A God-led encounter on an online marketplace paved the way for a life-changing spiritual journey for one family, thanks to the efforts of a community-focused ministry. 

While purchasing a vehicle online, John Velazquez struck up a conversation with the seller. The two quickly discovered shared interests and values, forming an immediate connection. Before long, John extended an invitation to the seller to attend the “Breathe. Relax. Unwind – Your Mental Health Spa Experience,” a ministry founded by him and his wife Michelle, that blends practical mental health and self-care activities with spiritual lessons. The Mental Health Spa Experience was scheduled for that weekend at Hyde Park Seventh-day Adventist Church, and the seller, Jay, and his wife accepted the invitation.

According to Michelle Velazquez, the visiting couple described the event as a “wonderful experience.” The program, designed to address emotional well-being and spiritual growth using the eight laws of health, left a lasting impression. Soon after, they accepted another invitation — this time to attend church services.

On their first Sabbath visit, Jay and his wife attended together. In the weeks that followed, they began bringing their entire family. Since then, they have continued to attend services regularly and responded to altar calls.

Jay, who had previously identified as a Christian but not as an Adventist, decided to be baptized. His wife, who comes from a Hindu background, has also been participating in services. The family’s spiritual journey is ongoing, and church members continue to pray that the entire household will choose to be baptized.

For Michelle and her team, the experience affirms the mission behind the Mental Health Spa Experience.

“When we started this ministry, she said, we hoped it would become a way to lead souls to Christ. We’re seeing God use it to do exactly that.”

Over the past two years, the initiative has expanded beyond traditional church settings, reaching neighborhoods and communities that the organizers say “they never would have imagined it would go.” The program combines practical mental wellness, spiritual reflection, and community fellowship — an approach that appears to resonate with people from diverse backgrounds.

Today, Jay and his family have become active members of both the Hyde Park Seventh-day Adventist Church congregation and the Mental Health Spa Experience team. They now participate in learning and serving through the same ministry that first brought them through the church doors.

Organizers say this story serves as a reminder that meaningful connections — even those formed during everyday transactions — can open the door to transformation, faith, and community.

This story was contributed by Michelle Velazquez, Founder of Breathe. Relax. Unwind – Your Mental Health Spa Experience.