On Saturday, August 2nd, House of the Gospel Church in Fresno hosted an exciting Back-to-School event—not only for our children, but for our entire neighborhood. God has placed our church in a strategic location surrounded by low-income families, many of them Hispanic, and we were blessed to be a blessing to our community.
The day was filled with fun, food, and fellowship. About 130 children, along with their parents, grandparents, and friends, attended this free event. Even though August heat in Fresno is no small challenge, it didn’t stop anyone from enjoying the day. With giant waterslides, a slip-and-slide, and kiddie pool, children of all ages stayed cool and happy.
Throughout the event, free food and drinks were served. Five dedicated barbers gave nonstop free haircuts to children who needed them. Partnering with the BikeMasters ministry, we were able to repair many bicycles no matter what problems they had. We also donated more than a dozen slightly used bikes to families in need. For many kids, riding home on a “new-to-them” bike was a dream come true.
The grounds buzzed with activity as kids enjoyed games, crafts, soccer, and more, while adults relaxed, ate, and built friendships with our church family. A raffle gave away two brand-new bicycles and many surprise gifts—including Bibles. To our joy, children eagerly asked for their own Bibles, and we quickly ran out of the extra copies we had prepared. Next year, we plan to have plenty more on hand!
Midway through the event, Lead Pastor Alex Ivanov shared a short and powerful Gospel message, easy for all to understand, and invited everyone to join our English Sunday service at 11 a.m. The celebration ended with the distribution of new backpacks filled with school supplies, equipping every child for the upcoming school year.
None of this would have been possible without the countless volunteers and prayer warriors from House of the Gospel. From the Junior High group who packed backpacks, to the youth who canvassed the neighborhood with flyers, to the early risers who set up for the event, those who cooked and served, the barbers who worked tirelessly, the bike repair team, the activity leaders, and those who stayed late to clean up—each one reflected the heart of Christ. This is what a living church looks like: a people who love God and serve others. And “God is not unjust; He will not forget your work and the love you have shown Him as you have helped His people and continue to help them.” (Hebrews 6:10, NIV)
Jesus said, “You will be My witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” Beginning with our Jerusalem – our neighborhood, and as far as India, with God’s help, we are doing our small part in showing God’s love and spreading the Gospel until the whole earth knows the love of our Savior and Lord Jesus Christ. To God be the Glory!!!
Valentine Vaipan
House of the Gospel
houseofthegospel.org
“Declare God's glory among the nations, His marvelous deeds among all the peoples. For great is the LORD and most worthy of praise!” Psalm 96:3-4
