By Loretta Fulton

Joe Almanza was imprisoned three different times for a total of 14 years, and then the miracle happened.

“All my life was full of sin when Jesus found me,” he said in a testimonial at Highland Church of Christ.

Almanza will give that same testimonial as guest speaker for the 60th anniversary luncheon for Christian Service Center. The luncheon begins at 11:30 a.m. Sept. 12, at the Abilene Country Club, 4039 S. Treadaway Blvd. The buffet line opens at 11 a.m. People who have helped the Christian Service Center over the past 60 years will be honored. Deadline to purchase a ticket is Wednesday, Sept. 10. Deadline to have a name listed as a table sponsor is Monday, Sept. 8. Click here for tickets. 

Joe Almanza

Almanza retired as Community Minister at Highland in 2023 after 18 years. His wife, Becky, is still at Highland and also holds the title of Community Minister. Almanza grew up in San Antonio, and his journey to Abilene is a “long God story,” which he will share at the luncheon. Growing up in San Antonio, Almanza became a heroin addict and got involved in the drug trade. He eventually served time in Texas prisons in Palestine, Richmond, and Navasota. Even after he got out of prison, a hitman had a contract on his life. 

But while in prison, he found an application to a Bible school in the trash and filled it out. It was the beginning of his “long God story.” Even though retired from Highland Church of Christ, Almanza frequently is invited to tell his story and to lead workshops and retreats. 

“When you’re down to nothing,” he said, “God is always up to something.” 

Loretta Fulton is creator and editor of Spirit of Abilene