Our Story Continues
by Javier Mendoza, Co Founder of Connect Global
I am overwhelmed today with gratitude and joy for the incredible journey that Danielle and I have been on together.
We were sharing part of our story with one of our Pastors and it prompted me to remember some of the pivotal moments we’ve experienced together. It all began back in 2005 when we kindled a relationship together amidst the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina while serving on a collaborative mission led by MorningStar Church to Slidell, Louisiana. Little did we know that this mission trip would mark the beginning of a love story and ministry journey that continues to shape our lives in ways we could never have imagined.
In 2006, surrounded by our loved ones and cherished friends we embarked on a new chapter as we exchanged our vows and became partners for life. Our personal journey has always been intertwined with our faith, and together we have walked hand in hand on a path guided by our shared purpose for 17 years.
Our calling to serve in missions has led us on incredible adventures around the world.
From Haiti to Honduras, Mexico to Thailand, and beyond, we have witnessed first hand the power of love and compassion to bring hope to those in need. Along the way, a new chapter began with the birth of ‘Connect Global,’ (2012) a vessel of our shared passion and dedication to making a positive impact on the lives of others.
In the wake of both the challenges and triumphs of the global pandemic we perservered. While living in Honduras, Danielle, Saige and I helped Connect Global quickly pivot in our ministry efforts. Leading our team we went in 100% towards immediate needs based ministry like food and water distribution as well as disaster relief in response to Hurricanes Eta & Iota.
In 2021, Danielle & I both took another step forward by becoming licensed & ordained ministers with MAJC, an amazing organization that provides us with a strong foundation of spiritual support and guidance. Our journey also found an organizational home within the loving community of LINC among amazingly anointed teachers, pastors, and pioneers. The Fellowship Network International, since our founding continues to provides legal and ministerial covering, and an over 4 decades long example of ministry success to continue learning from. These organizations along with our local church MorningStar have graciously provided us with lifelong friends, mentors, pastors, partners, and board members who help us carry out our vision and who uplift us in times of need.
Today, I am thrilled to share another milestone of our journey together.
On August 20, 2023, I accepted the incredible privilege and responsibility to serve as an Elder at MorningStar Church in Tampa, FL. This new chapter is an affirmation of the unwavering commitment we have made to share the Good News of Jesus and fulfill the Great Commission with all our hearts. MorningStar church has long been our home church even while serving thousands of miles away. They have been a sending partner who has covered us with prayer, financial support, and sound doctrinal and pastoral care. I am honored to serve our church in this capacity and look forward to all the wonderful things still ahead for this congregation.
None of this would have been possible without the support, prayers, and love of every single person who has walked alongside us. You’ve opened up your hearts, homes, and ears (I know I am long winded). Your kindness has been a constant source of strength and inspiration. Whether you’ve prayed for us, journeyed with us, or joined hands with us in giving, I want to say Thank You.
As we continue to build and expand the reach of Connect Global, we do so with an even deeper sense of purpose and determination.
The road ahead will be challenging and fulfilling, but it is our obedience to our purpose coupled with your unwavering support and the grace of God, that will enable us to face whatever comes our way.
Thank you for believing in us, for standing by us, and for being a part of our story. Together, let’s continue to spread love, hope, and compassion to every corner of the world.
Onward & Upward!
—Javier Mendoza
