In what Sandy Roelofs said is God’s plan for her family of six, another place has been added at the table for Gabe Mateo, a friend and soccer teammate of her son Trent.
Sandy and husband Doug’s four children all attend The Potter’s House Christian School in Grand Rapids, Mich., a school that is deliberately inclusive of students from all ethnic backgrounds and income levels. That is where Trent met Gabe.
Gabe’s mom, Minerva Mateo, supported Gabe joining the Roelofs family so he’ll have more structure and make better school decisions. “They are a good family,” she said “I want him to be a good person, help people, have a better life.”
“I’m happy and proud of myself, and my mom is proud of me,” said Gabe. “She says to take this as a gift—I’m so thankful.”
Gabe has many hopes for the future, including playing soccer at Michigan State University and becoming a cardiologist. “My mom’s [family] have really bad heart problems,” he said. “The Roelofs have this special formula for me. It’s hard to put into words. They offer me a lot of help.”
“This whole thing is just love,” said Doug Roelofs, “Christ’s love for us. Gabe is a son.”
The Roelofs are members of EverGreen Christian Reformed Church in Hudsonville, Mich.
