Hey everyone, I am Gabriel Palomo. I am a college student at the University of Texas studying Electrical Engineering. I grew up in a Christian household, but all my life I never personally built a relationship with God. I thought carrying the name Christian was all I needed in my life. About a year ago, I gave my life to Christ and received the Holy Spirit. Still not understanding the weight or power that God holds, Jesus had a personal encounter with me to reveal himself to me in a way I could never have imagined. To this day, it is hard to put into words what I felt that night, but it was the most comforting peace and love I have ever felt, and I instantly knew it was something not of this world; it was Jesus Christ. Since then, God has continuously been growing my faith and teaching me to obey his commands. Every day, I fall more in love with Our Great Father. One of the major changes I have seen in my life is the heart he has given me for others. The more I see how much he loves us and the comfort I feel, I can’t help but think how I felt without knowing him. It makes me sad to think about just how many people have never heard of him or claim his name just like I did but haven’t given their life yet. Because of this, I have felt led to help others since he has found me. I have been pulled and guided by God to spread the Great Commission. I have been witnessing in San Antonio and Austin in malls, my college campus, and many other areas where I felt called. Sharing my testimony as well as praying for others has been such a fundamental part of my walk with God. There is power in our stories and, most importantly, our words. I also have been spending time spreading his love through comfort to others who are in need. I have been practicing a homeless ministry in both cities and have felt the most immense joy through those personal connections and love.

Today, I come with exciting news, as recently I have felt called by God to serve him in the summer on a mission trip. He has given me the opportunity to serve in Seattle, Washington for the month of July. In Seattle, it's easy to think of the beautiful sights and places you can visit, but the truth is there is a major homeless crisis emerging in the city as well as a prostitution ring underlying in the shadows. Although it is an uncomfortable conversation, this is the truth of the matter. On top of this, there is a lack of churches to proclaim the good news and bring the comfort of God. In Seattle, I will be volunteering with Epic Life Church, which is located in the heart of the prostitution issue on Aurora Avenue. This church is known for being a major contribution to the community. Through this mission, I will have the opportunity to build many connections with people who are in need of comfort and love. Epic Life Church has multiple programs for the homeless and prostitution recovery initiatives as well as ways for everyone to get the food they need. The church has built a reputation for making an impact on everyone's lives around them, and they have made connections with local grocery stores to provide free food. They work night and day to provide their neighbors with physical, spiritual, and relational needs. Their plan is to bring the good news of Jesus Christ to all these overlooked communities through the Gospel but also through physical works. Epic Life Church has also been known to uplift their community by cleaning the streets and giving support anywhere they can. When the church is not outreaching to their local community, they are providing the Word of God and church services throughout the week where anyone can come and fellowship with other believers. This offers a place of worship for people to come and give their life to Jesus.

I am blessed to have the opportunity to be a part of the impact Epic Life Church has on people’s lives. God has taught me the importance of being ready to be sent where it is needed. The fields are ripe in Seattle, and the harvesters are few. I pray that I am able to witness God change lives in Seattle as well as for him to grow my own through this mission. I would be honored to have you help me with this mission through your support. Any contribution would be very helpful, even just prayers sent towards this mission, the church, and the people of Seattle. I want to thank all of you who have read this far and put consideration into my mission. Your prayers and support are very appreciated.