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EDITORS
BUSINESS LIAISON
CHURCH LIAISON
GRAPHIC DESIGN
PHOTOGRAPHERS
CREATIVE TEAM
LEO AGUILERA
VIRGINIA AGUILERA
Charlene Wilson
Jon Quinones
Leo & Virginia Aguilera
Leo Aguilera, Don Mellow, and Creative Team: Joshua Aguilera, Jocelyn Powell, Alexis Diaz, Autumn Amador, Devina Aguirre, Emma Zuniga, Angel Torres Colin, Russ Campbell, Andrew Mazon, Brooke Montes
COLUMNIST
YOUTH REPORTER MAILINGS
Carol Castillo
Alexis Diaz
Virginia Aguilera
CHURCH STAFF
PASTOR H. TODD JOHNSON
BISHOP RANDY G. KEYES
ADMINISTRATIVE PASTOR - JONATHAN QUINONES
CHURCH SECRETARY - CHARLENE WILSON
CHURCH MINISTERS
RESIDENT MISSIONARIES
SPANISH MINISTRY STREAMING MINISTRY YOUNG ADULTS GROWTH TRACK
Matthew Aguirre
David Amador
Dana Le’ Blanc
Chris Harris
STUDENT PASTORS MUSIC MINISTRY
K.R.E.W. KID’S MINISTRY
B.U.F.F. (MEN 50+)
PRAYER MINISTRIES LIFE GROUPS
JOSHUA MEN'S MINISTRY
S.I.S. (Ladies' Ministry)
MATURE LADIES MINISTRY
NURSING HOME MINISTRY
BIBLE QUIZZING PUBLIC RELATIONS
LIGHTING, GRAPHIC ARTS FUNDRAISING
Uday Narayan, Xenn Seah
Antonio & Gloria Gutierrez
Joshua & Jeannette Aguilera
Chris & Lindsay Castro
Moses Burciaga
Jerry Powell
Noah Wells
Jeremiah Williams
Vinnie Zapien
Tim & Jeriann Montes
Kellee Hopper, Matt Aguirre
Nancy Holston, Tim Montes
Sujey Diaz, Mary Aguirre
Herb Jenkins
Charles & Joyce Bispo
Jonathan Quinones
Alex Diaz
Angela Warren, Joyce Jones
Joyce Jones
Joyce Jones
Joshua Williams
Jeremiah Williams
Zoe Warren
Linda Salazar
SERVICE TIMES
SUNDAY - 9:00 a.m.
10:15 a.m.
10:30 a.m.
MONDAY - 7:00 p.m
TUESDAY - 7:00 p.m.
WEDNESDAY - 7:00 p.m.
THURSDAY - 7:00 p.m.
7:30 p.m.
FRIDAY - 7:00 p.m.
SATURDAY - 10:00 a.m.
Spanish/Service - Chapel
Pre-service Prayer
Morning Service - Sanctuary, KREW
All-Church Prayer Growth Track
Mid-Week Service, KREW
Young Adults Service
Spanish Service
Revive Youth Service, Church Prayer
Saturday Morning Outreach
THE NEWSVINE is published quarterly (first Sunday of January, April, July, October) by Revival Church, United Pentecostal Church of Modesto, 825 7th Street, Modesto, CA 95354-3414. Any submitted articles to The Newsvine are subject to pastor’s approval and editing by The Newsvine staff.
A Word from the Editors
AN HISTORICAL EVENT!
Our General Superintendent, Elder David Bernard, had never made a visitation to our congregation since he took office. What an honor he was finally able to schedule a Palm Sunday service with us accompanied by his lovely wife, Sister Connie Bernard. It was a momentous occasion with a full house in attendance. Many ministers in the area also joined us to hear his anointed preaching and were blessed to hear Sister Bernard minister to all in song and testimony.
At the time of publication, our son Joshua and his wife Jeannette are AIMers in Spain, and their niece, Natalie Diaz, is an AIMer in the Dominican Republic. Media reports show all three in vibrant missionary crusades for the summer in teaching, preaching, and singing with excellent teams of fellow workers and ministers. As parents, we are truly blessed to have our next generation creating a Holy Ghost legacy for the rising church of the future.
We were blessed to visit the Naples, Italy region in March and April. Walking the ancient cities of Pompeii, Herculaneum, and Paestum allowed us to travel back in time to the age of the Apostles. We visited churches and cathedrals, many claiming to be the sites of the first houses of worship in the early church. It also impressed us how much work we still need to do to win this world to the true gospel of Jesus Christ. We were blessed to be a blessing sharing our testimony with drivers, tour guides, and fellow travelers. MARANATHA, the Lord cometh!
Table of Contents
ALL CHRISTIANS NEED TO KNOW:
A True Believer Must Never Become a "NONE"!
WHAT IS A "NONE"?
You see the word "none" being used all over the INTERNET describing a certain type of person in public opinion surveys. The Pew Research Center (a renowned non-profit, non-partisan fact tank that provides information on a wide range of issues and trends shaping America and the world), as well as scholars of religion since the 1960s, have used "none" with people who identify themselves as "nothing in particular" when asked, "Are you religious?" They are categorized with atheists and agnostics as "religiously unaffiliated."
The Pew Research Center surveys shows:
1. Most "nones" believe in a higher power, but do not attend religious services on a regular basis.
2. 41% of "nones" say religion does harm and equal amounts of good for society. Only 14% say religion does more good than harm.
3. Most "nones" do not accept that science can explain everything, but they do favor science more than church-goers.
4. "Nones" tend to vote less often than church-goers, do less volunteer work for their community and charity drives than other citizens, and they follow public affairs less than church-goers and non-believers.
5. "Nones" tend to attain lower levels of education than adult church-goers, atheists, and agnostics.
6. 30% of "nones" say they are not religious because they had bad experiences with believers.
7. 47% of "nones" admit they simply dislike religious organizations.
8. The majority of "nones" say they were raised in a church, synagogue, mosque or Eastern religion temple.
9. 90% of "nones" admit they seldom or never attend religious services.
10. The overwhelming majority of "nones" say you don't need God or the teachings of Jesus Christ to be moral and have good values. They believe the key factor is the desire not to hurt fellow human beings. Also, logic and reason only dictates morality.
WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY ABOUT "NONE'S"?
The Holy Bible is very straightforward in many passages, particularly in the New Testament, that those who do not believe in the Gospel of Jesus Christ and His plan of salvation eloquently declared by the Apostle Peter in Acts 2:38, are already under condemnation and face judgment. Also, non-believers are separated from God in this life and in the afterlife. There are also the fearful passages mentioned by Jesus Christ and the Apostle John in the Book of Revelation about hell and the lake of fire being the final abode of non-believers, backsliders, and for those who do not attend or support Christ's church according to His commands and those in the writings of His apostles.
The Bible recognizes that all men and women are created with free will. Everyone can choose whether or not to believe. But in Psalms 14:1 and Psalms 53;1 we read in matching words: "The fool says in his heart, 'There is no God'." Also for those who say it is enough to just believe, James 2:19 (KJV) says: "Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble." This verse emphasizes that even if a person uses his intellect to understand that God exists, it is not sufficient for salvation.
THE BEGINNING OF A DIGRESSION
Since most "nones" surveyed admit they were raised in a house of worship, whether, Christian, Jew, Muslim, or an Eastern religion, it does suggest they digressed from being religiously affiliated to a non-attendee of religious services. Even though the Holy Bible calls all non-believers to believe, many do not accept this as an essential preoccupation in their daily lives. What the surveys do not consider are those who become apathetic to their spiritual growth.
Let us now only consider the Christian perspective. From a Sunday school class when they were a child to the place where they are employed as an adult, the "none's" life has been a slow digression of attending church services to not at all. The "none" became that way because of everyday distractions in life. Perhaps they were raised by parents who did not attend church services regularly. Refusing to go to church in their teen years was a form of rebellion that stuck. Soon, when searching their hearts, it was not vital to be concerned with the afterlife, for eventually they doubted if it even existed. If they prayed to Jesus Christ, it only was for 911 emergencies, and even then, asking a Christian friend to do so on their behalf was enough for their contact with the divine.
DIGRESSING INTO THE ABYSS
Blaming God for his/her misfortunes was the excuse for the "none" to not serve Christ anymore by dismissing prayer and Bible reading completely from his/her daily life. Church attendance is no more, with exceptions to weddings and funerals.
Once Sundays are freed up for personal indulgences, the "none" can now attend sporting events with thousands like themselves at stadiums and millions in front of the TVs. They can now fellowship with a host of other "none's" for backyard barbecues, boating on the lake, taking on sport hobbies, and that quick drive up to the nearest casino. Strangely, more schools and Youth Sports Clubs are now scheduling games and other sporting events on Sundays. This will also secure no church attendance for the entire
family. But the biggest diversion is the Sunday couch syndrome. The day of rest is not for the Lord Jesus Christ, but for yourself. Taking that nap, playing that video game, or catching up on your favorite TV series can now be done during your appointment with the family room couch or your favorite recliner.
WHAT ARE YOU?
The Lord then judges you with this simple closure: Those who want eternal life will choose to attain it, those who don't wont.
So, dear reader, what is your self-observation? Search your heart and be honest with yourself. Are you digressing slowly but surely in becoming a "none"? Or, after reading this article, have you come to the conclusion that you are a "none" or soon will be?
Joshua, the son of Nun, found the more profound purpose of living, "As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord." Joshua 24:15
"Joshua's Farewell Address to Israel" Composite Illustration of West and Tissot, 1892
COVER STORY
A Momentous Visit from the Bernards
We were blessed on Palm Sunday to have UPCI General Superintendent Dr. David K. Bernard and his wife, Sister Connie Bernard, minister. They are a powerhouse couple, totally dedicated to the work of God. It was obvious from the first notes of Sister's Bernard's solo, "You Are My All in All," that she sincerely lives each day grateful for His presence in her life and surrendered to His will. The UPCI is blessed by the leadership of these godly man and woman of God.
"The Faithful God"
Using Deuteronomy 7:9 as his foundation, Dr. David Bernard preached a powerful message titled “The Faithful God.” The verse declares:
Dr. DaviD K. BernarD
UPCI General Superintendent
"Therefore know that the LORD your God, He is God, the faithful God who keeps covenant and mercy for a thousand generations with those who love Him and keep His commandments” (NKJV).
These words, spoken by Moses to the children of Israel as they stood on the brink of entering the Promised Land, served as both a reminder and a warning. Dr. Bernard emphasized that just as Israel would face cultural pressures in Canaan, we too face the influence of a surrounding culture that often pulls us away from God. He explained, “In that time, people believed they had to worship the gods of the land in order to prosper. God knew His people would be tempted to conform—and we face the same temptation today.”
Moses affirmed the singular truth of God’s identity: “Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one!” (Deuteronomy 6:4). Dr. Ber-
nard echoed that declaration, warning against anything—pleasure, tradition, money, material possessions, or status—that would take the place of God in our hearts. “Whatever stands between us and worshiping the one true God becomes our god,” he said. “But what happens when those things fail you? There’s only one God who remains faithful in both good times and bad.”
With clarity and conviction, Dr. Bernard laid out how God reveals His faithfulness to all—from firsttime visitors to lifelong believers. Quoting Hebrews 11:6, he said, “Without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.”
He then walked the congregation through the plan of salvation in Acts 2:38. God, he said, is faithful to forgive those who repent. Through baptism in Jesus’ name, our sins are washed away—not by ritual, but by faith in the power of His blood. “That is why we always call on the name of Jesus Christ,” he explained. And as hearts yield to Him, they are filled with the Holy Spirit.
Faith in “The Faithful God” transforms every part of our lives—how we think, speak, act, relate, dress, and choose what we engage with. “God changes us from the inside out,” he said. “From start to finish, our life is by God's grace through faith.”
Dr. Bernard also addressed the reality of sin and failure in the Christian journey. “When you sin,” he urged, “repent immediately. Don’t wait. God is faithful to forgive and to restore. He was faithful to save you in the beginning, and He is faithful to bring you back.”
Turning to trials, he offered words of encouragement: “If you’re going through a trial, it’s proof that you can get through it. God would never let something come your way without also giving you a way out. No matter what you’re facing, His grace will sustain you, and at the right time, He will deliver you.”
Dr. Bernard and his wife exemplify a life wholly given to the mission of God’s kingdom. Like the Apostle Paul, Dr. Bernard, though highly educated, came with words not to entice or impress. He simply preached the Word of God with sincerity and conviction.
The response was undeniable. The altars were full. Three people were baptized in Jesus’ name, and seven received the gift of the Holy Spirit. Truly, the presence of “The Faithful God” was in the house.
SiSter Connie BernarD
THE BERNARD GATHERING
Pastor Todd and Sister Kim Johnson pose with UPCI General Superintendent Dr. David K. Bernard and his wife, Connie.
Good Friday Service
"There Is a Substitute"
Isaiah 53 (NIV)
Who has believed our message and to whom has the arm of the Lord been revealed? He grew up before him like a tender shoot, and like a root out of dry ground. He had no beauty or majesty to attract us to him, nothing in his appearance that we should desire him. He was despised and rejected by mankind, a man of suffering, and familiar with pain. Like one from whom people hide their faces he was despised, and we held him in low esteem. Surely he took up our pain and bore our suffering, yet we considered him punished by God, stricken by him, and afflicted. But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed. We all, like sheep, have gone astray, each of us has turned to our own way; and the Lord has laid on him the iniquity of us all. He was oppressed and afflicted, yet he did not open his mouth; he was led like a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before its shearers is silent, so he did not open his mouth.
By oppression and judgment he was taken away. Yet who of his generation protested? For he was cut off from the land of the living; for the transgression of my people he was punished. He was assigned a grave with the wicked, and with the rich in his death, though he had done no violence, nor was any deceit in his mouth. Yet it was the Lord’s will to crush him and cause him to suffer, and though the Lord makes his life an offering for sin, he will see his offspring and prolong his days, and the will of the Lord will prosper in his hand. After he has suffered, he will see the light of life and be satisfied; by his knowledge my righteous servant will justify many, and he will bear their iniquities. Therefore I will give him a portion among the great, and he will divide the spoils with the strong, because he poured out his life unto death, and was numbered with the transgressors. For he bore the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors.
"There Is a Substitute"
Pastor Johnson welcomes his "Pickleball Family" guests as Brother Tim Powell gives a thumbs up.
The worship team sings "Worthy Is Your Name, Jesus."
"Hallelujah for the Cross" by Chris McClarney
Gratefulness is expressed to our Savior Jesus Christ who willingly suffered death on the cross for our salvation.
Easter Sunday
"The Rebellious Resurrection"
It was an unusual Easter sermon title, "The Rebellious Resurrection," but a powerful message preached by Pastor Johnson. "The gospel," he said, "is a transformational experience." He spoke how, since the beginning of time, death has been mysterious and fearful. "The Bible," he said, "compares it to a shadow...always stalking in the shadows of everyone's life." But death could not hold Jesus Christ in the grave. With his death and resurrection, He took the keys to death, hell, and the grave. Joyfully, Pastor Johnson proclaimed that Jesus' resurrection has conquered the adversary of despair and discouragement. He reminded the church that when death is swallowed up, all tears will be wiped away. Gone forever is sadness, suffering, trouble, and heartache. Yes, in Jesus' resurrection He truly rebelled against death, our the age-old adversary. Because He lives, so can we!
The RC Choir led the church into a powerful time of rejoicing, celebrating Resurrection Sunday. Singing "Celebrate New Life" by Marcus Cole, the choir led by Matt Aguirre with soloist Keenan Rochester, brought the church to its feet. Next, the choir with soloist Lauren Hunt continued with "That's My King" by CeCe Williams. Ending with soloist MaKayla Johnson singing "You Reign" by Adam Ranney. What a powerful time of worship to the King of Kings who conquered death and the grave! "O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory? I Corinthians 15:55 KJV).
A Tearful Farewell
The joy of this year's Easter service was tempered by the acknowledgment that this would be the last service in Modesto for the Johnson's youngest daughter, MaKayla Johnson. She has served faithfully in our music ministry for many years and lately also as head of media for our services. After an April wedding, she and her husband, Brayden Shock, will be congregating with Vessel Church in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, pastored by her brother-in-law and sister, Taylor and Mehgan Fairbanks. The Johnsons are now officially empty-nesters.
Clockwise from top left: Pastor Johnson kisses MaKayla's forehead after expressing how proud and pleased the Johnsons are that she has chosen to be in ministry. Sister Johnson wipes her tears while Pastor Johnson announces this is MaKayla's last service in Modesto. Bishop Keyes, however, after praising MaKayla, revels that now Pastor Johnson knows what it feels like to lose a daughter.
We Send Off Our Summer AIMers
PastorJohnson took time out of a Sunday morning service in May to recognize and pray for three of our own who will be participating in missions work this summer: Joshua and Jeannette Aguilera and Natalie Diaz. The Aguileras will be traveling to Spain, Andorra, and one other location to be determined while they are there. They will be under the direction of Brother and Sister Dennis Uecker, Regional Teachers who conduct and coordinate missions training from Barcelona, Spain. Brother and Sister Aguilera, who are both elementary school teachers, are dedi-
cating their summer break from teaching to receive hands-on training with local missionaries.
Natalie Diaz, who just finished her freshman year in college, is traveling to the Dominican Republic to join the Missionary Gateway Center, taking language classes and learning first-hand about missions.
We pray for our AIMers that God will use them mightily, and direct their steps as they seek out God's will for their lives. Their experiences, with photos, will be featured in our 2025 Fall issue.
Memorial Day Picnic
Sister Johnson and Newsvine Editor Virginia Aguilera pose with new acquaintances, Pickle Ball enthusiasts, John and Marie. Who knew Pickle Ball was a great church outreach? God did!
Thank you, John and Amy Rodriguez, for coordinating our annual Memorial Day picnic. We had one of our best attended picnics ever. What a great time of fellowship!
PastorJohnson PickleBallCh amp!
A Church Family for Life!
Visiting Anointed Preacher Delivers the WORD!
Jonathan Whittemore "Unorthodox Revival"
"There ought to be something in us today that says I want to GO HIGHER than I've ever gone before. I want to SEE GREATER THINGS of God than I've ever seen before!"
Pastor Floyd Lozada Ordained!
Congratulations to Pastor Floyd Lozada who recently was ordained by the United Pentecostal Church, International! He and his wife, Rosie, for many years have pastored West Valley Revival Center in Gustine and are also overseeing churches in Los Banos and more recently in Chowchilla. They have more than proven themselves to be godly, dedicated leaders, and we commend him for this recognition.
New Member Meet & Greet
Ministry Focus - RC Security Team
Being a metro church has its challenges, especially in the world in which we live today. With that in mind, several years ago Pastor Johnson saw the need and instituted a new department: Security. It is headed by Daniel Warren and John Walls (photos top row left). At every service there are designated team members who watch the foyer, including the doorways and the sanctuary. Also on Sunday mornings, there are men stationed outside the parking lot and front door to act as a deterrent. Team members are also deployed on Wednesday nights and at other activities. So it you see one of our men loitering in the foyer, they are there for a purpose. Thank you, Security Team, for your diligence and dedication to our safety. We believe in prayer, but it doesn't hurt to use wisdom as well. Pictured here are some members of the RC Security Team, no names given!
Mother's Day
God bless all the women of our church who nurture the church of tomorrow!
Baby Dedication Service
At Revival Church, we believe in bringing our children to the altar and dedicating them to the Lord. The Bible says in Proverbs 22:6, "Train up a child in the way he should go: And when he is old, he will not depart from it." We also dedicate ourselves as parents to raise up our children, teaching them the ways of the Lord, and to be godly examples to them. Pictured left: As Pastor Johnson speaks, Pastor Jon Quinones passes out a Bible to each family.
Pentecost Sunday - The Fire Is Still Falling!
PastorTaylor Fairbanks of Vessel Church in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, began his Pentecost Sunday service in an unexpected way. He described fires that have begun underground in several places around the world that no matter what was done to extinguish the flames, these fires have kept burning for countless years. He then went on to compare those earthly flames to the fire that fell on Pentecost. No matter
what persecution the church has experienced, that fire still burns. It can't be stopped! Below are pictures of the altar call, except for the bottom left photo in which Pastor Johnson points out that the reason Lena Jackson is sitting instead of standing with the choir is that she is determined not to let her health battle with cancer stop her from singing to the Lord.
Domingo de Pentecostés – ¡El fuego sigue cayendo!
El pastor Johnson predicó sobre el fuego durante el Servicio Español el domingo de Pentecostés.
Congratulations Class of
College graduates
College: Indiana Bible College
Degree: Bachelor's in Biblical Studies
Future Goal: Missionary
2025!
College: Teachers College of San Joaquin
Teaching credential - Early Childhood
Special Education
Employed: Merced County Office of Education
- Schelby School
College: CSUS
Degree: Masters in Clinical Social Work, emphasis on Psychology
Honor: Graduated Summa Cum Laude
Employed: Stanislaus County Behavioral Health, Mobile Crisis Unit
College: Liberty University
Degree: Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design
Edith Elizabeth Arellano
Jennifer Cameron
Summer Johal
MaKayla SHOCK
College: CSUS
Degree: Biological Sciences Degree
Career Goal: Undecided
HigH sCHool graduates
High School: Gregori High
College Plans: MJC
Career Goal: Nursing
College: Liberty University Degree: Masters in Nonprofit Administration & Management
High School: Downey High Future Plans: Trade school
High School: Hilmar High Future Plans: He has enlisted in the US Navy as a Master of Arms and plans to make the military as his career, following a long family history of military service.
Nayeli Ramos
Zoe Warren
Chanel Amador
Phillip Caraveo
Kiel Coder
High School: Oakdale
College Plans: MJC
Career Goal: History Teacher
High School: Whitmore Charter College Plans: MJC
Career Goal: Elementary School Teacher
High School: Oakdale Charter
College Plans: MJC
Career Goal: Undecided
High School: Gregori High College Plans: MJC, Fresno State Career Plans: Speech language pathologist
High School: Johansen High College Plans: CSUS, majoring in biological sciences Career Plans: Research Lab
High School: Lathrop High Career Goal: Paralegal
Ashton Espinoza
Ashlyn Gregory
Brooke Montes
LJ Narayan
Ciara Ortega
Jaylynn Quinones
High School: Denair Charter College Plans: MJC Career Goal: Heavy Machinery Mechanic
Erick Winchester
High School: Gregori High Future Plans: MJC then transfer to a 4-yr college to pursue a Bachelor of Science and Masters in Nursing Career Goal: Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist.
High School: Downey High Future Plans: Apprenticeship in plumbing & pipe fitting
High School: Modesto High Adult Education College Plans: MJC Career Goal: Nutritionist
Read Carol's testimony on page 36 of this issue of The Newsvine.
High School: Central Valley College Plans: Stanislaus State University, majoring in business
"May he give you the desire of your heart and make all your plans succeed."
- Psalm 20:4 (NIV)
Mona Torres
Anthony Valencia
Daniel Valle
CAROL Paul
TESTIMONY OF FAITH
Sister Carol Paul "From Bondage to Freedom!" - A Graduate's Story of Victory!
(Editor's Note: The following testimony of Sister Carol Paul is an inspiring story of the saving power of Jesus Christ. Once bound many years by drug addiction and suffering in abusive relationships, her story ends in victory. She is now married with a family, went back to Adult School and recently earned her high school diploma. Be inspired and encouraged by her story.
A Challenging Childhood
Carol was born to Charles and Margaret Gale in Los Angeles on May 13, 1974. When she was still an infant, the family moved to Escalon, a small farming community just north of Modesto, across the Stanislaus River. She had a hectic upbringing. Her father was a victim of Agent Orange exposure during the Vietnam War. It left him docile and quiet, with a nervous disorder. Her mother seemed to take advantage of the situation. She became domineering and controlling to Carol and her four siblings, with little interference from her father. Carol remembers her father having a custodial job with the Escalon school district, but that soon ended when her mother encouraged him to go on disability and stay home with her and the children. They were soon on welfare, with Carol's four siblings needing social aid for severe learning handicaps. It was her younger sister's physical and mental handicaps that exposed the whole family to the awesome healing power of God.
An elder of the Assembly of God church invited her mother and the children to a healing service. Her sister was subject to intense seizures that were frightening to witness. But when the pastor prayed for her, she was instantly healed. In fact, today Carol says her sister is a schoolteacher for a preschool in the Bay Area. Carol remembers they attended the church for a while, and she enjoyed her Sunday school class. She learned to love Jesus Christ and saw the importance of prayer. However, her mother was sensitive to social interactions and soon became offended for reasons Carol does not remember. They stopped attending, and now Carol realizes her mother may have been bipolar.
Even so, Carol also has fond memories when her mother was in a good mood. She would take the children to the lake for fun picnics, and she would also drive them up to the Mother Lode town of historic Sonora. She tried to do her best to keep their minds active, but their learning disabilities were quite a challenge. Autism was not recognized in the early 70's. It was not until her brothers were in their teens when they were properly diagnosed.
Carol remembers her older brother having severe antisocial behavior. At times he would pull curtains from their hanging rods and have meltdowns in public. Carol's par-
ents placed him in a home where he became a ward of the state. Carol feels it was best for him because today he is gainfully employed in a Stockton elementary school as a custodian, living with a roommate on his own.
Her mother provided them three meals a day, and the whole family was expected to be seated at the dining table. Carol recognizes the devotion of her mother, and even today her mother provides 24 hour care to Carol's two younger brothers who remain completely disabled due to their numerous handicaps.
Carol also recognizes that she had learning problems in school, although not as severe as her autistic siblings. When Carol was in elementary school, her parents moved several times, causing Carol to fall far behind her peers in reading comprehension. Although she loved science and history, she found herself by her junior high years having attained only a fifth grade reading level. She attended three different junior high schools, and eventually she would end up in a continuation high school. Here Carol only had to attend half-day, which made it convenient for her mother to use her help providing care for Carol's younger brothers.
As Carol approached her senior year in high school, she examined her life and felt trapped. Helping her mother with her disabled brothers was exhausting and emotionally draining. In her bedroom, she remembered falling on her knees and asking God if there was a better life for her. She witnessed outbursts of frustration by her mother, and then saw her father having no reaction; he would just sit in front of TV all day long. Her father never took interest in her life and never told her and her siblings that he loved them.
Carol blames the effects of his war trauma for his lack of parenting skills and nurturing. Carol looked for an escape, and it came two months prior before she turned 18.
Trials and Errors
In 1992, Carol was given the opportunity to have a temporary job in the summer before her senior year. She never told her mother she got this job, which was assisting nurses at a local hospital. On her first day, she worked a full eight hours. When Carol got home, her mother asked her where she had been for she had needed help with the boys. When Carol told her about her new employment, her mother shouted at her that she would have to quit the job and help her instead, "Or leave this house!" Someone was listening to the argument. At this time, her parents were renting a home on a small ranch in Ceres just south of Modesto. The landlord had a maintenance man taking care of the ranch who had sparked a friendship with Carol, unbeknown to her parents. He was much older and also married. But he was her escape. That night, he set her up in a trailer behind his mother's home. Carol's job became full-time, and she dropped out of high school. However, what she thought would become her freedom, became just the opposite.
This man became very controlling and demanded that he be her first priority. He would spy on her at the hospital and began to accuse her of being unfaithful to him. He also was verbally and mentally abusive towards her. He attacked her self-esteem and tried to make her feel obligated to him. She felt trapped and miserable. What made it more difficult for her was that his wife encouraged her husband's relationship with Carol. She had to escape again from this abusive situation right back to her mother's home. Yet for three months the man and his wife stalked her, sometimes parking in front of the ranch house watching her every move. It would take another man to get rid of him.
That man was Brother Bill Barker who is a victorious Apostolic Christian today, living in the state of Oregon. He is also a dear friend of this editor. But at the time Carol met him, he was unsaved. Bill saw Carol walking with her mom and brothers in downtown Ceres. He was with his boss at the time (he installed drywall) and leaned over to him telling him, "I'm going to marry that girl." He boldly got out of his truck, approached her and told her he would like to come and see her. Carol admitted that she was smitten with the tall, athletically built, long-haired man. When he came to visit, Carol told him about her stalker and his wife. That day, Bill menacingly stood in front of the ranch house when they drove by. Carol said they never drove by again.
When Carol began to see Bill, she soon realized he was into the drug scene. But he was exciting and attentive to her. He too was much older than she was, in his early 30's. Bill was once again another escape for her. She soon moved in with him and began a relationship that would last several years. It was not long before Carol was introduced to drugs. She also discovered Bill was a womanizer but expected complete control of her. She was allowed to continue her employment at Memorial Hospital, but his dominance soon became intolerable. His abuse of her was verbal and mental. Then it became physical. She at times was left
with bruises and had to perform her hospital duties under pain caused by assaults the night before. Carol ingested uppers and downers to get through the day. Bill was against her using drugs obtained from a fellow employee. But Carol was becoming rebellious, and this was causing violent scenes at home. She soon became pregnant and stopped taking drugs. That was when a different assault began, and it frightened Carol beyond her expectations.
Sister Carol before she turned her life to Christ.
Paranormal activity manifested itself in their home. Today Carol realizes it had to be demonic, induced most likely by their drug usage. She became aware that Bill had experienced this supernatural phenomena for many years, particularly with one of his previous relationships. Her name was Lori Smith, who today is living a victorious Apostolic Christian life. Carol discovered that Bill and Lori had delved into the occult. When Carol was high and/or sober, she experienced occurrences that, "made my hair stand on end." She saw dark, shadowy entities that appeared like vapors at the end of dark hallways. Toilets flushed with no one present, and feelings of a presence watching her kept her up at night. Bill too was frightened at times, and Carol realized that she had to believe stronger in a God Who could protect her family. When her daughter Deanna was born, Carol was happy and soon became pregnant again with her son Thomas. Then Deanna began to witness phenomena too frightening for a little girl to accept. Carol did not want this terrifying invasion in her home. God answered her prayers with Sister Lori's testimony.
Sister Lori Smith had been saved with her husband at Revival Center at the time Thomas was born. The Smiths had given their testimony to The Newsvine and a copy was given to Bill. Lori testified that she had been delivered from paranormal assault by divine intervention. Carol wanted to meet her. They were introduced and have become lasting friends to this present day. Carol told Lori she wanted the salvation that Lori experienced as she had testified in The Newsvine. Lori invited her to church.
When Carol entered into the sanctuary, she immediately felt the power of God's presence. Brother Dannie Hood from Denver, Colorado, was preaching. There was a powerful altar service, and Carol received the baptism of the Holy Ghost, speaking in other tongues, after she was baptized in the name of Jesus. In the weeks ahead, Carol changed her attire to more modest apparel, and she began to witness to Bill. He did not want his wife this way. He threatened her, and at one time threw her out of the house. But persistent witnessing by Carol and the Smiths finally
got him to church.
That night Bishop Keyes preached on activating your faith. Bill was the first one at the altar, and he was astonished when he too began to speak in tongues and felt the powerful presence of the Holy Spirit. That night Elder Epley married them in Pastor Keyes' office. They would faithfully attend for almost two years. But Carol soon discovered that Bill was selling drugs again. Carol was also struggling with the standards of the church.
They backslid.
Domestic violence soon returned, and unexplainable occurrences once more frightened the family. Beds began to move, articles were flung across the room, and entities began to appear. Carol did not forget her experience at Revival Center. She kept a Bible at her bedside. But even then, she at times felt an invisible presence on top of her, seeming to strangle her in the middle of the night. Carol admitted that the devil was after her family. Emotional upheavals with Bill finally climaxed with her threatening to shoot herself with a gun she was pointing to her head. She lost her job and found herself getting high almost every night. She wondered how long it would be before the drugs would totally obsess her. She found herself going to the bathroom and praying to God that she would once again have to escape another abusive relationship. She had invested eleven years of her life with Bill. She would have to file divorce to get her life back on track. But the drugs were another problem.
As long as the drugs had a hook on her, she knew she could never be right with God. It seemed that she could not give them up. She was backslidden and miserable, without any hope of redemption.
A Fateful Encounter
On a Friday night, a friend of hers invited Carol to party with her. Carol got someone to watch the kids, and she and her friend went out to score some drugs. They drove to a home in northwest Modesto. Carol saw it was a typical track home, nothing distinguishable, and nothing out of the ordinary. An older gentleman lived there, although the house was owned by his son. This father allowed drugs to be sold there. He told the ladies the drug dealer would soon arrive and to wait for him in the garage. While they were waiting, Carol saw through the open door what appeared to be a policeman in uniform approaching the house. She noticed he was young, attractive and wholesome in appearance. She heard him yell at the older man, "This is it! I told you no drugs in this house!" Carol and her girlfriend quickly made their escape back to their car. "Who's that?" Carol asked. Her girlfriend quickly responded, " That's the son! His name is William." Carol was surprised by this revelation. And yet, something fascinated her about the young man. William Paul would prove to be a complete opposite to the men Carolina had encountered in her life thus far. But it would take divine intervention to get her back on track, proof that God loved her and her loved ones more
than she could possibly imagine.
A Knight in Shining Armor!
Carol was divorcing her husband who was moving out to live in Oregon. The next day, she had some business to do at the County Center, and there she saw William on his day shift as a security guard pushing an elderly woman in a wheelchair into the building. She felt it was destiny to
meet him. She ran up to him and grabbed him by the collar and demanded that he give her his number. He recognized her as the girl in his garage the night before, and he did not hesitate to write it down. Soon they were calling each other, and when her soon-to-be ex left for Oregon, she began to date Will.
Will had just about had it living with his parents. Soon that would end when he came home one day to find a SWAT team in front of his house. Evidently, his father had received some stolen goods, and they were raiding Will’s home. The commanding officer told Will he should move out and stay away from his father. That night, Will moved in with Carol.
Carol admits that Will was a lifesaver. She was still hooked on drugs, and she had no discipline running a food budget and paying the bills for herself and the kids. The first thing Will did was stock the cupboards and refrigerator with food. Will took a liking to Carol’s children, Deanna and Thomas. He also began to sever her friendships with her party friends. Because Will loved Carol, he tolerated her slips into drug use. She also tolerated his gambling habits. But both realized this would not work out if they did not give up their vices. Will decided to help Carol get off drugs. It took six months of commitment by both of them to break her habit. He would even hold her all night so she wouldn’t get up and sneak out of the house to score some meth. After her family put up with her withdrawals, she finally was clean. But one night, Will felt uneasy on his night shift. He told his boss that something was wrong at home. His boss gave him permission to end his shift. When Will entered his living room, he heard voices in the kitchen. One of Carol’s old friends was about to sell her some meth. Bill yelled at Carol’s friend to get out. Bill swears he saw the woman slither out of the room like a snake. Carol
Will and Carolyn Paul on their wedding day
broke down in his arms saying she was sorry. Carol felt that she was going to need a higher power to keep her from relapsing into her old habits.
A Divine Intervention
Carol told Bill that she was feeling strong sentiments for going back to church. At times she would be doing her housekeeping chores and a song on the radio would remind her of a gospel hymn. She would get tears in her eyes and feel conviction in her heart. Then one day, Sister Hilda Rochester from Revival Center called her on an outreach hotline to invite her to church. Carol knew this was a confirmation that she needed to start attending church. She told Sister Rochester she would think about it. But the next day, when she was folding clothes in her bedroom, she felt a strong presence behind her. Then she heard the words, “My daughter, it is time to come home!” She fell to the floor and began to speak in tongues. She called Sister Rochester to pick her up for the next service. When Will came home, he saw the excitement in her eyes when she told him she was going start attending church again. She wanted him to join her, but he said that church was not for him. If she wanted to go, it was okay with him.
Carol remembers she went Sunday morning, and as soon as the altar call was given, she ran up to be prayed for. She was given a tremendous blessing, speaking in tongues, and being refilled with His Spirit. Will admits that there was a change in her. It seemed like all her cravings for meth had disappeared. The way Carol began to dress startled him. She was modest in her apparel, and she no longer used profane language. Every Sunday, he helped her to dress the children and took them outside where Sister Rochester was waiting to drive them to church. He would wave goodbye, knowing that he was keeping a secret from her.
At his job, Will had a co-worker who was witnessing to him about the saving grace of Jesus Christ. He knew the man as Keenan who was friendly and outgoing. Bill kept turning him down when Keenan would invite him to church. But Bill admits that something was stirring inside of him. Then one Sunday morning, as Will walked out his family to Sister Rochester’s waiting van, he saw his co-worker Keenan step out of the vehicle. They instantly recognized each other, and Bill was dumbfounded that Keenan was Sister Rochester’s husband. Will says this left a strong impact on him. But he was still rebellious and only promised he would come soon.
It was the end of the year 2006. Carol was pleading with Will to come to Watch Night service. He chose instead to go to a casino to gamble. But all that night, he felt uncomfortable and was not enjoying the game. The next morning, he told Carol he would start going only to Sunday morning service. For several weeks he stuck to his resolution. He enjoyed hearing Bishop Keyes teach the word, but he did not let Carol know that. Then she began to pressure him to go to the bilingual service on February 17. It was a night service, and he had not agreed to do this. He told her he would go this one time. Carol did not feel this would be the best service to get him up to the altar. But as soon as
Will entered the sanctuary, he felt a powerful presence. He was impressed with the worship and the inspiring singing of the mass choir and the bilingual choir. The preaching pierced his soul, and then Brother Keenan Rochester invited him to the altar. Will did not hesitate. He said to Carol, “I’m ready to go!” Never in his years growing up had he felt such love. At the altar he felt the anointing of the Holy Spirit all around him, and he felt hands on his head and shoulders from brothers who were praying for him. Brother Rochester spoke into his ear and said he would feel a tingling come over him. Will said he saw a “white hand of lightening” hit him on the chest. He was slain in the spirit, speaking in tongues!
When Carol came up to the altar, after gathering the children, she said, “Where is he?” She said she saw Will get up drunk in the Spirit, saying, “YES!” He wanted to be baptized in Jesus name! When Will came out of the water, the Holy Ghost continued to fill him with a powerful confirmation. Will became faithful in his attendance to every service. He married Carol, and they were blessed with two beautiful boys. Since then they have lived a blessed and victorious life!
Update: Inspired by the graduation of her son Thomas, from Cal Berkeley, Carol enrolled in Adult School and recently graduated with the goal of being a nutritionist. We commend you, Sister Carol. All glory to God!
daughter Deanna Barker
Will and Carol Paul at the wedding of son, Thomas Barker, and his wife Kristy, with sons Ryan and Andrew. Not pictured,
Carol and Will Paul today living victoriously! 1
Nelson & Talitha Rivera
An Apostolic Powerhouse Team "Go and Get It!"
It may be officially summer time with families on vacation, but the Holy Ghost is not taking a break! That was evident during a Sunday service at the end of June with Nelson and Talitha Rivera, who pastor Upper Room Church of Imperial Beach and Upper Room of Eastlake in Chula Vista. Pastor Quinones remembers speaking to Pastor Rivera when he was first voted in as pastor in Imperial Beach. At that time, there were about 23 members. Now, a few years later, they are running more than 200 on Sunday mornings! "They are all about the kingdom of God," said Pastor Quinones.
Sister Rivera spoke first. Her words were passionate and anointed. Her topic was "Go and Get It! She spoke about the widow women who was preparing the last meal and her and her son. This woman had accepted defeat. But God sent Elijah who told her not to be afraid, that God would provide. And he did. During the rest of the famine, she was able to feed not only herself and her son, but also the prophet Elijah. "The Lord will move mountains," she said, "to let you know not to be afraid." As the woman stepped out in faith, "she was changing her world."
By the time the ensemble finished singing, "Better Is One Day," by Matt Redman, it was obvious that the Spirit of God was moving powerfully, and the altars began filing. Pastor Rivera spoke of miracles and encouraged those present to start visibly worshipping God for the miracles He has done in their lives. Pastor Rivera then invited those who wanted the Holy Ghost and those who needed a miracle to come forward. The altar filled. Hands were raised. Tears flowed. Several received the gift of the Holy Ghost and were baptized in Jesus' name. Praise God! What an exciting start to our summer!
Nelson and Talitha Rivera with their children: Vienna, Milana, and Lucia.
We Honor Those Who Paid the Ultimate Price for our Freedom
On the Sunday of the Memorial Day weekend, the church paused to honor those brave men and women who have given their all for our country. Below, left, Pastor Johnson speaks of their great sacrifice; below right, our veterans stand at attention before an image of the flag as taps is played. God bless our veterans!
We say farewell to...
Jackie Dean Robinson
P, 9/20/40 to 11/26/2024
ictured above fromleft: Brother Jack Robinson, holding his award plaque for Senior of the Year, poses with Bishop Keyes at the 2015 Senior Banquet; Brother Jack's family members, daughters Coral Ann Hackett and Jackie Johnson and MaryLou Crowley and Shirley Anderson, who flew from out of state for Brother Jack's memorial service. We will miss this great man who labored for years in bus ministry and never thought he was too old to win souls. We love you, Brother Jack, and are looking forward to laughing at your jokes again when we see you in heaven.
Gabriel "Nini" Barraza, Jr. 5/12/87 to 4/26/2025
This picture taken at a Memorial Day picnic makes me imagine Brother Jack's excitement when he reached his ultimate goal of heaven. Congratulations, Jack!
It was with great sadness that we grieve with Brother Gabriel and Sister Josie Barraza, for the unexpected death of their son, Gabriel Barraza, Jr. Gabriel grew up in the church, and besides also leaving his brothers Ray, Rudy, he leaves many church friends and a large number of relatives. As his eulogy stated he was "a light that brightened every room he walked into."
KREW is rad!
KREW week this year was totally rad! Tuesday night was the "Come One, Come All, Meet Jesus" worship and word service with Reverend Brett Randall Regnart who is the Western District UPCI Children's Ministries Director. On Wednesday night, our KREW kids took over the midweek service and rocked with anointed worship singing, followed up again by Brother Regnart who ministered not only to the children and their parents, but also gave honor and praise to Sister Sujey Diaz's dedicated team of volunteers. At the end of the service, he asked adults and children to come forward for a time of one-on-one prayer. Brother Regnart truly has a heart and gift for children's ministry. On Thursday night, KREW jumped for joy at Skyzone Trampoline Park, and the week ended with a puppet show and carnival at the church. What an amazing week for our kids. Thank you to all!
KREW kids ensemble leads worship singing, "I've Got a Reason to Praise the Lord" by Elevation Worship. On the left, Reverend Brett Regnart praises the volunteers who assisted KREW Director Sujey Diaz.
From left: KREW Director Sujey Diaz, KREW kids speaker, Western District Children's Ministry Director Reverend Brett Randall Regnart, Reverends Vinny Zapien and Noah Wells pray for children at the altar
Missionary sit Down at the Aguileras
IBarb Sean Lindsay Castro
f you have never attended a Missionary Sit Down, you have really missed something very special. Every two months, Jerry and Andrea Powell, former RC Missions Directors, choose one or more missionaries to speak about their burden and experiences on the missions field. In May it was held at the home of Newsvine editors Leo and Virginia Aguilera. It was a treat to hear from previous AIMers, Chris and Lindsay Castro, and also from Sister Barb Seah. First up was Lindsay who spoke of her missions trip to Spain many years ago, serving as an AIMer under the Sones. She highly praised Brother Sones and his dedication 24/7 to missions. When she arrived in Spain, Brother Sones told her, "This is going to be an anything, anytime, anywhere missions trip. He called it the "triple A method." She learned how true this was when she was asked to fix a clogged toilet! Through the years, she has never lost a desire for missions or to serve missionaries. "One thing I've tried to cultivate is to have a servant's heart."
Next to speak with Chris Castro who went as an
Chris Castro
AIMer to Chile, working under Brother Shane Hanes. He began by praising Brother and Sister Powell for all of their support for missions at our church. He spoke of his desire to do missions as a young person, but for many years he struggled with following through. "I had to learn consistency," he said. It was when he finally had his life together - an apartment, a car, a good paying job - that he was finally ready to step out and make a commitment. During his missions experience, he learned that he had to be a responsible Christian."I had to have integrity," he said. He also learned that in missions you have to be prepared for anything, and it is vital to get in the Word of God everyday.
We also heard from Sister Barb Seah who was shortly to leave on a missionary trip herself to Viet Nam, after many years traveling with her husband Xenn Seah. It was her burden for missions that led to her meeting Brother Seah during her own missionary trip as a single adult.
Always pray for our missionaries!
BUFF Gathering at the Wilsons
BUFF, our men's group for those aged 50 and above, met this spring at the home of Donnie and Charlene Wilson. The special speaker for the evening was Tim Powell. It was a great time to fellowship, be challenged by the Word, and eat! If you fit this age group, see BUFF Leader Herb Jenkins for information on the next gathering.
Mature Ladies Luncheon
If you are a lady aged 50 or above, come join the monthly Mature Ladies luncheons for a time of good food and wonderful fellowship with your peers. See Joyce Jones to be put on the notification list for their next gathering. Don't sit at home wishing you had more church friends, be proactive and show up. As the saying goes, "If you want friends, show yourself friendly." On the left is their May gathering; on the right, June.
End of Month Connect Groups
Father's Day 2025
Those who fear the Lord are secure; he will be a refuge for their children.
- Proverbs 14:26
Bishop
Keyes & Sister Johnson
Congratulations, Mr. and Mrs. Tim Warren!
Congratulations to Tim Warren and his bride, Moriah Yzaguirre, who were married in June! The couple will be attending Revival Church in Modesto. We pray God's blessings on their marriage. (Photo by Mehgan Fairbanks)
Congratulations, Mr. and Mrs. Brayden Shock!
Congratulations to Brayden Shock and MaKayla Johnson on their recent marriage! They had a wonderful destination wedding at Lake Como, Italy. They are making their new home in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and will be attending Vessel Church there. MaKayla is the youngest daughter of Pastor and Sister Johnson; Brayden's parents are Terry and Melani Shock who lead KQ Ministries. May Brayden and MaKayla's talents be a great blessing to the kingdom of God. (Photo by Mehgan Fairbanks)
