Answering the Call: Alfred and Michael’s Story of Transformation

“One day, I was driving around and speaking to the Lord. I said, ‘God, I need You to find me some way to serve You.’ He led me to the Good News Rescue Mission.”

With a heart for missions but limited by COVID-19, Alfred Celador shifted from international trips to local opportunities. Pandemic restrictions had canceled his missions to Belize and Yucatan, Mexico. Wanting to pour into his own community, Alfred asked God for direction—and the Lord led him to serve locally, with no clear plan.

One day, while visiting Breslauer Camp with Paul Abbott, Alfred met Michael Williamson. Michael described himself as hopeless and disheartened. Alfred recalls an instant connection. They bonded quickly, mostly over humor. As their relationship grew, Alfred began talking to Michael about recovery. Prompted by the Holy Spirit, he helped Michael enroll in Visions of the Cross and sponsored him throughout the program. He mentored him, discussed life and Scripture, and accompanied him to appointments.

“It really fulfills my heart,” Alfred said. “It’s what it’s all about—to be there for them so they see hope, feel encouraged, and know someone cares.”

Alfred became the support system that sparked Michael’s growth. He welcomed him into a committed community and walked alongside him through the challenges of recovery, celebrating the ways God showed up, usually over a banana split.

The transformation has been remarkable. Michael is now a leading voice for the homeless in our city. He has spoken before city council and won over skeptics of local programs supporting the unhoused community.

But the connection went both ways. Alfred reflected, “God has used Michael for me. It has grown my compassion and humility. It isn’t about me anymore. Denying myself and taking up my cross was hard—but it gets easier.”

Their relationship has taken Alfred’s faith into the streets. He gives his time, resources, and heart to love and disciple those hungry for community and transformation.

“I haven’t been happier in my 73 years. God has changed me—not just for the homeless, but in my marriage, with my family, my grandchildren—everything. It has humbled me and spilled into everyday life.”

Alfred said, “God doesn’t just want us to be fed in church buildings. The real battle is out there. What are we going to do—ignore it and let others handle it? Churches need to ask, ‘What do we need to do as a church?’”

What about the hungry, the thirsty, the sick, or those in the hospital? Are we feeding them, giving them water, visiting them as in Matthew 25? Being Christ’s hands and feet, giving up our own rights, and letting the Holy Spirit work through us transforms not only our communities but ourselves. Once we answer the call, there’s no turning back.

Alfred remains a committed advocate for the unhoused community, mentoring individuals and inviting them into relationships. Michael continues to thrive, giving back as a transformed individual.

Alfred and Michael’s story shows the ripple effect of faith and compassion. Transformation begins when someone shows up with heart, time, and care. Serving others isn’t just charity—it’s a pathway to renewal, hope, and a tangible demonstration of God’s Kingdom. When faith moves beyond church walls and into the streets, lives are changed—one person at a time.

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