by Bishop President Felipe Salazar

Praise the Lord Messengers of Peace!

In our ever-evolving world, where change is a constant and challenges abound, we need to anchor ourselves in unchanging principles. As members of the Apostolic Assembly, we have the privilege of being part of a church with a rich history, yet one that continues to adapt and grow. Today, I want to share some key insights that have shaped my vision for our beloved assembly and underscore the pivotal role that our young members, the Messengers of Peace, play in this journey.

At the heart of my vision is a profound truth: Jesus Christ is the ultimate builder of the Church. This concept has become central to my thinking. It leads us to the recognition that the growth and movement of the Church depend on the power of the Holy Spirit. While individuals certainly have roles to play, we must never forget that it is God’s involvement that leads to the Church’s growth.

Our mission is clear and unchanging: evangelism, discipleship, and small groups. Evangelism is vital for bringing new people into the Church and ensuring its numerical growth. It is how we fulfill the Great Commission that Jesus Christ very directly gave us when He said, “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, to the close of the age.” (Matthew 28:19-20) But it doesn’t stop with evangelism. Discipleship is what sustains and deepens the spiritual journey of every new and seasoned believer. It ensures the quality and spiritual growth of individuals within the Church. Finally, small groups provide a structure that the Church has relied on since the first century. Our small groups bring people together, foster opportunities for relationships to flourish, and allow for the work of evangelism and discipleship to take place in the most natural way.

But why is this vision relevant to you, our young members? Let’s delve into some key ideas that underscore your crucial role:

1. You Are the Future: As young members of the Apostolic Assembly, you play a pivotal role not just in the present but also in the future of our assembly. The torch of faith and responsibility is passing into your hands. You represent a significant portion of our membership, and your contributions will shape the trajectory of our church in the years to come. God’s plan for reaching the world extends beyond our current generation, and each new generation brings fresh energy, perspectives, and opportunities. You are central to carrying forward the legacy of faith and mission, ensuring that the Apostolic Assembly continues to thrive and make a meaningful impact on society.

2. Young Evangelists and Disciples: Recognize that your role as young members extends far beyond merely being the future leaders; you are the present leaders as well. You possess the potential to be active evangelists, passionate disciples, and influential leaders of small groups. Your unique life experiences, energy, and relatability can be powerful tools in sharing the message of Christ’s love. By embracing these roles, you contribute significantly to building the Kingdom of God here and now. You have the ability to inspire and lead your peers toward a deeper relationship with Christ.

3. Your Calling: Don’t compartmentalize your education or career pursuits as separate from your ministry. Instead, view them as opportunities for evangelism and discipleship within your educational institutions or workplaces. God’s calling is not confined to church walls; it permeates every aspect of your life. Your education and career provide unique platforms to be a light in a sometimes dark world. By integrating your faith into your everyday life, you can impact people in profound ways, sharing Christ’s love through your actions, words, and values.

4. Fulfillment and Purpose: Finding fulfillment and purpose in life comes from actively participating in the mission of the church and following Christ’s call. The pursuit of material success alone often leaves a void in one’s heart. However, when you actively engage in the Church’s mission of evangelism and discipleship, you discover a deeper sense of purpose and fulfillment. There’s a profound joy in knowing that your life is making a difference in the lives of others, that you are contributing to the expansion of God’s kingdom, and that you are living out the calling Christ has placed upon you.

5. Be the Change: Motivate yourselves to engage in the vision of evangelism and discipleship, and be the catalyst for change in your local church and wherever God leads you. Often, it’s easy to wait for someone else to take the lead, but true transformation begins with individuals who are willing to step up and lead by example. Don’t underestimate the power of your actions and initiatives. By embracing the vision of evangelism and discipleship, you can inspire others to do the same. Be proactive in organizing and leading efforts within your church and, when the opportunity arises, in your broader community. Embody the change you want to see, and in doing so, you’ll contribute to the growth and impact of the Apostolic Assembly.

It’s my belief that you can find purpose and fulfillment in evangelizing, disciplining, and participating in small groups. This is what normal apostolic Christianity looks like, and it’s the path to a fulfilling life.

Lastly, let me offer some practical guidance for our young Messengers of Peace:

1. Begin with Prayer: Seek God’s guidance, love for one another, and a burden for souls through prayer.

2. Inform Yourself: Read books, listen to podcasts, and educate yourselves about evangelism and matters close to God’s heart.

3. Engage with Your Pastor: Speak to your pastor about your passion for evangelism and inquire about strategies or opportunities within your local Church.

4. Take Initiative: If your Church doesn’t have specific strategies or groups for evangelism, consider organizing and leading initiatives, such as small groups focused on evangelism and discipleship.

5. Organize and Mobilize: Encourage young people to become active organizers within your Church, leading efforts to fulfill the mission of evangelism and discipleship.

6. Depend on the Holy Spirit: Recognize the need for the movement of the Holy Spirit in all your endeavors, and seek His guidance for greater effectiveness.

In closing, I want to express my prayers for each one of you. You hold the key to shaping the future of our Church. Learn, pray, and expect great things from God in these critical times. Remember, there is nothing more significant than following the calling of Jesus Christ in your life, regardless of your age.

May the peace of our Lord Jesus Christ guide your steps and illuminate your path as you continue to be messengers of His love, grace, and truth.

In His service,
Bishop President Felipe Salazar

Bishop Felipe A. Salazar is the current President of the Apostolic Assembly, serving from 2022 to 2026. Inspired by his father, a missionary and pastor, he was baptized in the Name of Jesus Christ in 1975 and ordained in 1984. Throughout his career, he held various roles, including Youth President and District Treasurer, before becoming Bishop Supervisor of the Los Angeles district. In 2014, he became the General Secretary of the Apostolic Assembly and later served as Vice President. He was elected as the twelfth President on November 26, 2022. Bishop Salazar and his wife, Rose, reside in Long Beach, California, and have four children and ten grandchildren.