Friends and Family,

Thank you so much for your faithful support of Lonnie and myself in our efforts through Baja Compassion Ministries to serve the deaf in Mexico and the orphans in Honduras. Many of you have supported us since 1997 when Lonnie or I worked individually with Rancho Sordo Mudo, . . . wow.  That’s been a while! 

In 2003 we felt moved to start our non-profit ministry Baja Compassion Ministries, Inc. (BCM) At that time we payed our accountant to file the necessary paper work required for our non-profit.  We were told we could operate while we waited for our non-profit ID# from the government.  Year after year passed and we were assured again and again things were slowly moving forward.  Unfortunately it has come to our attention that the proper papers where never filed.  In essence B.C.M. has not received our non-for-profit entity status.  We are not able to provide BCM donors with a tax deductible receipt.

This breaks our hearts to say we are closing down all activities financial & otherwise under the entity of Baja Compassion Ministries.  However, Lonnie and I will continue to personally be involved in ministry and missions, doing as the Lord leads.

Should you so chose, you can continue to send support to Pastor Carlos and or Gaby Suarez directly yourselves the same way we have.  We’ve used a Wells Fargo service called “Express Send” and anyone with an account with WF can set this up.  There is a $5 to $6 dollar charge each time we use the service but typically by the next day Pastor Carlos or Gaby are able to go to a local bank and pick up the full amount of the funds with no charge to them.

Also, you can still send support for Pastor Carlos and/or Gaby Suarez to 

Angels of Love, Inc

c/o Robert Ordway

P.O. BOX 121754

Chula Vista, CA  91912

We apologize for any inconvenience.  And if you’d like more detail or have any questions, please call Lonnie at 530 414-6693.

Yours in Christ,

Michelle Pfingston

May Newsletter

Baja Compassion Doings

Church for the Deaf

Mexican sign language (LSM) is different than American sign language (ASL) - you knew that right? Pastor Carlos has finished teaching Galatians and is starting in Jonah.  He purchased DVD with Jonah in LSM to pass out to his congregation.  When you consider that many have difficulty reading (Spanish is their second language, after all) if they know how to read at all - you can see what a blessing this is!

Carlos with Presidential Candidate 

Proverbs 31:8-9 tells us to 

“Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves,

    for the rights of all who are destitute.

Speak up and judge fairly;

    defend the rights of the poor and needy.” 

Pastor Carlos has been following this command for many years now, taking an active interest in rights for the deaf.  Recently he was able to stand up with the Mexican presidential candidate, Kiko Vega, for the deaf community!

Lonnie in Mexico and Honduras

We recently were blessed with a productive trip from a trip to Tijuana, Mexico where we built a staircase and furthered the construction on the Disciples House at Paul Alvarado’s (with Spectrum MInistries) residence. Currently we are planning a trip to Santa Barbara, Honduras in June/July of this year.  Our plan is to help teach the older Orphans construction skills while leading  the visiting work group with their projects.  Please help us pray for the funding for this trip.

Baja Compassion Families

Pastor Carlos’s family ask for prayer about moving from their current home to something smaller, and if it is God’s will that He provide the finances for it.

Gaby has taken on the children’s ministry at the partnering hearing church - a huge responsibility. Nevertheless she continues to be a key interpreter and interprets for worship. services. 

 Also she asks for prayer for her next planned  mission trip to Cuba (January). She needs to raise $1500 dollars..  And she is trusting God to do so.

We, Pfingstons continue our behind the scenes work supporting Pastor Carlos - being facilitators to their service. while watching ways to minister at any opportunity.

From Gaby

Cuba

In the mists of prepairations for the mission trip to Cuba, and wonderously God has surprised me in this adventure! Of the total amount needed for me to go, I’m halfway to the goal! 

I'm super excited to see, as time goes by, my appeal to this trip. Thank you to all who in one way or another (prayers and financial support) have been helping me on this journey. If you have not heard of the vision for this trip, send me your email and I will get you more information. 

Allow me to remind you the trip is January 17-28, so that you can cover us in prayer during our stay and continue to cover us clear through our preparation for departure. 

  

Something that fills me with great joy is just to see the blessings of our Heavenly Father for the trip and for our lives. He is seen as the Deaf ministry grows, and as people are willing to support us. Jose Michel has in the last couple of years supported the ministry in videography. He records videos of the signed class and songs of praise in LSM. But last month God talked to him about serving the Deaf in full time ministry! So he left his job he had in Tijuana and moved back to Ensenada to follow His call and be obedient to Him. 

This is God’s answer to the prayers of my brother Charles to have an assistant and/or a male interpreter and who better than Jose Michel! He continues to support our video and interpreting needs. Although he does not feel 100% in his signing, that little seed with the desire to serve our God is bearing fruit in his life as in others. We hope patiently to keep seeing more people like  Jose to serve as volunteer in the deaf community and to continue reaching the lost in this area and to be discipled. If you have the desire to be part of this ministry as well, but do not know how to help because you may not know sign language, I encourage you to support our ministry through your prayers and financial support for both Carlos Suarez ( Pastor), Jose Michel (video manager and assistant to Carlos) or me (in charge of Deaf women’s ministry and Bible study).

  

And because God's mission is to reach all who are lost for them to  have eternal life and discover the wonders of God, Bible studies are necessary for both women and men. The goal is to grow and be able to respond to those human doubts they have. Pray for them to rekindle that fire in them; rekindle a fire to be fill with more of Him and less of the world, to see that the best weapon to overcome obstacles and problems of life is Jesus and not the things that normally the world offers. Pray our church set aside what hinders them and/or bothers so they receive His teachings. By this I mean to put aside the problems between them, and through His love can forgive one another.  That they fix their eyes on Jesus and not on those who have hurt them. 

Carlos and his kids Leilani and Jerimias

It may be that I am the least qualified person to do this, given my past; but because of that, I know the value of time spent in His presence/Word every day, that is why I urge you to support me in prayers.  Lets lift up this group of people who sometimes feel isolated by simply not being able to hear. Pray they wake up to the truth, and they can understand through His Holy Spirit, because He made them so special! May they not say “I'm still young, perhaps later” or “I will be ignored because I am deaf" -

-NO! They also are suitable for our Father’s gifts as any of us! You and I have the gift of encouragement through our prayers. And for those that have been causing dissension? May they be rebuked by His Word and allow that their spiritual eyes be opened to see their mistakes.

Obedience

For those who learned via Facebook that it had obtained a new job, this is short story.

   The day I inquired about working in the church Daycare they rushed to respond to me. I was concerned that I couldn’t take the job unless my daughter was accepted too.   After a few minutes I heard God said “Ask Me! .. And I ignore it. Hanging up the phone I said “This may be rushing you, Father, but come Monday, when I go to the interview, if you show me that work is for me -have them accept my daughter as well.” I went to the interview and it went very well!. I thought this was a doors God had opened for me and it pleased me very much, and I was very excited. 

My mistake ... ignoring that small voice that said “ask Me!”. God showed me otherwise, that this was not the place he had called me to.  He showed me I basically had the three ministries where I was to focus and care for; my daughter, my brother Carlos’s family and the Deaf ministry ( plus this trip to Cuba). For four days on the job I had no peace and God showed me in different ways that I had to leave. When I decided to quit and walk in obedience .... man! a great peace came over my life and that was a confirmation that I had been wrong about work. I was reminded to not  worry about anything that involving money, for He has been supplying everything for me since I turned to Him, and since I had my daughter in my belly He has given us even more! It is better to walk in obedience than not.... and in  a week ... pum! God surprises me with a tremendous amount of $! 

I never expected it and I had no idea He would do such a thing, then someone reminded me “this is the result, Gaby, of your obedience to follow the voice of Papi”. So friends and family, I encourage you to follow God, hear His call whatever it may be and do not fear because our Papa God gives everything and never forsakes us in ANYTHING (both materially, in the sentimental and spiritual ) Jeremiah 3 33.

PRAYER:

Margarita (center) returns to us after a stroke!

Suarez's family: that God will continue to guard and guide in our spiritual battle we face daily. Especially for children who have been attacked in one way or another in their lives with fear, illness and lies.

Also, Pray for Margarita who, since two months ago, we’ve had with us again after a seveir stroke. Pray God continues to heal her.

And the other petitions mentioned above.

Finally!

Praise report!

I asked you to pray for our deaf women's Bible study  and God heard!~

Here are a couple of photos of those that went to study. And according them, there were others who wanted to go but didn't make it; they were not Christian. And there is a new unbeliever attendee: Anna,  sitting next to Evangelina.

Thanks for the prayers! .. Praise the Lord!

Fransis, Evangelina, Anna, Gaby, Blanca, Vi

From Gaby's Heart

Prayer Request:


Pray for this Thursday (March 1),  after so long not having women's Bible study for the deaf, we will be starting again, and in this case Nancy and Francis are very excited about it, they even went to church and possibly Blanca would come. That would be super!   ; D

Nancy and Francis at the retreat

Blanca

The Deaf Women's retreat 2012

So we had all we could accommodate on our women's retreat! Every one in all stages of walk with Jesus.  We even had one lady who up to this time was a Jehovah Witness, another was attending JW meetings even though she knew the Truth.  

It was relaxed, fun and Michelle Bonsell spoke of "Dressing for Success"; first speaking of putting on the full armor of God (Ephesians 6), then talking of clothing yourselves in humility and love (Colosions 3:12) and finally just a good needed talk of modesty . . . :-)

A refreshing time, a renewing time, a BLESSED time.

Thank you all who made it possible with your support, donations and prayers!

From Gaby's Heart

Gossip is a stronghold.  It’s been exhausting hearing a whole bunch of “he said” “she said” . . . 

But it broke my heart when I found out that because of gossip a dear lady was not coming to church.  She is too embarrassed to face those that were accusing her. 

And she came to deaf women’s Bible study on Saturday!  She was excited and so moved by the study that she was in tears.  She promised she’d be there Sunday.

She was a student of mine at Rancho Sordo Mudo, the school for deaf.  I’ve seen her love for God, her true devotion.

She knows Jesus, even if lately she hasn’t been walking in obedience.  I *know* Jesus is waiting for her to return to Him; lovingly, patiently.

It is satan’s plan to keep her from church. PRAY!

Growth and Plans in the Deaf Church

Michelle Bonsell and her husband

We have plans for a deaf women’s retreat to happen in February.  But we don’t have much set yet.  We’ve invited a friend and former Rancho Sordo Mudo co-worker, Michelle Bonsell, to come and speak.  A request from the deaf ladies themselves.  She was dorm mother to several of the young ladies and is now working at another school for deaf in Los Mochis, Mexico with her husband and family. 

We have yet to book the place, or fund it, but with faith, we make our plans.  So we could use prayer, God’s anointing on the plans.  That God provides for this and that the women come, be ministered to, leave blessed and ready to bless others. 

  

Ensenada deaf congregation

at church

Carlos continues to teach with God given authority, and the congregation continues to grow.  We’ve had to move from the small meeting room to a much larger one in order to fit everyone.  And that is a good thing. Nevertheless, satan fights the growth, and people are people whether hearing or deaf.


So we have interpersonal problems/situation just like any other church that is made up of  people.  With that in mind please pray for a situation that involves hurt, feelings of betrayal, blame, and accusations. Pray that justice and healing happen among our community.

Pastor Carlos sharing his testimony with the hearing congregation

Take Note~

We have a  new address for correspondence and to continue to support Carlos and/or Gaby Suarez. 

Make checks out to 

                                   

Baja Compassion Ministry

1000 Lake Davis Rd

Portola, CA 96122

All gifts are tax deductible.  If you have a specific person you wish to give to, please make a note of that in the memo.  Thank you.

Important update for you, our supporters.

THE PFINGSTONS WILL BE MOVING SOON! 

With much prayer and consideration we are moving our home base to a small town in northern California. Though this will signify a reduced roll for us Pfingstons, Baja Compassion will continue on.         

As God provides, the Pfingstons will make trips down into Baja California for hands on ministry; signing, helping, building and counseling. From our new location we will continue organizing retreats, and other administrative tasks, inline with the ministry and vision as

God leads.

PASTOR CARLOS SUAREZ CONTINUES IN ENSENADA

The deaf church and ministry continues to thrive under the care of Pastor Carlos in Ensenada, Mexico. Pastor Carlos will continue to work under the umbrella of Baja Compassion.

The Pfingstons are moving mostly due to Lonnie’s medical needs and insurance requirements.

You have been faithful in supporting the Pfingston family through Baja Compassion Ministry and we are extremely grateful! There is no way we could do this without you!

While we do not expect you to continue support for us, should you feel led to give elsewhere, we would like to reassure you that your donations will continue to be applied directly to the ongoing ministry of Baja Compassion in Mexico

Baja Compassion Ministries, from our new home base, will continue as a means for Pastor Carlos to receive financial support, and all donations to Baja Compassion are still tax deductible.

Our new corresponding address is:

Baja Compassion Ministries 1000 Lake Davis Rd Portola, CA 96122

Since the beginning of Baja Compassion Ministries our vision has aways been not only to interpret for the deaf - but to bring the deaf of Baja California into a fuller life in Jesus. An abundant life - rich in His blessing.

Through the years you’ve helped us reach and love the deaf of Ensenada. Now in this time of transition, we are excited for the ministry that is still to come!

We are so THANKFUL for all you! Blessings on you!

Sunday service for the deaf Sep 26th

I'm starting to use some TECHNOLOGY! . . .

it's my first time taking my laptop and recording Pastor Carlos - it's all in Mexican Sign Language.  But I hope to be able to record and upload a higher quality video.

The deaf church has really been growing.  They have moved from the little room they gathered in to the larger double sized room.

Also - Praise the Lord - Deaf Ministries Worldwide gifted Pastor Carlos with a new laptop and projector!  That is what he is using in this teaching - it's WONDERFUL!

And if you do watch this video - I hope you see what we've been seeing - Pastor Carlos more at ease preaching.  It's been a long road here - where before he seemed to not have his footing, now you see a confidant and sure pastor!  It's wonderful to see.

I know it's because of the prayer support he receives -

Wanna support mission, eh?

• 
  
  
  
  This young lady and her family have been a huge help with the deaf church that meets at Calvary Chapel Horizonte, when I heard she was going on her first missions trip to CUBA! I became excited to do what we could to help.  So let me share her letter:
  
  
  

  Hi my name in Nora Michel and I've been serving the lord for over two years. I decided to dedicate my life to Jesus and that's why I joined the Missions Ministry of Calvary Chapel Horizonte Ensenada. I received His call about a one year ago and since then I've been participating in various local missions’ events.

  
  

  Today, God has opened the door to be part of a missions’ trip to Cuba in July!

  The group will be in Cuba to support Calvary Chapel Havana & serve with the youth, children & women of the church and the area it serves. There are plans for a youth conference in Diezmero, several women's conferences in Havana and in the countryside as well as a children's summer program.

  
  

  The group heading to Cuba consists of my friend Holly, our missions’ leader Lety and her daughter Monica and Tania Domingo, our Pastor's wife who will be blessing the Cuban ladies with several women's conferences.

  As a team I know we will be truly blessed by the Lord and the plans He has for us and for the people of Cuba.

  

  
  

  Our trip begins on July 21st where we fly from Tijuana to Mexico City for a 2 day Pastor's conference. On the 24th we fly from Mexico City to Havana. The plans are to spend time in the countryside of Camajuani to join the Calvary Chapel Downey Missions team and bless the people with Youth & Women's conference and then head back to Havana and spend a week with Calvary Chapel Havana serving and blessing them as well. On August 8th we fly back to Tijuana with a lifetime of memories & tremendous growth in the Lord.

  
  

  I'd love to have your support in constant prayer! And if you desire to support financially, I'd appreciate your donation (:

  
  

  *Make all checks payable to:

  Horizonte Ministries

  PO Box 1199

  Bonita CA 91908

  
  

  * All financial support is tax deductible.

  * In memo section of check, please write: Nora Michel - CUBA MISSION 2011.

  
  

  *Or you can find me in Calvary Chapel Horizonte!

  
  

  Thank you for considering joining me in support for this trip for God's Kingdom.

Carlos Suarez trip to Ciudad Juarez

If you'd like to see more pictures from Pastor Carlos's trip to Ciudad Juarez, Chihuahua Mexico for the pastor conference and to follow Pastor Carlos on Facebook Click Here

Pictures from Honduras

Lonnie will add commentary to these pictures as soon as I can pin him down . . . 

Ciudad Juarez and the Deaf

The town was Ciudad Juarez, Chihuahua Mexico and it just happens to be among the worst affected parts of Mexico’s drug-related violence. 

It also happens to be a place where the Deaf Pastor and Leaders Conference was being held.

After His wife passed away, leaving him with his two small children, Pastor Carlos seemed to be just keeping his head above water.  But in this last year we are seeing him really get his footing.  He is finding a maturity as a Pastor that is encouraging to see.

This conference was the first of it’s kind that he was able to attend in his history of being a Pastor.

You know how many other deaf pastors showed up? 

None.  Zip. Zero.

Just Pastor Carlos and the hosting Deaf Pastor and his church.  Be it for fear or for distance - because really - how many deaf Pastors are there in all of Mexico? NOT ENOUGH!   

But this translated into an intense meeting between God and Carlos, for a time of refreshment and edification

PRAISE GOD!  He needed it!

And he has returned. Safe and sound, and recharged.  It was a blessing! 

And THANK YOU to all those that helped him afford the opportunity! 

HE IS BACK~

After to Haiti - Lonnie tells me - Honduras is the poorest country in the world.

Lonnie has returned from Honduras!  Lonnie is well and happy to be home, but quite moved by his experience there.

He tells me that of the groups that came down while there, he knew the most spanish, so his spanish being as it may - he was the interpreter . . . .

His high school spanish teacher would be proud.

He did a lot of traveling in taxicabs as he was often sent out to find this part or other to build the orphanage - and Lonnie used that captive audience to share Jesus. 

He says that the people's hearts are open to hearing.  He doesn't know if anyone accepted Jesus as their savior, but as he was building a home for kids - he was also planting seeds for the Kingdom!

Look what Lonnie's doing!

Here is a link to see the project Lonnie is working on in Honduras!

Bueno es alabar(LSM) ; Michelle Pfingston