About a year ago, three siblings who attend Gilroy’s First
Baptist Church had an idea. They noticed that many people had free
time available on Friday nights but were dissatisfied with the
available options for relaxing.
About a year ago, three siblings who attend Gilroy’s First Baptist Church had an idea. They noticed that many people had free time available on Friday nights but were dissatisfied with the available options for relaxing.
Tired after a long week of work and unwilling to drive to San Jose to seek recreation, some found a shortage of worthwhile activities available locally.
And so, a weekly Bible study was launched. People of all age groups – older teens to seniors – began to attend, some from as far away as Hollister. The group meets from 7 to 10 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall, 8455 Wren Ave. Free light refreshments are served.
Richard Diaz, Erma Charles and Gloria Ayala describe their endeavor this way:
– A Bible study that cares about your concerns and offers love, acceptance and help.
– A group willing to bring out the best in others and to offer a fulfilling life in Christ.
– A place for practical answers, eliminating fear, anger, frustration and worry.
They have adopted the slogan: “Because you matter to God, you matter to us, and we look forward to serving you in any way we can.”
Three months ago, these leaders decided to further develop their original idea. Feeling many people who aren’t interested in studying the Bible also don’t go out on Friday nights because of a shortage of wholesome places for recreation, they have added another dimension to this ministry, a Koinonia Cafe Fellowship.
“Koinonia” is a Greek word used in the New Testament to mean “fellowship,” sharing” or “gathering.” On the fourth Friday of each month, the Bible Study is suspended. In its place is a casual time of conversation, testimony, music and eating – meant for people who don’t enjoy hanging out at bars with all the perils that can sometimes bring.
Diaz’s band Eternal Destiny, which he has been a part of for three years, has a rhythm guitar, bass, lead guitar and drum machine that combine to create a variety of music such as rhythm and blues, western and Santana-style music.
The group takes contemporary popular tunes and substitutes Christian lyrics for the original words.
Other local Christian bands that would like to perform are invited to contact Diaz at (408) 607-6605 to make arrangements to appear.
Pastor Tim Howe, whose church provides use of the Fellowship Hall for this ministry, said he is pleased to have the church’s recently renovated facility put to such a good use.
“They are making a positive contribution to the community, and I am happy to have them meet here,” he said.
Ayala said she is glad that the efforts of her, Diaz and Charles are meeting a need in the lives of South Valley residents.
“We invite everyone to come and enjoy this fellowship and music,” she said. “This is a non-threatening environment for people who don’t necessarily attend any church. Some people have already found new friendships, comfort, support and have started new beginnings to their lives.”
For more information about the Friday night Bible study or the Koinonia Cafe call (408) 847-6000 or go to www.fbcgilroy.org.
