The Costa Mesa Spanish congregation’s joy at paying off the church mortgage was only heightened by recalling the past 12 years of struggle and sacrifice. During a three-hour dedication service on June 3, Pastor Ernesto Alonso presented 40 plaques of appreciation and told moving personal stories.

“We don’t have members who can give big donations,” he said. The triumphal hour was possible only because so many “regular people” kept doing all they could for so long.

Faith and Works

Some who clean homes for a livelihood prayed for extra jobs each year. One member saved a long time to return to her home country and visit her family; she gave it all up for the church building fund. A man in his late 70s prayed for opportunities to do welding projects and earn money. Still another person earned cash by faithfully collecting cans and bottles to recycle. Some families promised to give $1,000 a year not knowing where it would come from but, with God’s help, made good on the pledges.

“I rejoice with you that, through your faith, hard work and God’s blessing, you have achieved this goal,” said Tom Staples, SECC treasurer. “Congratulations!”

The Spanish group in Costa Mesa first began meeting in 1981 with 29 members. Four years later, Antonio Romero became the first full-time pastor. Through the joint efforts of Pastor Luis Leon and evangelist Kenneth Cox, another 60 joined the group and the conference recognized it as an official church in 1988.

Built as a synagogue and school, the current buildings were first listed for $1.2 million, way out of reach for the congregation. In time, the sellers reduced the price somewhat. Finally, in 1994, Pastor Donald Cameron negotiated a price of $650,000. “It’s hard to remember a time when prices were falling instead of rising,” commented Staples. At this point, the congregation committed itself to a 12-year payment plan.

Alonso, who became pastor in 1998, has challenged and guided the congregation for eight years. Today, membership stands at 285. Besides the United States, members come from Argentina, Colombia, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico and Peru. He added, “Together we dedicate this edifice and our ministry to the glory of God.”