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Before giving his life to Christ, 17-year-old Fernando’s path was filled with struggle, pain, and confusion. Raised by a hard-working single mother after his father walked away, he drifted into trouble, entangled in drugs and destructive behaviors.
“I was on my way to death, but God spoke to me, saying, ‘I am not finished with you,’” Fernando recalls. “He gave me another chance to live and to spread His Word.”
Fernando’s second chance began when his desperate mother brought him to a church—Iglesia Esperanza—where Wednesday night youth Bible studies opened his heart to the gospel. Through those teachings, Fernando realized God was calling him to transformation. He accepted Christ as his Savior, was baptized by Pastor Rey Cantu, and found a new family in the church.
One of the most influential figures in Fernando’s journey has been Randy Cantu, the pastor’s son and now youth leader at Iglesia Esperanza. A former high-level advertising creative, Randy had a successful career working on major brands, crafting marketing campaigns, and directing creative projects.
But in 2024, he faced a pivotal decision. After years of feeling distant from church and struggling with his purpose, God’s call became undeniable. He was offered a lucrative job but turned it down, choosing instead to dedicate his life to ministry.
“I had a choice,” Randy said. “Continue climbing the corporate ladder or follow God’s call. I knew He was calling me to something greater.”
Randy first reconnected with ministry by helping with worship at his parents’ church, where he noticed a few young people deeply engaged in the music. Seeing their passion, he began teaching them how to play instruments, forming bonds that extended beyond worship.
This small act of mentorship soon grew into something greater.
“I saw how much they connected through music, and I realized God was calling me to invest in them,” Randy said.
“I was on my way to death, but God spoke to me, saying, ‘I am not finished with you.’"
Simple music lessons turned into deep discipleship, as Randy began leading Bible studies and mentoring young people who desperately needed guidance. His approach to discipling young people is practical. Not only does he mentor them in faith, but he also invests in their lives by teaching them music, spending time with them at school events, and simply being present.
“Every young person is different,” Randy said. “I take time to find out what their passion is. For some, it’s music. For others, it’s sports. I go to their games, take them fishing, play basketball with them. I want them to know I care about them beyond just church.”
Randy’s dedication has led to a flourishing youth ministry. What started with just three young men in high school has now grown into a vibrant group of 20, many of whom are actively serving in the church’s worship ministry. Fernando, once a lost teenager, is now playing the bass guitar for worship services, using his gift to glorify God and encourage other young people.
“God has allowed me to serve Him through music,” the teen said. “My life is much better now. I have struggles, yes, but I trust God that He will help me get through anything.”
“We want them to be not only spiritually mature, but also equipped for life.”
The impact of this youth movement extends beyond the church walls. Earlier this year, Iglesia Esperanza hosted a youth service that drew over 50 young people—a significant number for their community. Many came forward for prayer and 30 accepted Christ or rededicated their lives to Him, providing evidence of how God is stirring hearts.
The youth ministry is becoming more structured, electing officers as is common in many Hispanic churches. Students have chosen Fernando as the group’s president. Randy said Fernando is on fire for God, leading his peers with passion. It’s a passion Randy wants to see extend beyond the walls of the church.
“We want them to be not only spiritually mature, but also equipped for life,” Randy said.
Iglesia Esperanza’s mission is to bring love and hope to broken homes, and that vision is becoming a reality through its young people. They are not just attending church; they are becoming disciples, leading others, and living out the gospel.
“I am proud of them,” Randy said through tears. “Many of these youth have never heard words of affirmation at home. I make sure they know [by telling them], ‘I love you. I am praying for you. God is with you.’”
Through the faithful leadership of Randy and the commitment of young believers like Fernando, Iglesia Esperanza is witnessing a movement of God among the next generation—one that is changing lives and shaping the future of the church.
“God has a plan for me,” Fernando said. “He speaks to me in so many ways, and I know I can push through anything with the power of His Holy Spirit.”
