Meet Stacey DiNardo, a CrossFit enthusiast, mother of two, wife of 24 years, and Executive Director of Ministries at Christ Community Chapel. She might seem like your everyday Ohio resident, but there's more to her story. When she first ventured to Vienna, Austria at the age of 17 to serve, she had no idea where the journey would take her.
Discover how this initial taste of missions ignited a passion that brought her to the CMI Board of Directors in 2021, and to Quito, Ecuador earlier this year.
You first heard about CMI as a staff member at Christ Community Church in Ohio. How did you go from that to becoming a CMI Board Member?
I love new things, and I love missions. Growing up with missionary family members, I've always felt called into ministry and missions. Joining the CMI Board was
another opportunity to see what the Lord is doing around the world and how I can join in. That was exciting to me.
Was there something particular that drew you to CMI?
Church planting. New churches being planted, supported, and strengthened is something I'm passionate about. Secondly, having the opportunity to learn more about Latin America was intriguing.
How has being on the CMI Board given you a new perspective regarding missions?
For me, it's CMI's strategy, hands down. I have seen a humble desire and heart to serve the people and cities through CMI's partner churches in Latin America. Being in church ministry myself and working with church leaders, I know the critical need for healthy leaders so supporting and equipping the pastors is strategic. In addition, innovations like the Seed Fund allow churches to multiply and reinvest the support we're giving them. CMI is a unique hub helping churches start and grow a strong foundation.
This year marked your first trip to Quito, Ecuador. What surprised you most?
The things we discussed in the board room burst into life. I visited all but one of the Quito churches. God has positioned every single church in a unique place in the city to reach those around them.
What happened with your host family in Quito?
Oh, my host family. This is definitely one of the biggest takeaways. They're part of the Puembo Church. Being with them, in their home, learning about their family, their
culture, laughing, and experiencing the joy and transformation they're extending to the
city was wonderful.
What stood out as you visited the various CMI partner churches in Quito?
Norte Church captivated me. They've sent some of their leaders to my church, Christ Community Chapel. So there's a relationship there. One thing that impressed me most was seeing Norte's associate pastor, Geovanny, and 150 members they sent out
to plant a new church. That's an incredible commitment to multiplication, sacrifice, and
serving others close to God's heart and His Great Commission.
What did you experience that you wish others could see, especially those from the
church in the U.S.?
These churches in Quito are passionate about not just reaching new people but about discipleship. Their Bible Academies are vibrant, robust, rich, and deeply impactful for the people in their churches. I believe that's important for multiplication. The baptisms at Cumbayá Church left an indelible impression on me. There was a testimony from one woman who had been kidnapped and another couple who almost lost their child. Through these the Lord reminded me that He is radically rescuing people's lives everywhere.
After visiting Quito, what would you say to a person who has never heard of CMI's
ministry?
CMI is about strengthening and planting life-giving churches in urban centers in Latin
America. They are a vital hub for church health, church leaders, church buildings as home bases of ministry, and moving those things forward together in innovative ways.
How would you encourage CMI supporters and partners?
I wish we could have been in Ecuador together. Your support is enabling incredible work. The Lord is multiplying your generosity to have an even greater impact than you can imagine.