Featuring a reflection from student speaker David Chavez, the gathering highlighted the power of faith, restorative justice, and community support in the journey toward transformation.
Excell Network Community Gathers in Menlo Park to Celebrate Healing, Renewal, and Second Chances
By Bill Mallet / Julio Escobar
On Saturday, April 18, the Excell Network family gathered for a shared meal at New Community Church in Menlo Park. We are deeply grateful to NCC for their warm hospitality, the beautiful setting, and the generous, delicious meal that welcomed our community with such care.
During this Easter season, our Excell students continue to remind us of the grace of the Resurrection—a grace the Lord offers to us daily, if we are willing to empty ourselves and make room for His Spirit.
Freedom from incarceration is only the beginning of the journey. True freedom comes when the soul finds rest in God, and that peace is something each of us must seek with intention and humility.
Our student guest speaker, David Chavez, offered a powerful reflection that embodied this message of renewal. A Bay Area native, David’s journey of resilience, accountability, and hope speaks to the possibility of transformation when a person is met with dignity and opportunity. He shared how faith, community support, and a renewed sense of responsibility have guided him forward—helping him rebuild trust within his family and discover a deeper purpose.
David has dedicated himself to serving others, including his work at St. Anthony’s Foundation, where he helped create a welcoming and dignified environment for individuals experiencing homelessness. Bilingual in English and Spanish, he is known for his empathy, reliability, and strong communication skills. Looking ahead, David plans to continue his education through Rising Scholars, with the goal of majoring in social work and supporting at‑risk youth—especially those navigating the same systems he once did.
His presence reminded us that healing is not a single moment but a daily practice. The path may be long and difficult, but it leads to salvation, and we must be patient with ourselves and with one another.
Every person carries the weight of past mistakes and the shame of sin. But the message of Easter is that reconciliation is always within reach. We are called to take three courageous steps:
Ask God for forgiveness.
Seek forgiveness from those we have harmed.
Forgive ourselves, trusting that God’s mercy is greater than our failures.
May we all come to know the deep freedom that flows from reconciliation, from surrendering our lives to God, and from embracing the hope that the Resurrection promises. And may the stories of students like David continue to inspire our community to walk together toward healing, justice, and renewed purpose.
Join us for our next monthly Excell Network Breakfast in Menlo Park. We gather every month to share stories, build community, and walk together on the path of restoration. Learn more at www.sfarch.org/excellnetwork-breakfast
New Community Church, Menlo Park, California
