Meet Steven Castello. He is the lead pastor of Ardent Church in Birmingham, Alabama. I have known Steven since his high school days, when he was a member of the First Baptist Church of Center Point, where I served as his pastor.
Steven and I ate lunch together yesterday. We’ve been in touch with one another since he and his family returned here from a ministry stint that took him through Alaska then to Arizona, and finally to return to Birmingham. I thoroughly enjoyed the fellowship we shared over our meal.
I introduce you to Steven because I believe in him. He has a healthy knowledge of the Scripture and his theology proves it. Steven also has a passion for developing a community of faith built on God’s Word and not man’s traditions.
I introduce you to Steven because I believe in his ministry. Steven spends countless hours each week searching and seeking the unreached people of Birmingham. One of his favorite times of the day is to hang out at local coffee shop just to strike up conversations with others in order to introduce them to Jesus. He is also serious about discipling others to be devoted followers of Jesus Christ.
I introduce you to Steven because I also believe in the mission and vision of his church. As his webpage declares, he and his small congregation are intent on embracing the city of Birmingham “with the Gospel and genuine Christ-like love for the redemption, reconciliation and revival of the people in the city for the glory of God.” He is so serious about reaching the city of Birmingham that he and his wife have purchased a house in the south side of Birmingham, just a few blocks away from UAB.
Please pray for Steven today, and his church, Ardent. Pray for their effectiveness. Pray for their perseverance. Pray for their influence for the Gospel. Pray for their protection and support. Finally, pray for a way for CrossPoint to CONNECT with Ardent to propagate the Gospel.