SCC Hispanic Region Welcomes Juan Osorio
BY LAUREN LACSON
Moving from a senior pastor role to the conference office was never part of Juan Osorio’s plans. But one day, when he received a call to join the Southern California Conference office as the Hispanic Region director, he knew he would follow where the Lord led him.
Working in the conference office versus a church has proved to be a very different experience, but Osorio sees God’s hand at work. “I believe God is the one who leads and guides us,” Osorio shared. “I appreciate the opportunity. We’re here to serve the Lord the best we can.”
Osorio has pastored at various churches in SCC since 2001. His most recent role was serving as the senior pastor at the Central Spanish church in Los Angeles. Prior to becoming a pastor, Osorio has experience working as an an electrician.
As Hispanic Region director, Osorio’s first mission is to connect with and provide support to the pas- tors. After having been a pastor for many years himself, Osorio knows what being a pastor is like, and he understands the unique challenges they face. His second goal is to accom- plish the mission, prioritizing a plan for evangelism throughout the confer- ence territory as all the region church- es work together to spread the gospel to their communities.
No matter what the position may bring, Osorio says he is blessed to be able to serve as God leads.
“God is in control,” Osorio said.
“We do the minimum—God does the maximum.”
Peter Baptiste Is Ordained
BY ARAYA MOSS
My journey has not been a solitary one,” said Peter Baptiste, Norwalk church pastor, of his ministry journey thus far.
This sentiment was evident at his ordination service this fall by the outpouring of support from friends, family, colleagues in ministry, and members from current and past congregations to whom Baptiste has ministered.
“This is a monumental day, not just for Peter,” said Baptiste’s brother, Philip, as he welcomed attendees, “but for all of us who have journeyed with him and been a part of his incredible pilgrimage of faith.”
Southern California Conference L.A. Metro Region Director Danny Chan presented Baptiste for ordination, noting how his ministry has flourished throughout many years of experience. “Your evaluation came back with one of the highest marks we’ve seen,” Chan said, “which reflects the vitality and creativity you bring to ministry.”
Brett Poynter, Temple City church pastor, who most recently ministered with him at Temple City, welcomed Baptiste to the ministry. “I’m not here to welcome you to something new,” said Poynter, “but I am here to welcome you to the new era of your life, knowing that your friends, colleagues, and family completely believe in you. That you are fully committed to God’s calling. Never forget He’s with you always, and we will confidently walk along with you in the journey of ministry.”
In his response, Baptiste acknowledged how his heart was humbled and his spirit was deeply moved.
“This is not merely an affirmation of a personal journey for me but a testament to God’s enduring faithfulness in my life,” Baptiste said. “It’s His voice that’s called me and led me and His grace that has prepared me, molded me, and shaped me. I am merely a vessel in God’s hand, chosen to shepherd His people.”
