Volume 5, Issue 2
Volume 5, Issue 2
Prologue
Praise the Lord!
Welcome to this year’s second issue of The Messenger.In a world often consumed by confusion, distraction, and spiritual drought, God is raising up a generation that is deeply rooted—not in trends or tradition—but in His Word, His mission, and His Spirit. The stories and reflections shared in this issue are more than articles; they are evidence of a movement. A movement of young people who are not just standing firm in their faith but stepping boldly into action.
Each contribution you are about to read gives us a glimpse of what it means to be Rooted in Action:
- In “Rooted in Revival: Testifying to Light the Way,” District MOP President Kevin Gonzalez reminds us of the transforming power of testimony, and how the unity birthed through personal stories can spark revival and healing within our local churches and youth groups.
- In “Rooted in the Mission: The Goal to Win a Soul,”Jonathan Ramirez challenges us to reexamine the purpose behind our events and gatherings—calling us back to the original mission: to reach the lost. His practical insight and personal transparency equip every reader to become a soul-winner right where they are.
- In “Rooted in the King’s Calling,”Darrick Marquez draws us into the urgency and global reach of the Gospel. From street corners in the Dominican Republic to city streets in Portugal, he shares firsthand how being rooted in Christ leads us into divine encounters that change lives forever.
- And Finally, in “Rooted to Build, Called To Serve” Caleb Cortez reminds us that Youth ministry is a sacred calling that goes beyond events and Bible studies; it’s about walking with young people through the highs and lows of their faith journey. Through small groups, discipleship, and authentic leadership, lives are being transformed and a culture of spiritual growth is being cultivated. Though the seasons vary and challenges arise, the mission remains clear: to serve, build, and point the next generation to Jesus.
Together, these voices form a call to action. A reminder that we are lighthouses in a dark world, planted on the Rock, shining not our own light—but His. This is our time to rise. To testify. To disciple. To evangelize. To be rooted— and to move.
Joel Orellana
Editor-In-Chief,
The Messenger Magazine
Rooted in The King’s Calling
by Darrick Marquez
We are living this dynamic today. The king is sending forth servants who are rooted in Him to bring to him the lost, and to seek and save whomever is willing. The king is ready to send forth laborers but he is also ready to save sinners. The only reason we can be rooted in action is because we serve a God who is alive, active, and working continually across the entire world.
Rooted to Build, Called to Serve
by Caleb Cortez
Working with my youth group has deeply impacted me in ways I never expected. It’s more than just leading Bible studies or organizing events—it’s about walking alongside young people during some of the most developing years of their lives. The words of the Apostle Peter, “I am a living stone,” have become a mental anchor for me. Stay solid, stay secure, and be useful in the building process.
Rooted in the Mission: The Goal to Win A Soul
by Jonathan Ramirez
We often look at events like NYA, AA convention, or youth camps as eye-opening experiences. We tend to see high levels of media production, amazing musicians, and anointed preachers that turn empty venues into atmospheres where lives are transformed. I would like to ask ourselves a question. “Can our local youth groups really create events that move a community into giving their life for Jesus? When I asked myself these questions while starting my walk in youth leadership, I wanted to learn how to start making my own events at the local level.
Rooted in Revival: Testifying to Light the Way
by Kevin Gonzalez
It is crucial for us to boldly shine the light of Jesus, in a dark world that is crooked and perverse; to not be shy about sharing the gospel or keep silent of what God has done in our lives and what He can do in theirs. A lighthouse guides and is unwavering, built and rooted on the rock-for us that Rock is Jesus Christ.
The Messenger Team
Editor-in-Chief
Joel Orellana
North Central California District
Web Editor
Michael Cota
South Central District of California