Coming from a family of 9 brother and sister, she learned to be fond of others, but her life would change unexpectedly through her service to the Lord. Born in Ensenada, Baja California to Eva Sandoval and Jesus Mariscal in 1964, Lucy Cortez spent a childhood of happiness in a city that holds a true marvel for her, the ocean. Cortez attended both elementary and junior high in Ensenada, having her heart set on supplementary education she skipped high school and moved on to the University of Baja California. There she enrolled in the nursing program, completed 3 years of course work and one year of practicals. Soon after, at the age of 19 she felt a desire to serve God and enrolled in the Theology Biblical School of Tijuana, BC where she studied to become a minister. That decision gave her life true meaning and guided her towards her soul mate. It was during this time that she met and fell in love with Ismael Cortez, also a Theology student. Consequently, in 1987 at the age of 22 Cortez married Ismael and moved to San Diego, CA under guidance of their faith. In San Diego they held a church mission for 5 years and lived very peacefully enjoying the ocean, serving Lord and helping through their ministry. However, happier times came in 1989 with the birth of their first son, Ismael Jr. and the birth of Abner in 1993. As new parents Cortez and her husband truly took pride in their children and were happy to be close to each other's family, but soon their lives took a different path. In November of 1993 the Cortez family left their beloved San Diego to start a new church mission in Douglas at Temple Bethel Church, located on #300 and 3rd. Street.

Upon their arrival in Douglas, Cortez and her husband Ismael dedicated the majority of their time to the church, but soon engaged in other endeavors. Ismael began to work in construction and the remodeling of houses and Cortez worked in a store with Maranata Ministries for 3 years. In February of 1998, their third son Uriel was born in Sierra Vista and once again Cortez turned her focus to family and church. Currently, she works with the SHIBSHOP Program once a month and her priority is to supervise all church activities. Cortez said, "Our ministry is an everyday job, even if services are only on Sundays because there are special services or activities on Wednesdays and Saturdays. The Sunday Service is from 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. and other special services or study sessions are held throughout the week." Cortez also says she spends a lot of time working with the Women and Youth ministry, because she feels a special calling towards its members.

Cortez is very thankful to the Lord for her ministry and family, she feels gifted to have such great joys. Her three sons Ismael Jr. 17, Abner 13, and Ismael are all very different but share the same sentiment towards serving the Lord. Cortez said, "Ismael has always been very responsible and hard working, at an early age he was self sufficient and independent. Now older he enjoys working with his father in construction and hopes to study Drafting at a university not too far from home." Ismael Jr. has a musical talent he shares with his church; he plays the drums, guitar and base. He is also a skate boarding fanatic and spends a lot of time and money in his hobby. Cortez says Abner really likes school, is dedicated and does very well academically. Abner likes sports and is currently playing football for Huber Junior High. He also likes music, skateboarding and helps the church music group by playing the congas. "Uriel is very active, likes to play and participate in sports. Among his hobbies are watching action movies and playing kickball, his favorite game," said Cortez.

Having a loving and supportive husband has helped Cortez adapt to every stage in her life and she feels a renewed motivation through her marriage. Cortez is very proud of her husband because he's been an exemplary father and provider. Cortez says Ismael is very responsible and patient; he loves his family and is willing to help others unconditionally. "He likes to talk with the children often and enjoys their company. He is very loving, supportive, and has a lot of patience with me. In spite of his heavy work load he always puts the family first and makes time for us," said Cortez.

Cortez considers herself a peaceful and caring person, she is very happy with life, her calling to serve God and the church. Cortez likes to go to school, study and read a lot. She hopes to further her education and takes grammar and writing courses at Cochise College. Cortez said, "I like living in Douglas, its people, and way of life because its given me the opportunity to help those in need. It's a satisfaction for me to be of great help here in Douglas." She also has great faith that counseling a person, especially the youth can change an entire life and result in happiness. "Life is beautiful and gives us opportunities to grow, but amongst all we need to remember to set our eyes and faith on God who will always be there to help and guide us. I would like for everyone to enjoy life and remember to place God above all things, so that they may live prosperous and happy lives," said Cortez.