Tiffany Krahn and Harold Espinosa from Sixteen13 Ministry are excited about taking part in Morden’s highly anticipated Pop Culture Expo this weekend (Sept. 28-29). The event promises to bring together gaming, pop culture, and ministry outreach, with Krahn leading the charge in the gaming department and Espinosa guiding the broader vision of the ministry.
Tiffany Krahn’s gaming passion
As the ministry’s Vice President and a lifelong gamer, Tiffany’s excitement for the Pop Culture Expo was clear. "I grew up playing N64 and PlayStation, so it’s really exciting to bring that love of gaming into our outreach work,” she shared.
At the Expo, Krahn will oversee gaming sessions, including Mario Kart and Super Smash Bros., while showcasing how Sixteen13 Ministry can combine fun with meaningful community engagement.
Growth of Sixteen13 Ministry
Harold Espinosa provided updates on the ministry's progress over the last few years. “God has stretched us beyond our comfort zone,” Espinosa reflected. He explained how Sixteen13 Ministry has expanded its work, providing support to immigrant families from places like Ukraine, Turkey, Mexico, and also helping Canadian single mothers. "We’re helping over 200 families now, and we’ve started two Ukrainian churches," he shared, emphasizing that the ministry is about building relationships and walking with people through their struggles.
Sixteen13 Ministry has also focused on discipleship, pairing new believers with seasoned mentors. "We’ve had seven people accept Christ and over eight baptisms, but it’s the ongoing discipleship and community building that make it all special," Espinosa said.
Etherlan: Connecting through gaming
Espinosa shared that Etherlan, the gaming branch of the ministry, will play a significant role in the event. Etherlan, started by Espinosa and Hank Wall (president of Valley Fiber) about 20 years ago, which aims to use gaming as a way to connect people. “Gaming can be isolating, but we want to show people that they’re not alone,” Espinosa explained.
He shared a touching story about a young man who had isolated himself for years but was eventually brought out of his room by Etherlan’s welcoming community. "That’s what this is all about—through gaming, people find connection, hope, and even come to Christ."
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Settlers of Catan tournament
One of the highlights of the Pop Culture Expo will be a Settlers of Catan tournament, where Espinosa’s competitive spirit will shine. "It’s a very family-friendly game that involves trading, bartering, and a little bit of threatening," he joked. The tournament is open to everyone, with registration at 12:30 PM and prizes for the top four winners. “It’s all in good fun, but we definitely get competitive,” Espinosa laughed.
He emphasized that the event, while fun, serves a deeper purpose. “We want to create a safe and welcoming environment, where people of all ages can connect over gaming and be reminded that they’re part of a community."
Sixteen13 ministry's mission: Reaching people through relationships
Reflecting on the broader mission of Sixteen13 Ministry, Espinosa emphasized that the organization’s goal is to reach people where they are—whether it’s through gaming or direct community outreach. "We know that through Jesus Christ, people can find self-esteem, purpose, and love from the inside out," he said.
He also noted that Etherlan will continue its work beyond the Pop Culture Expo. “We’re restarting our gaming events in October, with a focus on creating safe, family-friendly environments."
For details on Etherlan, click here: Gaming | Etherlan
For more information on the Sixteen13 Ministry and how to get involved, visit Sixteen13 Ministry – Genesis 16:13, or visit Harold Espinosa and Tiffany Krahn at the Pop Culture Expo this weekend for some fun, gaming, and fellowship.