Each month, Abiding Presence will highlight a Stephen Minister, showcasing their unique journey and the inspiration behind their commitment to serving the community. This month’s feature is on James Rodriguez.
Q: Tell us a little bit about yourself.
A: My mother and father were born and raised in Puerto Rico. I was born in Fort Lewis, Washington, but because my father enlisted in the Army, we moved to Germany, California, and Texas.
I attended middle school and high school in Lampasas. I’ve been in federal law enforcement for 24 years and married for over 20 years. I have two daughters (17 and 13) and a son (9).
My father-in-law was a Lutheran minister in south Texas and a personal friend of Pastor Brueggaman, the founding pastor of Abiding Presence. Pastor Brueggaman was set to officiate our wedding but injured his knee while playing tennis the week before, which continues to be a fun story to tell to this day.
Q: What do you enjoy the most about Abiding Presence?
A: I have always felt connected with APLC because the church was one of my father-in-law’s mission partners. In 2008, my wife and I moved to San Antonio from South Texas with our 2-year-old daughter. We joined APLC and found a welcoming, supportive, and caring community for our family. My second daughter and son were baptized at APLC. I’ve been on the breakfast team for over 10 years. My wife and I have represented APLC as delegates at senate assemblies.
Q: What do you do in your spare time?
A: Spending time with family and friends is important to me, as it typically looks like spending a good amount of time taxing kids to their school and sports activities.
I joke that I don’t have weekends; my kids do. I also find time to train jiujitsu throughout the week, which has been my favorite hobby for the last 11 years. When our schedules permit, great food and a glass of wine with my wife is always a treat.
Q: Tell us about your Stephen Ministry experience.
A: My mother raised my older brother and me in the church and has always had a profound faith and spirit of service. In March of 2021, my father passed away after being hospitalized with a head trauma caused by a fall. I flew from Texas to Puerto Rico to check on him but landed two hours after he passed.
In April of 2023, my mom was diagnosed with cancer. During this challenging time, my faith intervened and pushed me to give back rather than doubt and question. Stephen Ministry has given me the opportunity to give back to my church community and continue with the spirit of service, which has allowed me to honor my mom.