MY  STORY:

Connect Your Story to God’s Story

Your story matters at Compass Church of Monterey County. No matter where you’ve been, you belong here, and your journey is part of God’s bigger story. If you feel moved or want to talk with someone, we’re here for you.

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From Victim to Survivor

Hi, I’m Mary Alice Victorino. I was born right here in Salinas back in 1946.

Honestly, I grew up a pretty happy-go-lucky kid. Some of my favorite memories are going to the rodeo with my grandparents—just pure joy. And I loved skiing! I spent so much time up at Dodge Ridge, past Sonora. I felt free up there.

One night after work, I stopped by a ski shop in Sunnyvale. I walked in and saw this guy—something about him just caught my eye. I’ll admit, I ended up buying a new pair of skis I probably didn’t need, just because he was the one selling them! Not long after, we eloped in Reno on a ski day. I really thought I’d found the man of my dreams and that we’d live happily ever after.

Looking back, there were red flags. My parents didn’t like him, but I was convinced I could fix him—help him become the person I pictured in my mind. Instead, he started to isolate me from everyone I loved. He moved us out to Montana, where I didn’t know a soul. I was pregnant, but I kept it a secret because I was scared of how he’d react.

One day, after an argument (I can’t even remember what it was about), I told him, “My baby and I are going home.” He threw me into a wall and told me to get out. I was devastated. Being a mom was the one thing I was excited about, and he just… didn’t care. Over the years, he kept telling me, “No one will ever want you. You’re worthless. You’re stupid.” And after more than 20 years, I started believing it.

I remember one morning, after dropping the kids off at school, I walked into my bedroom. The sun was shining through the window. I got down on my knees and just cried out to God, asking Him to take my life. I was so empty.

But you know what? God heard me. Not in the way I expected—He didn’t end my life, but He did take it in a whole new direction. Looking back now, I can see that every step I took, I didn’t do it alone. God was holding my hand, even when I couldn’t feel it.

Later, I met Bill—my husband now—and we just clicked. We haven’t been apart since. We found Compass Church of Monterey County and, honestly, we never left. I don’t think I’d be here today, sharing my story, if I hadn’t found that personal relationship with Jesus.

I am so blessed to be a Christian and to be part of this church. If you’re reading this and you feel hopeless or alone, please know: your story isn’t over. You matter. You belong. God can take your life in a whole new direction, just like He did for me.