The Romeros’ connection began, seemingly, of happenstance. Although they were both born in Puerto Rico, it would be many years before they met in Deltona, Florida. Javier moved to the United States of America at the age of ten, while Stephanie didn’t move until she was 25.
Their story began when a young woman named Jaritza set out to find her father. Jaritza is the sister of Jose Rivera, Javier’s best friend. In her search, Jaritza not only found her father but also discovered that she had a sister, Stephanie, who was alive and well in Puerto Rico. Eager to meet her sister, Jaritza invited Stephanie to visit her in Florida. During her visit, Stephanie attended the Iglesia Misionera Eslabón de Dios (IMED), an IPHC church in Deltona, Florida, led by Pastor Kelly Santos, Javier’s aunt. It was at this church that Stephanie and Javier, who was working as one of the youth leaders, finally crossed paths on a Friday night.
Iglesia Misionera Eslabón de Dios (IMED)
Stephanie shared that she was not interested in a relationship; she was a young mom of two who had just come out of a difficult marriage. She was, however, actively seeking the Lord and His plans for her future. When Javier was praying from the stage, she explained, “My heart was coming out of my chest.” Upon meeting Stephanie, Javier, a father of two teens at the time, felt the same pull towards her. God was moving and drawing them together in a mighty and powerful way. There is no happenstance in the Kingdom! They met in September, Stephanie moved to Florida in December, and they were married in February. A whirlwind romance for sure!
Stephanie and Javier Romero Today
Quickly, the Romeros brought their families together and began a new life. They continued in a normal, rhythmic pattern for a few years, but there were some dormant dreams that the Lord was about to breathe new life into.
The Romero Family Today: Stephanie, Javier, grandson Mateo (in Javier’s lap), son Bryan, grandson Jacob (in Bryan’s lap), son Chris, son-in-law Santiago, daughter Dominique, and son Anthony.
When they first met, Stephanie asked Javier if he had any dreams for his life that he hadn’t accomplished yet. Javier shared that he had always wanted to own his own business and felt called to serve at his church more regularly. About three years into their marriage, the Lord reminded the Romeros of these dreams. Javier and Stephanie wanted to start working towards financial freedom to move into business ownership and self-employment.
The Romeros had little debt, as they have always shied away from obtaining any extraneous bills, but they still needed to get a few things in order. They had the opportunity to attend “Financial Peace University,” the Dave Ramsey financial freedom course, with friends. They learned how to be good stewards of their money, live a contented life, and save for the future. The process of prepping for their new business took about three years. During this time, they paid off their debts and saved a significant amount of money, knowing they were entering a season of building their business that would mean a few months of lean funds.
Six years ago, the Romeros stepped out in faith and began their business, Gracious Transformations, a residential and commercial painting company.
Javier and Stephanie Working
Javier and Stephanie Working
The Romeros explained that they stay extremely busy, slowing down recently, by choice, to be more available for ministry opportunities at the church.
Living, working, and ministering together would be more than some couples could handle. The Romeros shared that many people have asked them how they do it every day. Initially, it was difficult; however, over time, as iron sharpens iron, they have learned to appreciate this time together. Javier shared: “We pray at each house we get to. We go to work together, take lunch together.” This time together is an answered prayer, and they try to remember that. Gracious Transformations has opened up so many opportunities to minister to clients; even the name “Gracious Transformations” opens the door to discuss the meaning behind the title and the transformations that only the Lord can bring about.
The Romeros Ready for Work
Javier and Stephanie have always kept sight of their ultimate goal in owning their own business: freedom to serve in ministry. As the youth pastors for IMED, they have enjoyed serving and pointing the youth to Christ. The Romeros are praying for more students to join and a deeper commitment to and relationship with Christ as they grow up in Him. Bishop Blas Ramirez, Superintendent for the Red de Ministerios Sonshine Conference, speaks highly of the Romeros: “The Romeros have done a beautiful job with our youth, and we recognize that. We have about 14 very notable leaders like them in our Sonshine Ministry Network conference. They are worthy of praise.”
Stephanie Leading Worship at a Youth Service
IMED Youth Group About to Head Out for Camp
The Romeros are looking forward to the future and seeing what God has in store for their business and ministry. They encourage anyone who has a dream to not give up on it! Instead, as they did, start planning for it. Get your finances ready. When you have freedom in your finances, you will have freedom in your life and your ministry.
