Austin Valdepena has a special connection to Freedom Church. In 2013 while he was pursuing his interest in media work, Austin was helping a friend move to the area and that friend invited him to Freedom Church to check out the media team. During his visit he met Jamie. He had been attending a church closer to his home, but there was just something about Jamie…so he decided to continue attending Freedom. Later that year Austin and Jamie were married by Pastor Kendall in the very spot they had met in the foyer. Since then, they have built strong relationships with many others at the church. Their friends have prayed for them, supported them through many milestones, invested time in life groups and multiple areas of serving together in the church.

Austin enjoys working in the restaurant and service industry. He recognizes that it can demand much of your time and life. Earlier this year he decided to take a step back and re-prioritize his focus, making time with his family a top priority. He says it has been very rewarding, as it has allowed him to be fully present in his marriage and in the lives of his daughters, Matilda and Charlotte.

Austin gave his life to Christ at the age of 18. He recalls working at a hotel and getting to know a couple who regularly visited the hotel to have breakfast. Don was always talking about Jesus and what Jesus had done in his life. This impacted Austin deeply. His hunger to know more grew as Don began to mentor him. Austin started by reading the book of John, and from there he has continued to learn, grow, and strengthen his relationship with Christ.

Austin, we are so glad God brought you to Freedom Church! Thank you for being a part of our church family!