After seeing the need in their community, it was clear to the Eidsens why God had called them to gang ministry in Fresno. The need is great and the workers are few. God has filled them with a passion and desire to see gang members learn the value they each have in Christ. With compassion and empathy, Jeff is able to listen and provide a safe, non-judgmental atmosphere where he is able to build trust with these men’s hardened hearts. Jeff mentors and disciples men one on one and builds relationships with each one. He then has the ability to speak into them and encourages them in their faith. He also takes and accepts these men exactly where they are, some being very rough around the edges, and helps them learn how to make better choices. In most cases, individuals join the gangs in order to feel like they belong and are loved. Jeff and Cindy have seen these gang members break down in tears when they realize what unconditional love really is.
Jeff and Cindy have experience dealing with individuals struggling with affairs, drug and alcohol abuse, mental and physical abuse, pornography, and incarceration. Their ministry style is all about building relationships and trust, a vital element when working with this community. They are both warm and friendly, and have a desire to help through listening and sharing what they have learned over the years.
Jeff and Cindy have also been called to minister to couples whose relationships are in crisis. They received training from Dr. Les and Leslie Parrott’s Marriage Mentoring Academy, and have been working with couples in crisis since 2005.
Jeff and Cindy have also begun a new ministry they refer to as “Meals on Heels”. Cindy cooks and provides meals to those in need in their neighborhood and Jeff walks them over and delivers them. This gives Jeff an opportunity to build relationships and pray with and for their neighbors.
