Ryan Bareng has been a close friend to Pastor Cortez since 1995 when they first met. Though at first it was not altogether obvious, Ryan's desire to serve began to be evident over time. In fact, his passion for the Word was so strong that he began to lead Bible studies on his high school campus.

His desire took hold after watching youth group meetings led by pastor Cortez. He watched as a group of five turned to over fifty in just several months. Amazed with the idea that people do desire for answers to life's difficulties and impressed that it was a lot of his friends who were receptive to the gospel, Ryan then recognized that God had plans for him. He asked pastor Cortez to mentor him and ever since has had a strong desire to teach.

His thirst for training prompted him to apply at Bible Institute Of Los
Angeles (BIOLA). He is doing well with his studies and plans on
transferring to Talbot Seminary for graduate work. 

He is involved with Church Of Hope where he is given an opportunity to teach once a month. He teaches in sunday school as well.

We are very proud of him and are looking forward to watching God's will unravel before us for Ryan.