Jose Briones – Greeley, Colorado … Juan Vasquez, a committed member of the Greeley Hispanic Seventh-day Adventist Church in Greeley, Colorado, shared his story of faith and transformation with the stewardship department recently.
Raised in an Adventist household, Juan’s early years were filled with church activities. He found himself drifting away for five years, however, choosing soccer over sermons. “I remember the church fondly,” Vasquez recalls, “the singing and potlucks, but I wanted something different.”
His path back to the church was gently guided by his wife, whose encouragement was pivotal. “She always believed in the importance of faith,” Vasquez admits. “Even when I stayed outside during service, she never gave up on me.” Over time, this encouragement turned into a profound spiritual pull that brought him back.
Juan describes this transformation as nothing short of an awakening. “There was a moment, a deep realization, where I felt a real connection with Christ. It changed everything,” he says. No longer did he attend out of obligation; his renewed faith became a driving force in his life: “I’m not here because I have to be, I’m here because I want to be.”
His dedication is particularly evident in his involvement with youth and family ministries. “Supporting young people and families feels like my calling,” Vasquez shares. His passion for these ministries stems from his personal journey and the belief in the importance of personal encounters with Christ.
In reflecting on his journey, Juan encourages others who may be on their own paths of faith, whether they find themselves currently inside or outside the church. “Everyone’s journey is unique,” he acknowledges, “but what remains constant is the power of a personal relationship with Christ. It’s not about where you are physically, but where you are spiritually.”
His story is not just one of return and redemption, it’s an ongoing testament to the continuous growth that faith can inspire. As he continues to serve passionately, Vasquez remains committed to fostering a welcoming and vibrant community within the church. “We all have a place here,” he concludes, “and my hope is for others to experience the same transformative love and purpose that I’ve found.” Watch Juan’s story below.
—Jose Briones is lead pastor at the Fairplay Seventh-day Adventist Church and is the RMC Stewardship Promotion and Content creator. Photo capture from RMC’s “Always Faithful” video series.
