John Del Frate first came to the Antelope Valley in 1979 as a college student in NASA's co-op program. While he was in Lancaster, one of his friends from school showed him the "bridge illustration" to explain why Jesus died on the cross for his sins. John, who was raised as a Roman Catholic, had never understood the concept until that moment. A few months later, he chose to follow Jesus Christ.
He eventually landed a job at NASA, where he manages solar aircraft projects, and settled down in the AV in 1983. A Spanish speaker, he led Bible studies in that language, ministered to Spanish-speaking inmates at the Tehachapi State Prison and served as a translator on several VBC trips to Mexicali. John also participated in Evangelism Explosion at the church for about 18 years and has led a growth group for more than 12 years.
"VBC is home for me. I have never checked out other churches in the area. I never felt the need to as I felt we do things right," he says. In addition to his other ministry responsibilities, John helps his wife, Catherine, take care of a toddler class during first service. He and Catherine have four children, Andrea, Mario, Aleanna and Angelina, who he loves very much. They like camping, fishing and watching videos together.