06/09/2026
For years, the church had distributed turkeys in November to help families during Thanksgiving. But leadership noticed the outreach was no longer reaching as many people as before. Rather than continue with what felt familiar, the congregation chose to take a step of faith.
In 2025, they shifted their focus to a Christmas toy distribution called Un Regalo de Gracia (A Gift of Grace).
“Somos un grupo pequeño pero pensando hacer algo grande para Cristo,” Pastor Isaac Aviles said. “We are a small group, but we are thinking about doing something big for Christ.”
Un Regalo de Gracia was held outdoors at the church property to make it visible and welcoming to the surrounding community. Multiple stations were set up, including registration, food distribution, toy pickup and a Santa Claus photo area for families.
About 80 children were served during the event.
The outreach became a broader community effort as well. A local company donated two bicycles to raffle, adding to the celebration and reinforcing a shared commitment to help families in the area.
But the greatest impact was spiritual.
During the outreach and in a follow-up service that included a clear gospel presentation by Aviles, families were invited to respond. By the end of the event, about 36 individuals had made a profession of faith in Jesus Christ.
The church was quick to make those connections, and now new families are attending regular services, Aviles said.
For Aviles, the gospel impact confirmed the church’s decision to pivot. What began as a practical adjustment in outreach strategy became an opportunity for eternal transformation.
“We wanted to reach more people,” he said, “not just give something away, but connect with families.”
A small congregation chose to think big for Christ, and Phoenix felt the difference.
