Wednesday, July 3, 2002
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Wednesday, July 3, 2002 |
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Youth outreach program will feature former drug smuggler Former drug smuggler and money launderer Jorge Valdez, will be the guest speaker at a joint outreach for youth Sunday, July 14, sponsored by Braelinn Church and Coming Clean Ministries. Valdez, who once headed the U.S. operations for the Medellin Drug Cartel, will speak at all three services scheduled for 8:30, 9:30 and 11 a.m. Valdez immigrated from Cuba with his family when he was only 10 years old. He was an honor student and had planned a career in accounting. However," a spokesperson said, " a series of events changed his life forever. He became involved with the drug cartel and, by age 20, was in charge of the entire U.S. operation that included smuggling and distributing drugs and money laundering." Like most criminals, Valdez eventually got caught and spent a total of 11 years in federal prison. "However," the spokesperson continued, "unlike most criminals, Jorge spent his time wisely. He earned an undergraduate degree from Southeastern Bible College and most of his credits for a graduate degree from Wheaton College." After his release from prison, Valdez completed his graduate studies and went on to Loyola University where he earned a doctorate in New Testament theology. Valdez is the founder and principal speaker for Coming Clean Ministries in Tyrone, a nondenominational Christian ministry with the purpose of intercepting youth who are on destructive paths. The organization seeks to help youths redirect their lives and become productive members of society. The ministry conducts major youth rallies throughout the United States in addition to developing youth-oriented programs. For more information on the programs or on the ministry, call 678-817-0749. Braelinn Church is at 777 Robinson Rd. in Peachtree City. For more information, call the church office, 770-487-6691.
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