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Ordination in New Mexico
My name is Saunja Gelvin.
I currently live in Mountainair, New Mexico. I am married to a wonderful man who is a true gift from God. The Lord has blessed me with two daughters, a son, and a daughter-in-law. I’m also “Memaw” to a couple of adorable foster babies who brighten my life.
My youngest daughter went to be with Jesus at the age of 27 in February 2018. Losing her was the pivotal moment in my calling from God. I had been running from His call, but He used my heartbreak to fulfill His purpose for my life.
My Journey to Freedom in Christ
I have been walking with the Lord since October 31, 2010. On that night, a man and woman who love Jesus and are involved in prison ministry came to our small community to hold a free Christian concert. They came for “the one,” and that one was me. It was a spiritual battle for my soul, and Jesus won the victory!
For much of my life, I had been imprisoned—by the things done to me and the choices I had made. I was a prisoner of childhood abuse in all forms, of drug addiction and alcoholism, of mental illness and domestic violence. I was in and out of jail and mental hospitals.
But God.
Jesus set me free, and He wrecked my life to salvage it.
My Life Verses
As I write this, I am reminded of the first few Scriptures that became my life verses:
Jeremiah 29:11-14a (NIV):
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. I will be found by you,” declares the Lord, “and will bring you back from captivity.”
Answering God’s Call
In my second year of walking with the Lord, my pastor saw the calling on my life and began speaking it into me. He affirmed that I was called to leadership and to be a pastor. Looking back, I realize my running from this call was rooted in pride and immaturity in Christ, even though God allowed me to serve Him in many areas.
In 2016, I felt the call strongly again and enrolled in Christian Leaders Institute (CLI)—but once again, I ran.
Years later, God used a devastating heartbreak in my life to guide me where He wanted me. His relentless pursuit, born of His love, compelled me to surrender. God has called me to plant a church in my community. He reminded me of CLI, where He had previously led me, so two years ago, I enrolled again, this time with sincerity and commitment.
The Impact of CLI Ministry Training
The free, high-quality ministry training at CLI has made it possible for me to pursue the biblical studies and spiritual growth needed to fulfill God’s purpose for my life. This training has opened doors of unity with other churches in my community, strengthened my understanding of God’s Word, and deepened my walk with Christ.
The ministry training has equipped me to freely share what I have been freely given, while also teaching me the cost of following Christ. It has opened my eyes to see how God truly works all things for good for those who love Him and are called according to His purpose. This clarity has shaped my vision for the church God has called me to plant.
CLI’s training has humbled, lifted, encouraged, convicted, and challenged me. It has been more than I ever imagined, and I am excited to continue my studies after this Deacon Ordination. I would encourage anyone who feels called by God to ministry to pursue training at CLI. Although the courses are free, the value is immeasurable. I also encourage supporting CLI financially, as it allows others to receive the same life-changing opportunity.
Gratitude and Prayer
I want to express my gratitude to the amazing staff at CLI. Thank you for everything you do.
I would greatly appreciate your prayers as I seek to follow the Lord’s will for my life and the ministry He has entrusted to me. Please also pray for those God will place in my path. Know that CLI staff and students remain a consistent part of my prayers.
Blessings,
CLI Student
Saunja Gelvin