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IN THIS ISSUE: From Trauma to Triumph | Generations for Revival | Giving All Praise to God . . . and more!COMMUNICATIONS STAFF: COME SERVE WITH US! Interested in joining one of our Communications Volunteer teams? Visit shepherds.org/ministry-teams for details. COMMUNICATIONS VOLUNTEERS: Thanks to the many talented people who volunteer throughout the year. These include photographers, writers, chalk artists, and those that help with Bumper Crop. Kent Perigo Communications Director Susan Benner Communications Coordinator Editor/Staff Writer Zac Coleman Graphic Designer/Photographer Kirsten Roberson Graphic Designer Katie Horton Lead Videographer Cheryl Coleman Strategic and External Communications 1 Letter from Pastor Davey 2-5 For Generations—Laying the Groundwork in 2026 6-8 Martina Gonzales: From Trauma to Triumph 9-11 Melvin Duckenfield: Giving All Praise to God 12-14 For Generations: Faithful Women Sharing God’s Mighty Deeds 15 Children’s Ministry: Raising a Generation that Knows God, Thinks Biblically, and Lives Wisely 16 Student Ministry Update 17 College Ministry: Killing Zombies 18-20 Generations for Revival: A Conversation with Nancy Mazzocchi 21-23 Maya Clark: Called Back to Where Her Story Began 24-25 Upcoming EventsBeloved, A few weeks ago, I read a report on the most downloaded Bible verses of 2025, drawn from numerous Christian Bible apps. People from all over the world—hundreds of millions of them—turned to online biblical resources to look up verses they needed to read. One family of Bible apps, YouVersion, has been installed on one billion devices worldwide. The top verse searched on their platforms was Isaiah 41:10, where God delivers this promise: “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God.” In addition, Bible Gateway recorded several billion visits in 2025, and its top search was Psalm 23:4, where David writes, “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for You are with me.” I found it striking that billions of people sought biblical reassurance as they faced an uncertain future. Those billions of searches remind us that our world is lost and in need of answers—solid answers from someone other than a politician, an educator, or even a religious leader. The heart of man knows that God’s Word is truth, and that hearing from God is the greatest reassurance any soul could ever receive. Their questions and fears behind those searches represent an open door for ministry, referenced in the Lord’s letter to the first- century church in Philadelphia (Revelation 3:8). How wonderful it is to know that we have the answer because we are following the Good Shepherd. Our lives are in His hands. While He may give us more than we feel we can handle, He has promised to enable us to handle all that He gives. I’m excited to see our church embracing new challenges that have come with growth. We’re poised to build new buildings in the near future, while continuing to reach our mission field in the present. Last year, our ESL program introduced 500 people to the gospel as they arrived on campus for English lessons. They represented 70 nations and spoke 40 different languages! Our Spring Fling and Fall Fest welcomed 8,000 people to our campus. I’ve already interviewed people who attended Greenhouse last fall who were introduced to Shepherd’s through these events. The opportunities of our “open door of ministry” are massive . . . the potential for spiritual fruit is incredible . . . and the prospects of ministry together as a church family are exciting. But let’s not forget this simple truth: people are uncertain about their future and afraid of what it might hold. They are searching websites for answers. We happen to have the answer—we know the Good Shepherd personally. So, let’s buckle up and move forward together, embracing every opportunity to introduce our Shepherd to our world! Here we go, 1L ast September, Pastor Davey shared an exciting vision with our church family: expanding our campus to meet needs we are already experiencing—and those we anticipate in the years ahead. Since then, many conversations, meetings, prayers, financial commitments, and thoughtful questions have followed. This article reflects on—and reminds us of—why we are taking this next step of faith together at this time. At its heart, this expansion is not about buildings or budgets, but about stewardship and faithfulness. It reflects our desire to care wisely for what the Lord has placed in our hands and to prepare space for the work He continues to do among us. It is about making room for children to be grounded in God’s Word, for students to be discipled, for adults to grow together in Christ, and for those who have not yet stepped inside our church— many of whom may hear the gospel for the first time. Why Now? Throughout the week, our campus is full of activity, and several spaces have reached capacity. We are out of room for some of our growing ABFs; Children’s Ministry classrooms are full; nursery space is limited; and Sunday services are increasingly crowded. Even after adding parking spaces in recent years, many still circle the lot looking for a place to park. By Susan Benner, Staff Writer At Shepherd’s, I’ve learned that growing alongside believers of different generations is central to how our church body functions. My family has been impacted by ministry that occurs far beyond Sunday morningfrom coaches connecting on-field experiences to Bible lessons, to leaders sharing hard-learned Christian life lessons around the campfire. And the growth happens both ways: a seminary student may better understand his calling after a teenager’s difficult questions, while a seasoned believer may appreciate their spiritual gifts anew while mentoring another adult serving in ministry. I’m grateful that age is never a limit to how you can serve and grow at Shepherd’s. “The Lord continues to bring more people to The Shepherd’s Church due to Stephen’s faithful commitment to biblical preaching,” says Rich Main, chairman of the elders. “We are experiencing growth across the breadth of our ministries at the church and sense the Lord’s leading to expand. Our congregation has risen to the challenge of similar calls in the past, and we now enjoy the fruit of their generosity. We believe that it’s now our turn to make room for the next generation of believers to be welcomed into our church family. We’re excited to take this step of faith, and look forward expectantly to see how the Lord will bless our efforts in the years to come.” More Than a Building The proposed expansion completes the campus master plan introduced years ago and directly addresses the needs mentioned before: additional parking, expanded educational spaces for all ages, increased nursery capacity, and a new worship center that will double our current seating. 2One of the most significant features of this project is something we’ve never truly had before—a clear front entrance. This welcoming, visible point of arrival from Tryon Road, will serve both a practical and symbolic purpose, signaling hospitality, clarity, and intentionality as people step onto our campus. I’ve experienced community and growth in nearly every stage of life while growing up at Shepherd’s. Through the teaching of Pastor Daveyas well as the investment of Sunday School teachers, youth pastors and leaders, college pastors, and mentorsthe Lord has used this church family to shape me into who I am today. Now, my wife and I are involved in the Home Builders ABF and continue to experience community and meaningful growth. I’ve always enjoyed and admired the consistent teaching and learning opportunities at Shepherd’s. Faith grows through knowledge and obedience, and I’m grateful to be part of a church that provides opportunities to learn and serve. I love my church family at Shepherd’sThey have been a consistent source of happiness, guidance, encouragement, and strength over the years. Because this church puts Christ and the Word first, I’m confident God will continue to bless it for generations to come. From a real estate development perspective, he notes that “the design is shaped first and foremost by its purpose—supporting congregational worship, the clear teaching of God’s Word, and a welcoming environment for all who enter.” Scott, who brings vast experience to the project, shares that “from the beginning, our design goals have emphasized wise stewardship—prioritizing durability, flexibility, and long-term value—so that our facilities serve the mission of The Shepherd’s Church well without unnecessary excess.” That intentionality is reflected in practical details, from improved sightlines and acoustics to increased seating and accessibility—all designed to help every person engage fully in worship without distraction. “The goal,” Scott says, “is not simply to create a larger space, but one that supports the clear teaching of God’s Word, congregational singing, and meaningful participation in worship.” Scott also adds that beauty was an important consideration. “We believe that beauty in design matters—not as an end in itself, but as a reflection of God’s creative nature and His excellence in all things. By pursuing a thoughtful balance of function and beauty, the design points to the glory of the Creator we worship and supports the life of the church for generations to come.” A Familiar Step of Faith The estimated cost of this expansion—approximately $55 million—can feel overwhelming at first glance. But when we look back, we see a familiar pattern of God’s faithfulness. Inside, plans include a large, connected lobby space designed to encourage movement, connection, and fellowship—making it easier for people to worship together, move between ministries, and feel at home. The expansion also includes a designated Worship Center that no longer doubles as a gym. This frees up our current space for more utilization by our Sports Ministry, as well as by our kids and teens. While plans are still being discussed, the new Worship Center is expected to include stadium seating with a capacity of at least 2,000. “As elders, we have given careful thought to the design of the new Worship Center,” says elder Scott Dixon. 3God’s faithfulness has continually provided everything needed for our ever-growing church. From meeting in a middle school band room, to the first building on Tryon Road, to our current facility and multiple expansionsincluding the proposed new sanctuary and additional ministry spacesHe has proven Himself faithful time and time again. That same faithfulness is evident in the way The Shepherd’s Church and Shepherds Seminary have served every generation. My own family has been blessed with a church home for our five children and 14 grandchildren over the past 34 years; today, one family is serving with Trans World Radio, one son is in the Shepherds Seminary DMin program, a grandson is in the Laramie one-year master’s program, and a daughter is teaching Sunday School at Shepherd’s. God is good! I’ve seen God’s faithfulness at work at Shepherd’s through people who have consistently poured into my life and pointed me toward Christ from childhood through adulthood. Growing up here helped me to discover both my faith and true community, and it taught me that the Church is not a building, but the people living out God’s work together as part of the global body of Christ. Shepherd’s has challenged me spiritually, emotionally, and practically while giving me space to grow, ask questions, and learn who I am in Christ and as part of His body. And as our church continues to grow, I pray we approach our new building designs with thoughtfulness, trusting in God’s wisdom and discernment every step of the way. he believes that this one will be no different because “nothing is impossible with our God.” He wants the congregation to know that “Previous steps of faith have helped shape the spiritual health and unity of our church. As the apostle Paul reminds us, ‘To this end we toil and strive, because we have our hope set on the living God’” (I Timothy 4:6-10). Our church leadership believes that God has been faithful before, and believes He will be faithful again. For This Generation—and the Next We are calling this initiative Generations because that is exactly what is at stake. We want to reach this generation with the gospel and equip generations to come to carry that truth forward. Psalm 145:4 reminds us, “One generation shall commend your works to another, and shall declare your mighty acts.” This project is an act of obedience rooted in that calling. When our church first gathered in a schoolhouse, a small group of believers stepped out in faith on a building project that was six times the annual budget. Years later, when God led us to this property on Tryon Road, that same ratio remained. And today, with an annual budget just over $9 million, we again find ourselves standing at a similar threshold. Looking back on more than three decades of church life, elder Elmer Dixon—who joined the congregation in 1992—marvels at what God has done through each season of growth. “In reflecting on the historical building campaigns and the significance of The Shepherds Church in our community, it’s nothing short of amazing and miraculous. As we celebrate our 40th anniversary this year, I can see a common thread running through every campaign—the undeniable generosity of God’s people.” Elmer notes that each building campaign has been marked by God’s faithfulness, grace and mercy and 4When our family moved here from a large church in South Florida, the church was meeting at East Cary Middle School. At the time, our two oldest boys were in elementary school, and the youngest was three. Since the beginning, opportunities to serve have blessed us all. Several times, my husband Jim and I led a video series on parenting. Our children later became active in Christian leadership while at NCSU, and two of them now serve as ushers alongside my husband. I have the privilege of greeting at the door each week. As we continue to grow and expand, I pray that these greetings show our love to all who attend The Shepherd’s Church! Investing in the next generation is so important here at Shepherd’s. We have raised our four daughters in this church, where they have been consistently fed the truth of God’s Word and have grown in their walk with the LORD through many programs, including Awana, Sports Ministry, children and youth choirs, and Student Ministry! As their parents, we have loved serving in many of these ministries, and now I have the privilege of leading the Mom to Mom Ministry, where we come alongside younger mothersencouraging them in their Christian walk through the Word of God and the fellowship of other godly women. This ministry has doubled over the past seven years, and we look forward to the future expansion of our church so we can have the space to serve even more mothers and children! Moving Forward Chief Administrative Officer Kevin Welch calls the church’s achievement of its one-million-dollar goal by January 1 a powerful testimony to God’s faithfulness and the generous spirit of the Shepherd’s flock. These contributions allow the team to “move full steam ahead” as they develop detailed designs and prepare to file a development plan with the Town of Cary by early summer. He also noted that the projected timeline—from project approval through construction—is approximately three years, meaning The Shepherd’s Church has something very exciting to anticipate in 2029. Kevin added, “In the months ahead, there will be more information, clearer plans, and continued opportunities to pray and participate. For now, pray for the project approval process with the Town of Cary and for wisdom and foresight with all the design details.” He emphasized that “there is no pledging at this time—only an invitation to give prayerfully and sacrificially, above and beyond regular giving, as we continue this campaign together.” This expansion project is a step of faith—and we are taking it together, for the glory of God, for our community, and for generations to come. Go to shepherds.org/generations to donate online or get more information about other ways to give. Sunday Offering By Mail Stocks & Securities Ways to Give 5M artina Gonzales was born in Abilene, Texas, to parents of Mexican heritage. She did not grow up in a “religious” home: her mother, though identifying as Catholic, attended church only on holidays, and her father not at all. At 14, Martina became disillusioned by what she saw as duplicity among churchgoers and told her mother she didn’t want to return. Her mother replied, “That’s fine, but you should go to some church.” The next Sunday, Martina attended a Baptist church and encountered something entirely new. “People came with their Bibles; children were in their classes learning about God . . . everyone really seemed to want to be there. I got that taste, and that never really left me.” Though it was her first true exposure to the gospel, she didn’t commit her life to Christ then. Instead, she followed the world’s path, which left her empty. By 19, now a single mother of two, she was searching again. She regularly took her children to a pediatrician whose wife worked alongside him in the office. While the doctor cared for the children, his wife ministered to their families. Over time, they grew close, and one day the couple invited Martina to their church. She went, and soon they began discipling her—welcoming her to their home and teaching her the Word. One day, the doctor asked, “Do you understand what we’ve been sharing with you about the gospel? Would you like to commit your life to Christ?” When he spoke of “new life in Christ,” she thought, “Man, I need a new life, because mine is pretty messed up!” She committed her life to Christ and began walking in newfound faith and joy. By Sarah Wilkins, Contributing Writer When he spoke of “new life in Christ,” she thought, “Man, I need a new life, because mine is pretty messed up!” 6Soon after, however, three men from the church came to her home, offering pharisaical “counsel” about her past sins, leaving her confused about God’s forgiveness. Though the couple who had lovingly shepherded her tried to reassure her that God forgives all sins when we repent and trust in His sacrifice, the damage was done. Martina withdrew and stayed away from church for 19 years. In 1995, a coworker invited her to Shepherd’s. Here, she heard the truth of 1 John 1:9 —“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness”—and realized God forgives all who repent. With renewed assurance, Martina began walking with Jesus again. Martina became involved in ministries at Shepherd’s, including Women’s’ Ministry and the early ESL ministry, which grew from a small group at an apartment complex clubhouse to a multi-nation outreach on campus. Though her life now felt purposeful, she longed for her children to know Christ and prayed earnestly for their salvation—never imagining how God would answer. In 2004, while listening to a woman share her testimony about a difficult trial, Martina silently prayed, “God, would I be able to handle something like this without losing my faith?” She did not realize that within just two months, she would learn the answer. On October 11, 2004, Martina parked her car in downtown Raleigh and began her usual walk to her office. Her early-morning drives and quiet walks were also her daily prayer time. Around 6:15 am, as she crossed the street, headlights suddenly appeared in the corner of her eye. She turned to run back to the sidewalk, but before she could react, an oncoming vehicle slammed into her, throwing her onto the hood. Clinging for life, she prayed, “God, if You don’t get me out of this soon, I’m going to meet You in a few minutes.” She felt ready to meet Him, but her children were not yet saved. Even as her life seemed to flash before her eyes, she felt a sustaining peace: God would be with her, and He could accomplish their salvation—with or without her. Moments later—whether she let go or the driver swerved—she was thrown from the car and landed in the road as the driver sped off, never to be found. Half-conscious and bleeding profusely from her leg, Martina lay helpless in the street. A school bus turned onto the street and drove toward her. The driver initially assumed the obstacle in the road was something other than a person and drove around it—until, through an open window, she heard cries for help. By God’s providence, she stopped immediately, parked the bus to shield Martina from any oncoming traffic, and called 9-1-1. Martina was rushed to a nearby hospital in critical condition. She was losing blood rapidly, and her leg was severely damaged. Doctors recommended amputation, but her family sought a second opinion and refused consent. Because her condition was so severe, Martina was placed in a medically induced coma for three weeks. During this time, the body of Christ at Shepherd’s rallied around Martina’s family—two sisters and three children—covering them in prayer and support. Miraculously, Martina’s leg was saved, and she made a near-complete recovery. Even more incredible, all three of her children and one sister became believers after watching Martina’s steadfast faith through her suffering. They saw she had not renounced her faith Clinging for life, she prayed, “God, if You don’t get me out of this soon, I’m going to meet You in a few minutes.” Martina and Her Family in NCMartina and Her Family in TX 7Next >