The Mission’s Steward As the grandson of the original founders, the Metzgers, Captain Steve Cody II carries forward a legacy of service that began on the Texas/Mexico border in 1959. Growing up in the heart of the ministry, Steve witnessed the original Mission in Brownsville that his grandparents started in 1965 with his uncles and aunts.  Steve has dedicated his life to maintaining that same spirit of compassionate outreach.

Accomplishments & Vision In 2020, Captain Steve spearheaded the organization’s relocation to Mercedes, TX, and modernized its 501(c)(3) status to better serve a growing community. Under his leadership, Voice of Christianity has expanded its food and clothing distribution networks and strengthened its "boots-on-the-ground" approach. He remains deeply involved in every project, from managing the VOC ranch to mentoring the next generation of leaders.

A Fourth-Generation Commitment Ryan N. Cody is the son of Captain Steve Cody II and the great-grandson of the Metzgers, the original founders of Voice of Christianity. Representing the fourth generation of his family to serve the border region, Ryan brings a lifelong passion for the ministry and a deep respect for the foundations laid by his great-grandparents over 60 years ago.

Strategic Leadership & Involvement In his role as Vice President and Director, Ryan works alongside his father to manage the organization’s daily operations and strategic growth. He is a hands-on leader, coordinating essential outreach programs and community events like the Annual Easter Party at the Park. Ryan is dedicated to ensuring that the VOC ranch remains a place of hope and practical support, blending modern efficiency with the timeless message of the Gospel.

The Heart of the Mission Guadalupe “Lupita” Cody serves as the Treasurer and a dedicated Board Member for Voice of Christianity. As the wife of Captain Steve Cody II, Lupita is a cornerstone of the ministry, balancing the vital financial oversight of the organization with a deep, personal commitment to the families and children of the Mercedes community.

Patience & Youth Advocacy Lupita’s true passion lies in working with children of all ages. Known for her immense patience and nurturing spirit, she plays a leading role in the VOC’s youth-focused initiatives. Whether she is organizing activities for the Annual Easter Party at the Park or engaging with kids during community outreach, Lupita ensures that every child feels seen, supported, and loved. Her ability to connect with the younger generation is a key part of how the mission builds a foundation of faith for the future.

Accomplishments & Involvement In addition to her work with children, Lupita manages the financial health of the VOC as its Treasurer, ensuring that every donation is used effectively to provide food, clothing, and essential staples to those in need. Her dual role as a strategic leader and a compassionate mentor makes her an invaluable part of the Cody family’s multi-generational service to the border region.

A Lifelong Partnership Richard Zavala’s connection to Voice of Christianity is rooted in a decades-long friendship with Captain Steve Cody II. Often joking that they are “brothers from a different mother,” Richard’s loyalty to the Cody family and the mission has been a constant through the years. When VOC transitioned to Mercedes, TX, Richard was among the first to step up, serving as a dedicated volunteer before being officially voted onto the Board in 2021.

Local Roots & Community Connection As a longtime resident of Mercedes and the Mid-Valley area, Richard is a cornerstone of the local community. His deep roots and extensive network of friends and colleagues make him an invaluable asset to the organization. Whether he is opening doors for new partnerships or connecting families in need with VOC’s resources, Richard’s influence helps the mission reach further into the heart of the Rio Grande Valley.

Leadership & Involvement In his role as Board Secretary, Richard provides essential oversight and organization to the VOC’s mission work. His transition from a hands-on volunteer to a key executive reflects his commitment to the "boots-on-the-ground" philosophy of the Metzger founders. Richard is a fixture at the VOC ranch and a familiar face at major community events, using his gift for connection to ensure that no one in the Mid-Valley is left without support.

Legal Expertise & Professional Stewardship Known affectionately by her friends and colleagues as “BG” or “Bea,” Beatriz Gonzalez serves as a vital legal advisor and Board Member for Voice of Christianity. With an extensive professional background working for prominent law firms in both San Antonio and Brownsville, Beatriz is the organization's "go-to" person for legal guidance. Her expertise ensures that the VOC operates with the highest standards of integrity as it continues to grow and serve the community.

The Brownsville Connection Beatriz resides in Brownsville, TX—the very city where the Metzger family opened the original mission in 1965. Her presence there serves as a living link to the organization’s heritage, bridging the history of the Brownsville mission with the current operations at the ranch in Mercedes.

Dedication & Collaboration Working in close, daily collaboration with our Treasurer, Lupita Cody, Beatriz provides the strategic support necessary to manage the complexities of a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Her sharp legal mind and her heart for the mission make her an indispensable asset to the board. Whether she is reviewing documents or offering counsel on organizational growth, Beatriz’s contribution ensures that the Cody family legacy remains protected and positioned for long-term success.

Academic Excellence & Mission Heart Audrey M. Cody, the daughter of Captain Steve Cody II and Lupita Cody, serves as the Assistant Treasurer for Voice of Christianity. A proud graduate of Mercedes High School, Audrey went on to achieve academic excellence at Texas A&M University–Kingsville, where she graduated at the top of her class with a Master’s Degree in Psychology. Her deep understanding of human behavior and her academic rigor bring a sophisticated level of insight to the VOC board.

A Life of Service Following in her mother’s footsteps, Audrey has a natural gift for working with children and a passion for spreading the Word of God. During her college years, she served as a missionary in Portland, Oregon—an experience that ignited a lifelong desire to return to the Pacific Northwest to continue her mission work. Currently residing and working in Denver, Colorado, Audrey successfully balances a demanding full-time career while remaining a daily pillar of support for the VOC mission in Mercedes.

Vision for the Future: Empowerment Through Education Audrey believes that every child deserves the opportunity to pursue their dreams through education. To turn this belief into action, she is currently spearheading the development of a VOC Scholarship Program. This initiative aims to provide local students with the financial support needed to attend college, ensuring that the next generation has the tools to succeed. Her dedication to both the spiritual and educational growth of young people makes her a vital asset to the Cody family’s multi-generational legacy.

A Bridge Between Communities Known to most as “Steve-O,” Steve K. Cody III is the eldest son of Captain Steve and Lupita Cody. Splitting his time between San Antonio and the VOC Ranch in Mercedes, Steve-O serves as a vital link for the organization’s regional outreach. While some see the four-hour drive between San Antonio and the border as a distance, Steve-O sees it as an opportunity to connect resources with those who need them most.

Compassion in Action: The Furniture Ministry One of Steve-O’s primary missions is identifying and securing donated furniture in the San Antonio area. He personally coordinates the logistics of bringing these essential items back to the Rio Grande Valley, providing beds, tables, and home essentials to families who otherwise could not afford them. His dedication ensures that a house becomes a comfortable home for the families VOC serves.

Life on the Ranch & Mentorship When he is at the VOC Ranch in Mercedes, Steve-O is in his element working with the animals and assisting with day-to-day operations. He has a unique gift for teaching young children how to interact with animals, helping them overcome their fears and develop a respect for God’s creatures. Whether he is running essential errands for the ministry or mentoring a child at the ranch, Steve-O’s presence ensures that the "boots-on-the-ground" mission of the Metzger founders continues to run smoothly and effectively.

Innovation & The Next Generation As the youngest son of Captain Steve and Lupita Cody, Max K. Cody brings a fresh, forward-looking perspective to the Voice of Christianity board. As a voting member, Max is the organization’s primary advisor on modern trends and digital engagement. Currently pursuing an education in Cybersecurity and Video Game Design, Max ensures the ministry remains connected to the interests and needs of today’s youth, bridging the gap between traditional mission work and the digital age.

Fundraising & Operational Excellence Max’s contributions to the VOC extend far beyond the digital realm. He is a driving force behind the organization’s fundraising efforts, utilizing his unique perspective to reach new audiences and secure the resources needed for the mission’s growth. On the ground at the VOC Ranch in Mercedes, Max is dedicated to the stewardship of the ministry’s physical home. He takes pride in keeping the facilities clean, organized, and in peak operational condition, ensuring a welcoming environment for every family and volunteer who visits.

A Voice for the Future With his blend of technical expertise and a "boots-on-the-ground" work ethic, Max embodies the evolution of the Cody family legacy. He is committed to ensuring that the work started by the Metzgers in 1959 remains vibrant and effective in the 21st century. Whether he is advising the board on the latest security protocols or preparing the ranch for a community event, Max’s dedication ensures that the Voice of Christianity is always ready for what’s next.