In late 2019, our church was able to bring on Debra Ton as the Children’s Ministries Office Manager. Hear from our new staff member as she shares more about herself and her heart for the church. 

How did you come to Evergreen SGV?

Our family began attending Evergreen SGV in August 2017, though I believe the Lord planted the seed much earlier. Shortly after we moved to our home in 2014, my husband, daughter and I began praying together for His guidance and timing as we considered finding a church closer to where we live.  We had dear friends who grew up at Evergreen, and we made many friendships and connections through MOPS/STEMS. We felt strongly after our first visit that there was no need to search any further.  Evergreen was the first and only church we visited.  The Lord blessed our transition by providing a warm and welcoming community.  He has tremendously blessed us through Biblical teaching, faithful leadership, wonderful ministries and a loving branch.  We are grateful to be a part of this church family and joyfully call Evergreen SGV home.  

How did you become involved with children’s ministries? 

I was recruited to serve as staff director for SBS in 2018 and then was asked to serve in the Pre-K/Kinder Church School class that same year.  I was later approached with the position of Children’s Ministries Office Manager in 2019. These were very unexpected opportunities, but were aligned with my heart for children.  I consider each of these opportunities as a gift from the Lord!  It is a blessing to see children growing in their love and knowledge of Christ and an honor to be able to invest in the next generation.  

What are your responsibilities as Children’s Ministries Office Manager? 

My primary role as the Children’s Ministries Office Manager included welcoming, registering and checking in families, updating information in The Vine, creating the Kids Church rosters and serving schedule and maintaining the office.  

Since the pandemic, many aspects of children’s ministries have either been suspended or modified.  Likewise, my role has evolved.  I currently assist the family pastor, Pastor Victor, by helping with email communication, children’s bulletins, and supporting Church School, including registering and welcoming new families.  Although many things have changed, our desire to walk alongside families hasn’t.  I praise God for the ways He has allowed us to continue to connect and share in the lives of these precious little ones and their families. 

How has your time on staff been so far?  

My time on staff has been amazing!  I am so grateful to be able to serve Him and the Evergreen SGV Church body.  It has been a wonderful privilege to see how God faithfully and graciously provides, and works through such a dedicated, resilient, creative, obedient and faithful group, prior to and during the pandemic. I am humbled to serve alongside people who love the Lord, His church and His people so deeply!  To Him be all glory and praise! 

by Kay Carey

During the first couple months of the pandemic, I had the opportunity to evaluate and reprioritize what I had been doing. One of the things God impressed upon my heart was to consider stepping down from staff and just serve Him as a lay person as a disciple maker. After seeking some wise counsel and much prayer, I decided to retire at age 63 from a formal staff position.   

As I reflect on my time as a ministry associate at Evergreen SGV, my heart overflows with gratitude for the blessed opportunity to grow in Jesus Christ. I give Him all the glory and honor for the wonderful time serving Him and His people.   

When I was first hired as outreach staff back in November 2006, I was going through a major transitional period of my life after returning from Costa Rica due to health issues - cancer and PPS (Post Polio Syndrome). After going through a season of treatment and healing, God opened a perfect ministry door at church. It really helped me to transition back into life in the U.S. 

I have many fond memories of ministering with many faithful people, promoting God’s great commission to the church family and equipping them to share the Gospel and His love locally, domestically and overseas in the outreach ministries. After seven years, I transitioned to discipleship/mentoring, which has been my passion for most of my Christian life. I am so grateful for all the things I learned from all the pastors and church family. Thank you so much for all your love, prayers and partnership/friendship!   

For those who are interested in knowing what I have been doing since my retirement: My daily activities have not drastically changed since my decision. I continue to disciple and mentor people as God allows and guides. I have been experiencing lots of joy and peace as I get to develop deep and meaningful relationships with family members and friends (old and new) who live near and far. 

“The Lord is faithful. He will establish you and guard you against the evil one.  May the Lord direct your hearts to the love of God and to the steadfastness of Christ.”

2 Thess. 3:3,5