The men of Set Free Church. Photo by Janna Sostre
On May 18, 2020, Pastor Daniel Sostre and his wife, Janna, relocated to Kearny. They had one mission: To establish a ward of Set Free Church.
This wasn’t just another church coming to the Copper Basin Area. What they stand for is so much more. According to Set Free’s Mission Statement, “We are a Church that will go into the highways, alleyways, and byways to reach the lost, hurting and broken people of our community and surrounding areas. The world is full of hurting and broken people who need the love of Jesus to transform their hearts and minds; we hope to be the feet that carries the good news of the gospel to them.”
The Sostres and the church have lived up to this statement time and time again. Community Outreach, Pastoral Counseling, as well as many other charitable acts are just a few things Set Free has to offer. They offer a “Residential Disciples Program” which provides Temporary Housing to those in need, rehabilitation, and job training. They work closely with the Copper Basin Chamber of Commerce and Arizona Youth Council. They are always willing to give a fellow man a helping hand where necessary. This reporter has been at the helping hands of this wonderful congregation a time or two.
Myra Warren at Norm’s Hometown Grocery said, “The men of Set Free Church have supported, through volunteerism, to Norm and I, at all of our events without hesitation, with a very giving spirit. We know for a fact we couldn’t have done it without them.”
“Set Free and their church members are absolutely amazing and always willing to serve others,” said Lisa Migliore of Gila Rose Dance Studio. “They offered their church building so we could have a dance studio in the Copper Basin Area, where there are otherwise limited buildings for use. This helps these youth have a safe place, with others that have great morals and values in their age group to form little dance families.” Lisa added, “We love and appreciate them all so much. Thank you for all you do as Jesus calls you to do so.”
John and Martha Lollis said, “Set Free Church came into our lives four years ago. They have helped with food, rides and so many prayers, empathy, compassion, hugs, and always an ear to listen no matter where they are at, what they are doing, or what time it is. We are glad to call them friends, yes, but family. Thank you, Lord, for blessing us with Set Free Church.
One of the best-known activities Set Free is known for is their Christmas Festival. Every year, they decorate in Holiday Spirit and host a Christmas party where everyone is welcome. There is music, food, fellowship, and a Toy Drive in which everyone who attends is welcome to receive free gifts for their children.
Set Free Church also offers Food Boxes for those in the community who are in need. They have a truck that brings food for distribution the last Friday of the month, but they also keep food boxes on hand for those who need it when the truck is not available. These can be picked up from the church most days.
They also offer services to people including but not limited to clean up, salvage, and construction. All they ask is for a donation to the organization to keep the Church up and running.
Nondenominational in nature, this “Sinners Welcome” church is open to everyone who may find themselves in need of guidance and resources. Set Free Church is located at 302 W. Danbury in Kearny. If you would like more information on the organization, you can reach out to them at (480) 645-7687 or (760) 238-0474.