As we approach the end of 2024, I’m excited to share some of the highlights from the second half of this eventful year. Despite intentionally stepping back from writing during the latter half of the year, there have been several joyous occasions and significant changes in our family’s life that I’d like to celebrate with you.
A Father’s Pride: Our Daughter’s Wedding
June brought one of the most cherished moments of my life – the marriage of our beloved daughter. As a father, witnessing your child embark on this new chapter is an indescribable mix of emotions. The day was filled with love, laughter, and the promise of a beautiful future. Seeing our daughter radiant with happiness as she began this new journey was truly a blessing, and we couldn’t be more proud of the woman she has become. It was an honor to perform their wedding ceremony for Hannah and Joseph.
New Beginnings: Our Move to Mobile, Alabama
July marked a significant transition for our family as we embarked on a new adventure in Mobile, Alabama. The decision to relocate was not made lightly, but we felt a clear calling to this vibrant city on the Gulf Coast. Mobile has welcomed us with its characteristic Southern hospitality, and we’re gradually settling into the rhythm of life in this historic port city.
A New Chapter in Ministry
Of course, we didnโt just pick up and move to Mobile without a really, really good reason! I had the privilege of joining the staff of Dauphin Way Baptist Church as their Executive Pastor in July. This opportunity to serve in such a historic and impactful church is humbling and exciting. I’m deeply grateful for the warm welcome from the congregation and look forward to contributing to the church’s mission and vision in the coming years as we help the people of Mobile and surrounding areas find their way in Godโs story.
Reflections on God’s Faithfulness
Iโm grateful to my friends at Frontline Policy Council and their president, Cole Muzio, for the opportunity this spring. His organization’s work is a reminder that Kingdom work is being done outside of the church. Iโm also thankful to my friend Dr. Emir Caner for the great privilege of leading the invocation during one of the commencement ceremonies this spring and the honor of giving my daughter her degree at graduation. It is an uncommon thing in higher education (I was also given this same honor in 2022 with our son Joshua) for which our family will be forever grateful! I would be remiss if I did not thank Dr. Bart Barber for the honor and privilege of serving Southern Baptists at this yearโs Southern Baptist Convention in Indianapolis with such amazing, godly people.
Reflecting on the past year, I’m reminded of God’s unwavering faithfulness through every transition and milestone. From celebrating our daughter’s wedding to embracing a new community and ministry role, His guidance has been evident at every step. The year is ending quite differently than it began! Melisa and I can both say without hesitation, our cups are running over!
While there have been challenges and moments of uncertainty, particularly during the professional transitions I experienced earlier in the year, these experiences have only strengthened my faith. They’ve reminded me of the importance of trusting in God’s plan, even when the path forward isn’t immediately clear (I seem to recall teaching on that very topic in recent weeks!). The joy in answering God’s call on my life has never been sweeter than it is as I write these words.
Looking Ahead
As we step into 2025, I’m filled with anticipation for what lies ahead. Our family is excited to deepen our roots in Mobile. Several months ago, after her morning walk, Melisa came in and told me, “this is what home feels like” and completely agree. We’re also excited to continue serving at Dauphin Way Baptist Church with Dr. Lee Merck and our amazing staff, where we are convinced that amazing days are on the horizon.
I look forward to reconnecting with you all more regularly through this platform in the coming year, sharing insights, reflections, and the lessons learned along this journey of faith and service. My ministry page on Facebook (not to be confused with a profile account where individuals we friend one another) has been suspended by Facebook’s AI. It seems they believe the Page may be impersonating me (don’t laugh) so I may reduce my activity there and redirect my online activities. I am active on a number of other platforms and usually found under the handle @drchrissanchez. If you’ve followed the news articles I have shared for the last 5โ6 years, I may move that to LinkedIn in 2025. If so, I will be sure to let you know.
Many friends have reached out through various means to check on us and offer encouragement throughout 2024 literally from across the US and around the world. Thank you for your continued support and prayers! I canโt possibly express in a short post how much it means to us each time I take a few moments to share them with Melisa. May the coming year bring you joy, growth in the Lord, and abundant blessings as you serve wherever He has planted you.
God bless you,
Chris