News & Information

December 2006

Article published by Florida Christian News - www.floridachristiannews.com. Reporter - Lisa Folch

CROSS LINK MINISTRY LINKS GOD WITH UNEMPLOYED

Whether you are in need of employment or a good employee, there is a new ministry that will cater to both and bring encouragement along the way.

The Cross Link Ministry was birthed by Jose and Kim Carbia in July. Waiting for God’s timing, they were able to launch a Career Ministry at Metro Church in Winter Springs where they worship. “This ministry was created to help individuals succeed in their ability to secure employment by providing hope, resources and information”, stated Jose Carbia. Meeting every Wed. night at 7pm at the church, this ministry is open to anyone in the community who needs employment. The Carbia’s believe the church should reach out to help during employment crisis, and encourage them through prayer. They believe this could be a bridge to sharing the love of Christ.

Both Jose and Kim have years of experience in the staffing field and are able to teach basic skills to those in need of a job. Discussions on writing a resume, how to interview, and job searching are just a few of the topics covered. They provide information and resources necessary to find a job. Encouragement comes from the group as they exchange ideas. Pre & post employment training give tools necessary to meet their employment goals. “This ministry also offers an opportunity for individuals to network with each other and to support each other through prayer”, added Jose Carbia.

Last September, the Carbia’s launched theCrossLinkNetwork.com, which is a Christian based “career management resource” website. Resources, like a book store where employment advice abounds along with practical tools like the “resume wizard” all help find the best suited career. The applicants can post their resume and gain instant access to all levels of employment. Christian, faith-based organizations provide opportunities for job seekers.

As an employer seeking qualified candidates for a job opening, this website provides a “diversified talent pool of professionals with strong values and high ethical standards through Christian faith”, noted Mr. Carbia. When they post jobs on the website, it gives information on all the people registered with theCrossLinkNetwork.com. Some may be unemployed, or underemployed, or perhaps want a career change; however, they all stand for values and morality that will transfer to the workplace.

Word is getting out about the ministry and website by networking and word-of-mouth. Investors are needed to help market the website. At this point the geographical focus for the site is Central Florida, but eventually the Carbia’s would like to see this outreach become the number one resource for churches and other faith-based organizations to help others with employment needs. With positions from warehouse to executive, technical, teaching and jobs within the church, this website provides a diverse catalyst for finding the right career.

The Cross Link Career Ministry has helped homemakers re-enter the workforce, teaching computer skills to help in their pursuit. One woman came out of an abusive situation and had never been employed. This ministry showed her how to make it in the work world. College graduates have been shown how to be set apart from the plethora of other grads grasping for the same job. High school grads are given career assessments. Carbia said the best result of this ministry is sowing seeds for Christ. “That’s what this is truly all about”, he said.

The Carbias have a vision to help people find right employment and help faith-based companies find key employees. What started as a career ministry at their church has spread to a website supporting the needs of the faithful. Carbia said, “This website will inspire people through testimonials, link people through the cross, educate people through resources, and serve people that need Christ. Our goal is to link careers through the Cross!”

For more information on The Cross Link Career Ministry at Metro Church, go to www.metrocc.org. or call (407) 366-7714. To register with TheCrossLinkNetwork as an employee or employer, please go to www.theCrossLinkNetwork.com.