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Local Reach
Bill and Mary Glidden serve in southeast Colorado, an area designated as “frontier” because of its lack of local services and its small population. On the west are mountains with over 14,000 foot peaks, dropping off into high plains on the eastern side of the community.
The area is economically depressed due to the lack of local jobs. In the past coal mines were scattered throughout the surrounding communities, but these have since closed, taking away even more jobs from local residents. The coal mines brought large groups of immigrants into the area, many of whom have remained to this day.
Many local residents have lived in this community their whole lives, and those who leave to find employment often come back to the area upon retirement. There are Italian, Slovenian, and Spanish communities in the area, resulting in a strong Catholic presence.
The number one need in the community is exposure to Jesus: both His love and the hope that comes through a relationship with Him. The community also needs an influx in local jobs, and schools that better teach children the basics. It is too common for graduates of local public schools to struggle with reading at an intermediate level.
After seeing the need in their community, the Gliddens began ministering to the area by sharing the gospel while meeting practical needs. Their ministries include a food and clothing pantry, Sunday evening worship, kid's Bible club in Aguilar, women’s Bible studies in Aguilar and Walsenburg, and one-on-discipleship.
“Our desire is to use each ministry as a conduit to live and speak Jesus into the lives of those we come in contact with,” Bill writes. “We desire to give more than a box of food or some clothing. We give love, hugs, prayers, and always point back to Jesus.”
The Gliddens have served as InFaith field staff since 2007.
Bill and Mary came to InFaith after working in the auto and tractor parts business for thirty-four years. They have two sons.
“I had for many years had a concern for the lack of ministry happening in our rural areas of this country,” Bill explains. “When we heard about InFaith, we knew this was what God had been preparing us for, and we are so blessed that InFaith has given us the opportunity to serve in the ministry God called us to.”
