words. Elizabeth graduated Medical School and received her license to practice medicine in 1992.  When she was only 23 years old, in 1993 Elizabeth gave birth to a son which she proudly named Isai.

Her son was named after Jesse the Father of King David. Isai grew up comparing his mother's walk with Jesus and his dad's walk through a world of drugs and alcohol.  As there were no Christian schools in Guad at that time, her son attended Catholic schools. His teachers were confounded by all of Isai's questions! "Why do you put food out for dead people on the Day of the Dead? They are dead!  Why do you pray to statues when you can pray to a living God?" It was such a blessing that Elizabeth's childhood friend Fernanda was a Christian. Fernanda attended grammar school, high school and medical school with Elizabeth and Fernanda was there to comfort and give wise counsel when it was desperately needed. In the words of Elizabeth "As I was pursuing my way, not His, I would not listen to God during the turbulence of my marriage. After years of being stubborn and self-sufficient, I finally  broke down and cried out to God 'You freed Your people from slavery in Egypt, why must I remain enslaved to this man I married?  My mother prayed for my papa for 10 years and I saw how You transformed him!  Now I have been praying for 20 years and my husband remains the same!  Why? Lord how can I alone protect my son? I want a family for my son. Please Lord, I want to meet You in Your holiness and I ask that You mold me as my Creator shapes the clay"   Fernanda saw that her friend was struggling with what to do about her marriage and asked Elizabeth "Do you think that you can care for your son better than God?  Why don't you trust God with Isai?" These questions stirred the heart of Elizabeth and she knelt down to beg for God's mercy. She asked for God to forgive her for not truly trusting Him with all her heart. Elizabeth then entrusted her one and only son to her Savior, to the God of all power and greatness. She had waited until her son was 18 years of age to talk to her son about her desire to get a divorce. After an emotional, compelling encounter with God, Elizabeth told

her son that she could not remain married to his dad. Isai said "But Mama, I cannot leave my dad, he will die. You have God, my grandparents, and uncles, but my dad only has me."  With her heart breaking Elizabeth called Uber and went to go live with her dad and brother. "I had left Egypt and went to the promised land.  Even though I was suffering a clinical depression, I trusted that God knew my heart. I believe that my heavenly Father always keeps His promises."  Elizabeth lived with her parents and brother for a year and then one day her family decided that it was time for Elizabeth to open up her own Medical practice in Chapala.  Her brother paid her rent, food and he also leased the office space where Elizabeth now practices natural medicine."One day God brought a man to my herbal store. Claude Bellon, a man of the Catholic faith, a man who God had chosen for me.  My parents were hesitant to give us their blessing because Claude was older, a Catholic, a diabetic. Claude came to the Abundant Life Church and my pastor baptized him. We trusted God and within 6 months we got married."  It is the tradition and culture of Mexico to first have a civic ceremony, then a church ceremony.  A judge in Jocotopec came to the house of her brother and performed the civil service on March 15, 2014. Elizabeth's best friend Fernanda, her spouse, and Elizabeth's brother, her uncles and Claude's family were there to witness. At about 7:30 pm all the guests left accept Fernanda. After midnight, the phone rang and it was Isai's dad.

He told Elizabeth that their 20 year old son had been in a car accident on his way to Manzanillo.  Elizabeth was not alone, God had given her a loving husband Claude. Within hours Fernanda, her spouse and Mr and Mrs Bellon drove to Colima to visit Isai. On March 21, 2014, just six days later, Isai went home to be with Jesus for eternity.  Elizabeth recounts the story, not as a tragedy, but as the mercy and grace of God.  Three months later on June 14, 2014 Claude and Elizabeth were surrounded by family and friends as they exchanged vows at the Abundant Life Church in San Antonio.  Elizabeth's brother gave her away on her wedding day.  Eventually, after a time, her parents fully and proudly embraced their son-in-law. Today Rabbi Manuel is Claude's mentor and all of God's people in the family of Elizabeth are rejoicing in what the Lord has done! "Yet you are enthroned as the Holy One; you are the one Israel praises. In You our ancestors put their trust; they trusted and You delivered them. To You they cried out and were saved; in You they trusted and were not put to shame." Psalm 22:3 ------- CLICK ON PICS TO ENLARGE.

Lori Neighbor

Lori is a breath of fresh air! This Woman of Value was born and raised in Redding, California. She has two son's, one daughter and three grandchildren. Lori's mother was a gifted, anointed church organist who passed on her love of God and music to Lori.  Both of Lori's sons serve on the church worship team. Together they have ministered in Guadalajara and in several outdoor locations around Lakeside. She has produced a couple of wonderful CD's which continue to usher in the Holy Presence of God! Lori is a pastor's granddaughter, and Pastor Gary's adored wife. Lori and Gary dated in high school, got married and have ministered extensively in Mexico since 2004. While living in the USA, they ministered together in California, Colorado and Kansas for 16 years. Gary was asked to pastor Abundant Life church in San Antonio Tlayacapan in 2006. After personally participating in the monthly Sisterhood Bible studies for women who attend Abundant Life Church, I learned about the many outreaches Lori has been involved in throughout her life. This post is to encourage you to personally take time to get to know Lori.  Her children call her blessed, and so do I!  Locally, Abundant Life Church serves Chapala, Ajijic, Riberas del Pilar, Jocotopec, San Juan Cosalá, and surrounding communities. And through our emphasis on missions, we serve communities throughout Mexico and around the world. Abundant Life Church began in 2003 in the home of a local believer who believed that God wanted to meet and transform the English speaking community in the lakeside area.  Soon a local fish market was purchased and our current building was built through a joint venture with the Assemblies of God USA department of missions and the Assemblies of God México.  The church began Spanish language ministry in 2006 when our current pastor, Gary Neighbor, came.  Since then, the church has grown to include children´s, youth and adult ministries in both English and Spanish.  The church currently has 2 daughter churches in different municipalities giving supervision and ministry.  Abundant Life Church has a heart for the lost and is always included in the list of churches highlighted by the denomination for her giving to missions. The Neighbor family 2019.

The Children's Ministry has impacted the pueblo of San Antonio by feeding the local kids solid food. This year the theme for VBS was entitled "Aleluia Fest" Ninety one kids and their families were there for the graduation. "Every Praise is to our God" Lori and Gary have been serving in Mexico since 2004. Pastor Gary's life long desire was fulfilled as Abundant Life Church got recognized for the impact they have in the mission field. We are blessed to be in the Presence of the Lord as Lori and her talented sons, Matthew and Joshua, and Neto and the rest of the praise team use their God given talents each Sunday. Gary and Lori Neighbor welcome all church visitors to get to know them personally at monthly church family dinner's out.The weekly sermons will nourish your soul. Abundant Life Church, San Antonio Tlayacapan Mission Statement: Abundant Life Church exists to reach the lost, teach holy doctrine and present the culture of Jesus to a diverse community with the goal that the community desires to be part of a new culture and experience the transformation needed in order to be a full citizen of heaven, providing a secure place where people can attend and worship God while giving love and hope through Evangelism; Discipleship; Worship; Missions. CLICK for more info about:  Abundant Life Church  Sample a sermon July 23, 2023  "Our Dreams Serve the Lord" Willing to have Dream Modified?

Jennette Black

Jennette is known to be an eternal optimist! She is one beautiful woman who operates within the realm of HOPE. "Rejoice and exult in hope; be steadfast and patient in suffering and tribulation; be constant in prayer." Romans 12:12 AMP She causes all to marvel as we learn to understand the depth of her sparkle. Life has not always been easy, but by the hand of God, this babe, once lost in the woods, emerged to shine and inspire others to control their minds. "Think about whatever is lovely, pure and good".  Jennette Noack Black was born on December 07, 1948, in Vancouver, Washington. Her parents, Gene and Marjorie, met while dancing and got married in 1946. Her father worked in construction and drove big rigs while her mom worked as a waitress and at a telephone company switchboard. At the age of 12, Jennette, the eldest of four, asked her mom how she tolerated her father’s drunken temper. In 1962 her two brothers Lynn Alan and Jerry Mert and her little sister Debra Ann were gently ushered through a divorce. Two years later Marjorie married Wesley, a strict but kind man who was respected. While living in Vancouver, Marjorie always insisted that her kids attend the local Lutheran Church. As a good student, with great attendance, at the age 20, Jennette earned a scholarship to a beauty school in Vancouver.  Her Aunt Virginia offered Jennette a job at her upscale Salon in Spokane, Washington.  Jennette was off on her very first of many grand adventures. At the radiant age of 74, Jennette continues supporting herself as a ‘Beauty Operator.  At the Spokane salon, her effervescent sparkle attracted a ski instructor. As they dated, her love of the sport blossomed into a dream of living in a place outside of Washington's rainy weather. 

At the age of 22, she convinced her friend Caroline to move to Aspen, Colorado. Within three days, they both were shocked to discover that they could not afford Colorado.  God stepped in with a divine appointment that these two young and vulenrable women meet two Christian gentlemen. They offered the girls their office to make calls to locate an apartment and jobs.  Jennette and Caroline soon learned that the jobs they found would not provide adequate income for housing. These saintly men sent by God were aware of their desperation. They never attempted to harm, only help. They invited the girls to their home in Denver for a Thanksgiving with their families. While in Denver the girls attended the local non-denominational Mega Church. They shared an apartment and Jennette took odd jobs and worked hard to sustain her dream as she went through a couple of room mates. For a time she dated a guy named Jim exclusively. Jim had scars from a previous relationship and he was needy, possessive and insecure. Our Father delights in our dreams, and He is ever present to gently modify them. Jennette later learned that her mother never approved of Jim. Working in a Denver salon, Jennette had a client named Jan who wanted Jennette to meet her son Randy. Jennette had reservations about dating a spoiled rich kid and dismissed her offer. As God's providence was ever at work, one Sunday a storm blew in that prevented Jennette and her girlfriend from attending the Mega Church. They chose to shift gears and attend a smaller neighborhood church that her client had suggested.  Jennette recalls "it just felt like I was home the moment we walked in." Jennette, who reads everything, was amazed to read down the list of pew sitters.  The "Ritual of Friendship Pad" included the name Randy Black. Her client's son was sitting in the same pew. She looked down to catch a glimpse, and Randy caught her eye! The visiting girls giggled and after service Randy asked them to lunch. The girls politely declined. Randy was not easily discouraged and so he soon calls with another invite. Jennette impressed a wounded Randy with her response. "I cannot accept a date with you until I am officially released from my relationship with Jim."  Remembering with a smile "we played tennis, went for coffee, laughed and talked about everything. Randy was a total gentlement and he worked in the family business." Their intentional casual dating of just 3 months resulted in a wedding on Novemebr 15, 1974 at "Faith Presbyterian Church" in Aurora, Colorado.

Randy had two kids from his previous marriage and in 1976 they brought Rebecca into the world and in 1980, Adam was born. Eventually the family built a large home on five acres with an indoor swimming pool in Parker, Colorado. The family remained very involved in church activiies and developed strong relationships in Colorado. Randy and Jennette chose to travel to tropical locations as they bothing enjoyed diving.  After the kids grew up Randy shared his lifelong dream to live aboard a sail boat. After much prayer and research, the couple listed their big house for sale and in 2008 flew to Capetown, South Africa to have a custom 50 foot catamaran built. We arrived in October of 2008 and watched the construction. Within a month on the water their dream boat began falling apart. Once again God modified their dreams and prepared the couple for what was coming.  They returned to Colorado and in 2009 chose to rent while their family home was up for sale. They lived 6 months in Colorado and then rented in Georgetown, Texas for 6 months. God knew what was to be and in 2012 they bought a home in Sun City, Texas. They found a church, but missed the deep connections in Colorado. In 2014 Jennette attended a Women's Bible Study. Cheryl Jagst was co-leading and invited the women over to her house. Ever walking in His grace, Jennette was the only woman who showed up that day. It was a day the Lord knew was important. They got to know one another more intimately while crafting jewelery.  Cheryl, was a neighbor who only lived a few houses down in Sun City.  Today they marvel as they look back and see God's hand in their relationship. Cheryl invited Jennette and Randy over for Easter in March of 2016. Randy's appetitie was greatly diminished. In April 2016 his doctor announced that he had stage 4 pancreatic cancer. "Behold, I am always with you." Matthew 28:20  No matter what, we are challenged to look for the good in every situation. Randy's name is written in the Book of Life, and this became their basis for continued hope.

Courageously, the couple decided not to tell the kids until after their daughters 40th birthday party. After his diagnosis, Randy's health deteriorated rapidly and he never drove a car, or played golf again. In May of 2016, our merciful God took Randy home before he was ever bedridden. Susan, a friend from church visited during those final six weeks of Randy's life on earth. Their church administered communion in their home and Jennette tenderly reflects on God's Amazing Grace, which was Randy's favorite song. 

In August of 2016 Jennette pulled up her big girl pants and chose to fly to Greece with friends from Colorado. "God gave me His strength to make travel plans. Because Randy had always made all the arrangements for us, it was now my time to step out of my comfort zone and trust Him. This trip was exactly what the adventurous spirit in me needed! I came home feeling  empowered and entirely thankful for all God has done for me." Jennette first came to Lakeside with Cheryl in 2018. In Sun City she is involved in Bible Studies, she kayaks, enjoys daily walks and still works as a hair stylist. While visiting at Lakeside, she enjoys the worship and fellowship at Abundant Life Church in San Antonio Tlyacapan.  Today Jennette thrilled to visit the malecon in Jocotopec and afterwards treated me to a great meal at Vida Bella in San Juan Cosala.  Pictured above with the Heffa at a NEW restaurant in Ajijic. Poncho's son will manage this newest lakeview cafe. "Hope in the Lord; for with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him is abundant redemption." Psalm 130:7 NKJ 

Lori Mailloux Pompa

Meet Lori, a woman of value who loves music. A day spent with this vibrant and vocal Canadian is like being soaked in liquid sunshine! Lori is an amazing overcomer who was born as a gift to all on January 11, 1967.  Her hometown is Windsor, Ontario, Canada. Her parents produced a brood of 7 and Lori was their last child. "My mother was disillusioned by the Catholic church when they refused to bury her stillborn sister in the Catholic cemetery. The good news is that mom personally encountered Jesus when I was 10 and then she became a zealous evangelist! Dad struggled with depression and he remained a devout Catholic until he was born again at age 75.  Our family history, for a period of time, included a poverty of soul. Growing up, the person that made me feel any value was my brother Terry. This  precious brother left home when I was 9 and I felt lost, abandoned.  A major change occurred when I was 15.  I took a bus trip to Florida with a youth group. God showed me how sin destroys relationships, but He also continues to lavish His love on me, despite my transgressions! My preference for worship has always been with a Pentecostal hand raising freedom . "  At age 17 Lori met a man named Dan. He was a new Christian with a desire to become a song writer. Within Dan's family there was a history of substance abuse. With hope in her heart, Lori married Dan when she was 19 years old.  Lori graduated in 1990 with a degree in Accounting, Business Administration. With help from her parents she was able to purchase a duplex and two rental properties. Lori shared "All I ever wanted was to get married and have a family. We tried all options for me to get pregnant. What worked was my submission to God. A friend prayed over my reproductive system in 1998. Within a month, BAM I was with child!

My one and only son Andrew Isaac was born on February 1, 1999."  After four separations and 17 years of marriage Lori filed for divorce in 2003. Lori attended Al-Anon and Celebrate Recovery at the Windsor Family Forum. With revelation from God, Lori accepted her devastating part in the demise of her relationship after a counselor  suggested that Lori accept her responsibility. A dinner dance was held at the Forum and Frank was the DJ.  Long story short, Frank and Lori began seeing one another in 2005 when Lori's son Andrew was six years old. "During my crisis of faith, the lyrics to the song "Held" by Natalie Grant kept circling in my mind and heart." Lori admits she struggled about why God would allow her marriage to fail! The lyrics to this song spoke volumes to Lori and while 'being still' God spoke "You never asked Me". In 2008 Lori married Frank at an Italian Restaurant in Canada.  In 2012  Lori was forced to retire early at the age of 45 due to chronic fatigue. After much research, in 2016 Lori and her husband Frank moved to Panama. Within a year the extreme weather began affecting her health. More research revealed

improved weather conditions and a lower cost of living at Lakeside. Once again Lori packed up her four dogs and she moved to Lakeside with her husband Frank in November 2017. Soon after her son Andrew joined them in January 2018.  A recent answered prayer is that her son was locally employed and her search for a permanent home has been rewarded. Exploring all pockets of residences was thrilling and soon escrow will close on the perfect casa in Chapala. "Thinking about how amazing my life is today compared to where I was 15 years ago. I could never have imagined how wonderful my future would be. When you let God be in the driver's seat your life becomes an exciting adventure. Not easy, but definitely rewarding and awesome!"  The lyrics of "Hold Me" by Natalie Grant. "Two months is too little. They let him go...they had no sudden healing. To think that providence would take a child from his mother while she prays is appalling.  Who told us we'd be rescued? What has changed and why should we be saved from nightmares? We're asking why this happens to us, who have died to live? It's unfair.  This is what it means to be held. How it feels when the sacred is torn from your life and you survive.  This is what it is to be loved. And to know that the promise was when everything fell we'd be held.  This hand is bitterness. We want to taste it, let the hatred numb our sorrow. The wise hands opens slowly to lilies of the valley and tomorrow.  This is what it means to be held. How it feels when the sacred is torn from your life and you survive. This is..If hope is born of suffering, if this is only the beginning, can we not wait for one hour watching for our Savior?"

This refreshing smiling force landed in Chapala and we are all blessed by her oozing JOY.  She travels to Guadalajara to minister to the poor with Andy and Karyn Pricer. She is a quick study with a brilliant mind. Within a year her ability to communicate in Spanish is amazing!.  She attended a faith conference recently and it's impact is lasting!  What is posted herein is just a splash of what Lori has to offer.  Her radiance is the Joy of the Lord which is all over her! The truth of Lori as others widely agree .... is that her passion is indeed infectious! Matthew 6:33 "But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." Another precious promise from God that Lori embraces is "And the boy Samuel continued to grow in stature and in favor with the Lord and with people." My son Andrew is thriving in Mexico and I praise God! He has a talent to write perhaps about "Evermore".  Evermore blessings for sure!

Sacha Phariss

Sacha is an amazing young Woman of Value who was born on September 10, 1990 in Santa Cruz, California. Since childhood she confessed that she has always wanted to be a missionary. Sacha beamed “Our family never went on vacations, my dad would seize every opportunity to tell people about Jesus, so even when the family went to Hawaii, it was a mission trip.” When she was 4 years old her memories of Haiti was the extreme poverty. She was deeply disturbed as she watched people eating newspapers and while taking a shower, the cinder block walls would swarm with cockroaches.” Sacha’s desire to be a missionary was because of what God allowed her to see all before the age 12. She had been to Chili, Barbados, Mexico, Canada, Hawaii, Haiti and Puerto Rico. Her perspective and goals in life were radically different from all of her home schooled peers. Sacha recalls returning home to a fridge full of food and a comfortable bed which was a stark contrast to the reality she experienced in the mission field. Her father and mother, Kenneth and Susanna met at Bible School in Santa Cruz. When Sacha was nearly 13, the family moved to Monterey, Mexico. Her only sibling Eric was away in school and while her mom and dad attended to legal matters in the city, Sacha spent hours at home alone, doing her homework, communing with God and sketching horses in pencil. Looking back Sacha appreciates that this time alone deepened her reliance on God. She had no friends and zero outdoor activities to

distract her. While interviewing Sacha she twinkled “I was never really a rebellious child, except for the fact that I never wanted to learn Spanish or move to Mexico. I did however want a horse, and by moving to Mexico it was more financially feasible.” To her great delight, her dad brought home an abused pregnant mare that Sacha named Twilight. After one year living in Monterey, the family moved to Ajijic which was near her mother’s relatives in Guadalajara. The family lived in a house without furniture. “We used boxes for tables, and our mattresses were on the floor." Over the next couple of years Sacha's family traveled to host seminars and evangelize all over Mexico. Sacha found herself fumbling to translate conversations in Spanish for those participating in the mission trip. Through her obedience to serve as she could, she admits that she was way out of her comfort zone. “God has blessed me in so many ways. Trust me when I say that I have not lived as a suffering missionary kid. God has blessed our family with a beautiful office/home in San Juan Cosala." When I inquired about her choice to become a professional Equine Artist, Sacha replied “Thinking that I needed to serve in some way, from the age of 22-25 I volunteered at a local thrift shop at Lakeside. During this time, my desire to paint horses professionally became an internalized spiritual struggle. How could my painting possibly glorify God?" Sacha continued to paint as she sought God for direction. Sacha concluded that it is the Holy Spirit that distributes all gifts, according to His will. The characteristic of a servant is in their ability to see a practical need with a great desire to meet that need with much joy. Sacha had studied the gifts of the Spirit and determined that there was little joy for her in serving as a volunteer. It became clear that she remain pure and true to how God wired her. It was confirmed in her spirit that only God can fulfill her and that His joy was made complete through her painting. At the age of 27 Sacha chose to gladly express her God given talent by praying over each painting. Her prayer is that God would draw others to Himself as He speaks to each recipient through the painting. Sacha currently has over 18,000 followers on Instagram. She tells of how people worry and complain in comments about people who

steal their ideas and use their artwork to sell coffee mugs etc. “There is no such thing as an original idea, all good gifts come from God above. With the blessing I pray over every painting, if that image gets duplicated, glory to God, the blessing is then multiplied to touch more people!" Consider the Apostle Paul and how he prayed over handkerchiefs that people spread around and many were healed! Sacha’s favorite scripture: “God testified concerning him: 'I have found David son of Jesse, a man after My own heart; he will do everything I want him to do." Acts 13:22 Sacha shared that the highest compliment she has ever received from someone is; “you really have a heart after God”. This confirmed and validated her choice to paint horses for God’s glory! With unique style and various mediums, this equine artist places these muscular beauties in settings  she has personally visited. She produced a miniature series which combines the most stunning feature of the animal in real landscapes she has been.  Sacha sold home baked goods at the Monday Market in Ajijic to fund her trip to England. "I know God multiplied the funds because I just did not bake that much stuff." Sacha also traveled to Ireland, France, and Austria.  In order to produce her best work, Sacha humbly shared that she has endured one difficulty after another, but with the help and work of her family and friends, she was able to push through. Sacha believes that art trains people to focus on the details. She admits that she has grown to genuinely appreciate the sacrifices that her family has made in order to help make her dream a reality.

All art forms instruct the heart of the artist with patience, perseverance and respect for the Creator of all things beautiful. Her art studio is overflowing with masterpieces that broadcast her incredible talent. "Out of the Blue" has been completed and the original was recently sold and will be shipped to Kentucky. Prints of all her originals are available to purchase locally, or online. Her passion is felt in each art piece that hangs in homes around the globe. Early on, her dad's enthusiasm about serving God developed her passion to share God's love using art. "It is amazing to me that people who never noticed me before come to respect my words simply because the art I produce is highly recognized as good. It is my task to remain humble as I use this platform as an opportunity to witness how God blesses all who choose to serve Him.” She prays that God gives all those that look upon her art eyes to see, and ears to hear what the Spirit is saying. “I have found that the best way to share God with others is to share my personal testimony of how He changed my heart.” In 2019 Sacha attended her first art show in Scottsdale, Arizona. She had prepared for six months with prayer, hard work and was convinced that God would bless what He encouraged her to do. “It was a total shipwreck, I lost money and for the first time in my life I was in debt. There were no visible blessings and I came home so discouraged. While unpacking I also discovered that my original of 'Hidden Wonders' was severely damaged. My feelings overruled the Spirit in me as I questioned how God could let this happen. During the following six months God changed my heart forever. His Presence washed over me as I heard my Father say ‘Trust Me’."   On the morning she decided to tackle repairing the damaged painting 'Hidden Wonders',

all scratches had miraculously disappeared.  God does work in mysterious ways! “acknowledge the God of your father, and serve Him with wholehearted devotion and with a willing mind, for the LORD searches every heart and understands every desire and every thought. If you seek Him, He will be found by you; but if you forsake Him, He will reject you forever." 1 Chron 28:9 Before this astonishing miracle, Sacha's faith had increased and her renewed zeal encouraged her to now pray more specifically as she paints. All things are possible for those who place their trust in God! “I will extol the LORD at all times; His praise will always be on my lips. I will glory in the LORD; let the afflicted hear and rejoice. Glorify the LORD with me; let us exalt His name together. I sought the LORD, and he answered me; He delivered me from all my fears. Those who look to Him are radiant; their faces are never covered with shame. This poor man called, and the LORD heard him; he saved him out of all his troubles. The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear Him, and He delivers them. Taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in Him. Fear the LORD, you His holy people, for those who fear Him lack nothing. ” Psalm 34:1-9 - Sacha is a member of the Society of Arts, Ajijic, Mexico. She has given classes on acrylic pouring and is currently creating an instructional video series on her YouTube channel. One of her goals is to live up to the meaning of her name 'helper of mankind'. Sacha hosted her first Equine Art and Tea Party on December 14, 2019. It was attended by both art and horse aficionados. Local people marveled at her passion filled talent and she personally baked all the delightful pastries.  Her mother and father both were engaged in this wildly successful event!  Sacha's art has been sold at various charity events to benefit horse rescues in the USA. Click to view what is currently available Pharris Horse Art

Patricia Carey

Patricia Ann Carey is a gift to the people of Mexico. This retired nurse moved to Chapala to help the less fortunate by sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ and by opening a FREE Consultario in San Nicolas de Ibarra. Patricia was born on October 29, 1949 in Chicago, Illinois. As an only child Patricia was close to her father William. Her mother Angeline was a highly educated woman that suffered with mental illness. Angeline was involved in the occult, unstable and at times violent.  When Patricia was three years old her parents divorced and in 1966 when Patricia was only 16 her father died of lung cancer. Patricia attended high school in a suburb of Chicago and in 1967 she studied at Western Illinois University.  On a blind date while in college she met her future husband Antonio Cardona who was born in Cochabamba, Bolivia.  They dated for a year and married in 1969 when Patricia was 19. Her Latino husband had a volatile temper which led to much physical and emotional abuse. Before their first year of marriage she discovered that Antonio was unfaithful. The young couple moved to Bolivia and their first son was born in February 1971.  While living in Cochabamba, Bolivia - Patricia had no idea of God --- or His plans for her. After Antonio had heightened angry encounters with his family they left Bolivia when their son Ernesto was just 6 weeks old. In April 1971 this young family moved back to Colorado to live with Patricia’s step mother Gracie.  In shame, Patricia hid her physical abuse and pretended for 16 years that everything was okay in her turbulent marriage.  Eventually Antonio acquired a job teaching in Chicago and so they moved back to Illinois.  Two more children were added to the family while in Chicago; Cynthia was born in 1974 and Daniel in 1981. Patricia always wanted to become a registered nurse so in 1984 she attended school part-time to become an RN.   After being severely beaten, this desperate mother moved into a Women’s Shelter with her three kids.  A social worker at the shelter asked her some deeply penetrating questions. “How long will you accept this abuse in front of your children?” 

In 1985 Patricia filed for divorce and Antonio moved out. For three years she received zero financial support from her ex-husband.  Patricia held a part time job at a local hospital working from midnight to 8:00 AM.  After struggling for three years to support her family, the Judge ordered Antonio to ‘quit claim’ the mortgage over to Patricia and pay child support until the children were age 18.  As a single working mom for the next seven years, Patricia worked part time for six of those hard years attending night school to obtain a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).  After dating for one year, in 1992 when her son Ernesto was age 21, her daughter Cynthia was 18 and youngest Daniel was 11 years old, Patricia married David J. Wisdom, a construction worker.  Patricia admits that after years of secular counseling, she was woefully immature, self-absorbed, emotionally scarred, and spiritually ill prepared to handle marriage to another bitter man filled with hate towards his mother.  She felt invisible and rejected by a husband who would remain silent at dinner.  In 1997 Patricia began finding the counterfeit comfort of drinking until she was numb.  David filed for a divorce in 1999. Patricia did not want the divorce, she wanted to work things out. With all her kids out of the house, the day that husband David announced “I do not love you anymore” Patricia began to drink more heavily throughout the ensuing three year court battle. God intervened by sending a neighbor who invited Patricia to church. In November of 1999 Patricia accepted Jesus as her Lord and was baptized in December of 1999. She attended Christ Community Church four days a week and soaked up all that the Spirit of God was teaching her.

In July of 2000 Patricia took a short term mission trip to Mexico. During that trip Patricia was called to share Jesus with the poor of Mexico. She returned home where she was working as a Nurse Case Manager in the Chicago area. Patricia continued to grow in Christ as she studied the Bible and attended seminars. In 2001 she went on a mission trip to Mexico City with Campus Crusade in Christ. Back in Chicago she volunteered at church and led Bible Studies for women.  For the next 13 years Patricia served at church and longed for more.  Seeking more depth, Patricia left her original church and joined a local Baptist Church and was asked to be on the Mission Committee.  For three years Patricia learned how missions were funded and she also volunteered at a Christian Medical Clinic in the Chicago area.  Sometime within 2015 she was made aware that her kids did not understand her heart for Jesus or her hope to serve in the mission field.  Not wanting to hurt those she loved, Patricia humbled herself before the Lord asking Him for direction. Her Spirit was directed to study “Spiritual Warfare”. Obediently, in 2016 Patricia enrolled in a deep study which led her into personal deliverance from her fear of rejection, alcohol abuse, and her unforgiveness towards those who had hurt her. She was supernaturally delivered from past baggage and her friend Laura planted the seed for Patricia to start a Christian Medical Clinic in Mexico. Paul wrote to the people in Corinth "My speech and my proclamation were not with persuasive words of wisdom but with a powerful demonstration by the Spirit, so that your faith might NOT be based on men's wisdom but on God's power." 1 Corin 2:5 - Patricia chose to trust in God, not in man's wisdom. 

Patricia was discouraged by a few church members and even a Pastor. She was told NOT to expect that God would provide the resources necessary to accomplish such a vision in Mexico. Our Father responded to her naysayers by sending Patricia an older lady from Bolivia!  God is so faithful, He sent a woman from the very town Patricia once lived as a frightened, immature wife so long ago!  In 2016 Patricia met Blanca Mustafa, a Godly woman from Cochabamba, Bolivia.  God personally sent Blanca who immediately recognized Patricia's willing, servants heart. Believing in God's power, purpose and provision, Blanca encouraged;  “Patricia, God chose and equipped you with the perfect experiences to open a Christian Medical Clinic in Chapala, Mexico.”  It is true that what the devil intends for harm, God turns around and uses it for His glory!  Patricia retired early in 2013 to prepare to move to Chapala, Jalisco. She sold her house in Chicago and hired a company to sell the contents. Patricia arrived in Mexico on December 5, 2017 with five suitcases and a strong faith in the vision God had given her. All her worldly possessions were stolen and her faith in God as her sole provider intensified! She enrolled in Spanish lessons and Bible Studies immediately. On any given weekend you will find Patricia walking the Chapala malecon handing out tracks.  She is a volunteer at Love in Action, a local orphanage. Patricia has financially and spiritually supported a few of these abused girls through school. Patricia wrote a program approved by the LIA Director entitled “Who You Are in Christ”. She uses the program to teach two girls at a time during the week and then they cook and pray together.

“These young girls need to be prepared to lean on God, not man when they are forced to leave the sanctuary of support they get at Love in Action.”  Trusting in God alone, Patricia has never had to ask for money to fund her work. Working as a volunteer at the local hospital in San Antonio,  Patricia has made valuable connections. In January 2020 by the grace and many mercies provided by God, the perfect location for “Mision Posible” a Christian Free Medical Clinic was rented and renovated to fit the needs of the under privileged around Lake Chapala!  When God opens a door, Patricia strides with a confident smile right through it! With the 2020 Pandemic of Fear crippling the economy in Mexico and around the world, Patricia kept the Consultario open until August 2023. We make our plans and our gracious Father modifies them as He sees fit.  Patricia is constantly weeping in humility for all that our Lord has provided. She draws tremendous strength from the saints that have gone before her.  These are a few of the Scriptures that keep Patricia’s faith on fire.

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding;  in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.”  Proverbs 3:5-6  “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast.” Ephesians 2:8-9 “if My people, who are called by My name, will humble themselves and pray and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.” 2 Chronicles 7:14 The life of George Mueller has inspired Patricia to trust God in all trials! "Love must be without hypocrisy....be persistent in prayer...Rejoice with those who rejoice; weep with those who weep.  Do not be proud, instead associate with the humble." Romans 12:1-16 Pat's beloved Mamita went home to Jesus on July 27, 2020. Patricia Carey email:  Pat.wisdom@sbcglobal.net

Miriam Ruiz "Mia"

This amazing lady was born in New York on November 25, 1955 and she was raised in the Bronx.  I was absolutely fascinated to hear how God has used Mia's tenacious spirit to accomplish much. Her parents, Philip and Sylvia Fogel raised their daughter in the traditional Jewish ways. "I know that my heavenly Father has had His hand on me my entire life. While obediently attending services in the synagogue I never felt the Presence of God." Her family home was shared by her one brother Harry, and their grandmother Rose. Mia describes her grandmother as a sad, bitter woman who needed to control her environment. "Living at home with her constant gloom was no picnic." Mia further explained "Grandma Rose was emotionally unavailable and lived as a tormented woman because of her inability to forget. You see my grandma's Jewish parents were exterminated in the Poland death camps." With very little emotional or financial support, very early on, Mia chose to not judge people. Mia relied on God and trusted in His guidance, provision and strength. "Do not judge, or you too will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you." Matthew 7:1  While in high school Mia began to study French and eventually excelled so greatly that she won a scholarship. She enrolled at Montclair State College in New Jersey to major in French and then felt led to get her teaching credentials. While in school, at the age of 19 she married outside the Jewish faith to a wonderful Mexican man named Amado, which means loved one. Amado lavished Mia with love and together they had three sons. Rick now age 40, Ron now age 37 and Matt age 36.  After Mia's three kids were born she returned to school and got her teaching degree.  Her first job as a bilingual teacher was in New Jersey. "Eventually I was recruited

by a hospital in Texas to be the Director of Education. The hospital became my laboratory. While in Houston, for three years  I experimented and used various programs I developed for the nurses, and doctors. While running the Wellness Center, I also hosted a radio talk show called "Get Healthy". Well the economy tanked in 1985 and Mia and family moved to Florida. Her husband worked in construction and Mia worked briefly at a Teaching Institute in Orlando.  God then opened the door to Disney where Mia was hired to teach motivational seminars on customer service. "One day a satisfied client suggested that I go out on my own, so I did and my company was simply called Mia Consulting.  I had a blast traveling all across the USA and Canada until my husband got sick in 2000. My mission was then to take care of him. I took a job as the Director of the Learning Center of Jacksonville and took care of Amado until he died in 2003. It was during this time that I began to attend the non-denominational Beit Israel Messianic Temple. "I felt the Presence and love of God there. During a Passover, Seder service, as I listened to the Rabbi speak about Yeshua, the Lord revealed that His Way was a path of unity, not separation. For the first time I understood the Oneness, and the unconditional love of Jesus for all people." In January of 2016, after 35 years of teaching and raising three sons it was time to retire. But where? With a mixed response of 'go for it' and 'apprehension' from her boys, Mia chose to move to Mexico. Mia felt God's nudge and encouragement so she packed up her green chevy which she named 'Sparky'.  Mia tried living in Mazatlan then Puerto Vallarta before she finally

nested in Ajijic.  "I have always felt divinely guided."  Early in 2017 Mia began feeling short of breath. Under Medicare she drove back to Texas where the Cardiologist reported that she needed open heart surgery to replace a valve. With her bold faith Mia told the doctor "I'm going back to Mexico for 6 months and I will call you if I need you!" On the way home she prayed "God I need You to show me what to do."  Mia tells that she heard a voice say 'chelation'. Long story short she finds a clinic in Guadalajara named La Vida Sana (healthy life) and over a period of 3 months she received 12 chelation treatments. Before the cost of chelation, Mia had placed a deposit towards a trip to Israel scheduled for October 2018.  Determined and full of faith, in August 2018 Mia drives back to Baylor where she gets the good news "You do not need surgery!"  Mia also shared that during this valley she clung to Psalm 23. "He gave me new strength."  It was August 8, 2018, which was the deadline to make the final payment for the Israel tour.  She was driving back from Texas and praying "Lord if it is Your will that I go to Israel, then You have got to find a way for me to go." Mia was hungry, broke and exhausted when she climbed into bed. The next day she gets a call from Priscilla. "A lovely couple here in Ajijic have paid the balance owed on your trip to Israel." With tears in her eyes Mia shared "God had demonstrated His faithfulness so many times in my life. When I got that call I just sat there shaking, totally overcome by His love!" Over her lifetime, this beautiful lady has generously given through her gift of teaching. Mia has lived this promise "For if you give, you will get! Your gift will return to you in full and overflowing measure, pressed down, shaken together to make room for more, and running over. Whatever measure you use to give-large or small- will be used to measure what is given back to you." Luke 6:38 - This Jewel will walk with Jesus in Israel!