Norma Varela, wife of Pastor Moses R. Varela, together have pastored the Apostolic Church of Yuba City in California. Sis Norma never doubted in the power and sovereignty of God. She is a cancer survivor of over 8 years and finds joy in dedicating her time and words of encouragement to those that find themselves in the battle. Sis, Norma is a volunteer for the Road to Recovery Program of the American Cancer Society. As a H.O.P.E. Ministry Representative and cancer survivor, Sis. Varela will head our Training Program. If you have desired to be used of God to minister to someone in the fight against cancer but feel inadequate to do so, we need you in our network. Sis Norma will instruct you on how to do so and the Lord will empower you to do it!.

Rita D. DeLeon retired as a legal secretary from the Law Firm of Jeffer, Mangles in June, 2007 and has devoted herself to the work of the Lord. She serves as secretary to her Pastor, Elder Ramon Alanis, East Los Angeles District. Gifted by the Lord with the gift of administration, Sis DeLeon is grateful for the privilege of serving in the following areas; Ladies District Board-Vice President/Secretary; Head Usherette-National Ladies Retreats; Secretary-National Retreat Coordination Committee; and, Secretary-Think Tank Committee. She is a graduate of the Apostolic Seminary, East Los Angeles District and holds a Bachelor's Degree in Theology. Sis DeLeon is the Secretary for H.O.P.E. Ministry. Not a cancer victim herself, her mother, Guillermina Gonzales and sisters, Alma Lenander and Magdalena Gonzales are cancer survivors and for that, she is thankful to the Lord. If anyone knows that we serve a miracle working God, she does. She encourages every Sister to get behind the Lord and H.O.P.E. Ministry to make a difference by getting involved! The Lord needs your efforts, and someone needs your compassion and words of encouragement.

Sis. Irma Soto is a single cancer survivor who has been in the battle since 1999. Her first encounter took place in July, 1999 when she received her first diagnose. She was informed by her physician that she was a Stage 3 cancer patient. Today, she has been diagnosed as a Stage 4 patient. One would think that this type of blow would knock her out but, she is still in the fight! She has never felt alone and her confidence in the Lord has increased her faith and graced her with a great attitude. She has been in the Automotive Industry for approximately 16 years and is very knowledgeable and effective in customer service. During her battle with cancer, she has found support and encouragement from her family, friends, co-workers and customers. Sis Soto has been active in the Susan Komen Foundation for the last 6 years. However, since her knowledge of H.O.P.E., has felt in her heart to give of her talents to the Women of God. She has committed her energies to the area of fundraising for H.O.P.E. Ministry. We are confident that the Lord will bless the efforts of our Fundraising Team and that we will see the Lord's financial blessing in H.O.P.E. Ministry.

Betzy is married to Bro. Felipe Diaz our HOPE web designer for 2 ½ years. They are leaders at their local church in the city of Lennox Ca. Under the ministry of her father Pastor Andres Mayoral. In 2003 Betzy was diagnosed with osteosarcoma (bone cancer) this type of cancer usually occurs on arms or legs, and is common in young people or athletes. In the case of Betzy, the tumor was found on her spine which made it more difficult to treat or remove. She was on the last stage of cancer, and there was no hope. The only option was to remove the tumor and treat with chemotherapy, but this would not cure her. Two months after, the cancer metastasized (spread) to her left breast. At this time her family and the Church joined in prayer and a miracle happened ... After two lengthy operations, 9 months of chemotherapy and 3 months of radiotherapy, the Doctors stated that there was no evidence of cancer anywhere in her body.

Linda Alvarez has been married 35 years to Minister Vincent J. Alvarez, who serves as the Administrator for the Social Assistance Department. Her desire to serve as a representative for the H.O.P.E. Ministry stems from having a compassionate heart and a desire to encourage others who are hurting. Sister Alvarez is familiar with the difficult issues women are faced with when stricken with life-changing diseases, like cancer. Having a life-changing illness herself, she understands the importance of providing support and displaying affection during these extremely difficult times. In addition, she knows and understands first hand that these illnesses take a toll on the entire family.

Frances Fernandez, President of the National Ladies Auxiliary, is the wife of Ron Fernandez, Pastor of Whittier Apostolic Faith Center in Whittier, California. Not only has she been instrumental in the ministry of their local church, she has been involved in leadership for approximately 26 years. Sis Frances is in her second term as National President and has successfully served in a variety of positions in the local, sector, district and national level of the Apostolic Assembly. She is a known conference speaker and holds a BA in Theology received from Latin America Theological Seminary (LATS). She is the proud mother of daughters Olga Noemi, married to Phillip Raya and Ruth Ann, married to Manuel Chavez. Her greatest joy, Janelle Olisa and Jarious Andrew Raya, her grandchildren.

Raquel Valverde, daughter of David & Elvira Contreras, grew up in a Pastor's home and was very involved in church activities during her youth. A graduate of El Cajon Valley High School in 1975, and attended Southwestern College and Sawyer Business College. She was an employee for the city of National City for nine years in various departments.

On December 30 1978, married Sam Valverde and later they were blessed with three wonderful children, Sam, Jr., Rachel Anne (Missy) and Timothy. The joy of motherhood was a turning point in her life and soon she dedicated herself to it wholeheartedly. Brother Valverde was asked to pastor Fontana Church and on July 30, 1984, they and their young family were installed. Raquel has continuously worked alongside her husband and has been instrumental in the conception of many ministries within the church.

Her accomplishments: Recognized speaker and director of the Pastors' Wives Seminars (H.E.R.); Women's Advisor, Fountain of Truth Church; her ideas and enthusiasm are a treat to whoever works with her. As a Cancer survivor in (date/year) , she received her healing gratefully and is thankful to God for the opportunity of seeing and living another day. .