David & Laura Gutierrez

Dave and Laura met at a prayer meeting in Sioux Center, IA, while attending Dordt College.  It was during their college years that they sensed God calling them to love those who were spiritually lost and hurting and felt compelled to serve in the inner city.  They were married in December 2001 (shortly after Dave graduated), and two years later, followed God's call to Los Angeles in the summer of 2003.  Laura had just graduated and Dave was working locally when he quit his job, packed up their things, and stepped out in faith - moving from the Midwest to the West Coast with no prospect of jobs in sight.  But as was the case with Abraham when God called him to "pack up his things and go," God did not disappoint.  Within a few months of their move, they had a place to live and were quickly connected with the ministry of World Impact.  In September 2004, Dave and Laura joined staff as full-time missionaries.

For the first 3 1/2 years of ministry, they were a part of a missionary team planting a church in Southeast Hollywood.  Their church plant, Transformations Church of Hollywood, was an outpost of the Kingdom in an area known for its drugs, gangs, cultural diversity, and acceptance of major cults and false religions.

Dave and Laura started another churching effort, Christ the Victor, in October 2009. They meet together every Sunday night in their home for worship, communion, teaching of the word, and prayer.

Dave also works with The Urban Ministry Institute of Los Angeles - World Impact's theological seminary for training local pastors and emerging leaders who want to be equipped for the work of ministry.

Our third child, Jonas Dixie Gutierrez, was born on December 29th (our 8-year wedding anniversary)!  He was born two weeks early weighing 6lbs 5oz and measuring 18 1/4 inches.  He's a great addition to our family and the kids love having a new brother in the house.