One Year of God's Faithfulness

^{Discussion with Pastor Justin Rodriguez - Atlantic City Baptist Church}

"This is the LORD's doing; it is marvellous in our eyes." - Ps. 118:23

It's been one year since the birth of Atlantic City Baptist Church, and it is exciting to see all that the Lord has done through the Rodriguez family during this first year. Pioneering a new local church in the Northeast is not easy—but it is absolutely necessary! Although it comes with its challenges, the blessings far outweigh them. Getting to see God's faithfulness on full display as Pastor Justin and his family faithfully serve their community has been such a blessing.

As Atlantic City Baptist Church celebrates its one-year anniversary, we wanted you to hear directly from Pastor Justin as he reflects on their first year. We pray his testimony will be a blessing and encouragement to you, stir your heart for local churches throughout the Northeast, and prompt you to pray for the Rodriguez family and others faithfully serving here in the Northeast.

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Q: What does this anniversary mean to you and your family?

_{"Our one-year anniversary is a reminder of God’s faithfulness! When we look back over this first year, we are amazed at everything God has allowed us to be a part of. What began with a burden to reach people has become a growing church family, and we are thankful for every person God has brought through our doors and every opportunity He has given us to share the Gospel. This anniversary is not only a celebration of what God has allowed us to accomplish, but more importantly, a celebration of what God has done and a reminder that there is still so much work to do!"}

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Q: Tell us a little about the city and community God has called you to reach.

_{"Atlantic City is a unique mission field, home to many individuals struggling with addiction, poverty, and homelessness. We have had the privilege of building relationships with those who are hurting and often have nowhere else to turn. At the same time, we are witnessing our city transform with new developments and businesses emerging that are bringing new residents in. We believe God has strategically placed Atlantic City Baptist Church here for such a time as this. Every person, whether struggling to find their next meal or moving into a brand-new development, needs the hope of the Gospel. Our desire is to reach every soul in Atlantic City by loving on people, building relationships, and faithfully pointing them to Christ."}

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Q: What have been some of the most encouraging moments from your first year?

_{"Over this past year, God has blessed us with countless moments that remind us of His goodness and power. From local churches joining together to help us launch with a citywide crusade, to weekly decisions being made for Christ, to the joy of serving side by side with my wife and children, every memory reflects God’s hand at work. One of the most special highlights was our first baptism service, when twelve individuals publicly followed the Lord in baptism. Each life represents a unique story of grace and transformation and is a testimony to what God is doing in Atlantic City. We’ve also seen around 30–40 people begin attending services faithfully, becoming part of our church family and serving alongside us. It’s been incredible to watch God build relationships, change hearts, and give us the opportunity to walk alongside people as they grow in Christ."}

Q: What has been one of the greatest challenges you've faced during your first year?

_{"One of our greatest challenges this past year has been finding a stable place to meet. Although God graciously provided a building where we have been able to establish a meeting location, restrictions surrounding churches in Atlantic City have made finding a long-term location difficult and limited our options. Currently, we are unable to meet earlier in the day on Sundays, and because of future plans for the building, we are not guaranteed the use of our current location much longer. Transportation is also a significant challenge in our community, as many of the people we are reaching do not have reliable access to a vehicle. We currently pick up approximately 90% of our congregation each week and bring them to church. As we look toward the future, we are praying for God to provide a permanent place to meet and the resources necessary to continue bringing people to church and reaching Atlantic City with the Gospel."}

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As Atlantic City Baptist Church enters its second year, Pastor Justin shared three specific ways we can pray:

1. A Stable Meeting Place
   
   • Pray that God would provide a long-term meeting location where we can grow and disciple believers.
2. A Church Van
   • Pray that God would provide them with another church van to help transport more people to the church each week.
3. Open Hearts to the Gospel
   • Pray that God would open and prepare the hearts of the people in Atlantic City to receive the gospel.

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We are thankful for all that God has done through Pastor Justin, his family, and Atlantic City Baptist Church during this first year. Their story is another reminder that God is still at work throughout the Northeast—and that there is still much work to be done.

As Atlantic City Baptist Church begins its second year, we ask you to join us in praying for the Rodriguez family and this growing church. Pray that the Lord will continue to open doors, provide for their needs, and allow them to reach more people in Atlantic City with the Gospel.

And as you pray for Atlantic City, would you also pray that God would raise up more laborers with a burden to pioneer churches in communities throughout the Northeast?

If you would like to provide financial support in any aspect to Pastor Justin and Atlantic City Baptist Church, please visit their Pioneer Profile page and click the 'Support Info' tab.

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_{Published by Northeast Vision | Strengthening • Supporting • Starting Churches}