Jay and Gladys Rios discovered CityReach Church Miramar Pines in Pembroke Pines, Florida when their pastors connected them with CITYREACH NETWORK. They attended a church planting training with other pastors and felt called to be a part of the new church. Since then, the Rios’ have been invaluable to the upcoming church plant, which will launch in September.
The Beginning
The desire to reach the one was sparked in Jay and Gladys many years ago. Both were raised in the church, but felt empty and began to question the “rules” mindset of the church they had been attending.
“One day I decided not to go anymore. I decided that I would pray at home instead,” Gladys said.
Then, a few months later, a neighbor invited the Rios’ to a different church for a special service. They attended and that day, in the fall of 1988, accepted Christ into their lives.
“We received Jesus as our Lord and Savior and we’ve never looked back.”Gladys Rios
Leading Up to the Launch
Fast forward to 2016. Today, Jay and Gladys are heavily involved in the groundwork leading up to the launch of CityReach Church Miramar Pines, which will take place on September 17, 2016. “We love serving in any capacity and could never not volunteer to do something for God’s Kingdom,” Gladys said.
Pastor Elizabeth Rios describes Jay and Gladys as “the pillars of the church.” At the very beginning of a plant, a core group of dedicated volunteers are crucial to the success of the church.
Serving in Many Capacities
Jay and Gladys understand the importance of the “behind the scenes” work and help with coordinating events, making phone calls, and cleaning the sanctuary where the group meets. “As volunteers, we do whatever is necessary,” Gladys said.
Jay and Gladys also help with the monthly breakfast for people experiencing homelessness in their community. The pair helps to prepare the food, bring it to the center, set up for the meal, and serve the food. During and after the meal, they spend time getting to know people and praying for their needs.
The church will launch on September 17, 2016, along with over 30 other CityReach church plants. With a specialty in cluster planting, CITY REACH NETWORK plants several churches in different cities on the same day.
“We’re excited to see how God is going to change lives!”Gladys Rios
To find out more about CityReach Church Miramar Pines, click here:
