The State of Hispanic America: A Call to Live with Urgency
Summit 2008

Live with Urgency was the theme for Hispanic leaders who gathered at the Atlanta Westin to develop contextualized strategies for reaching Hispanics in North America. The conference was attended by Hispanic leaders who represented over 18 different Hispanic countries and cultures, although they currently live and serve throughout the U.S. and Canada.  

Dr. Geoff Hammond, president of NAMB, opened the summit with a message that challenged the leaders to help Southern Baptists understand that Hispanics are a diverse group of people with many unique cultures and customs. He said that it was a mistake to group all Hispanics together. Instead, missions leaders need to understand that there are vast differences among Hispanics, most of which stem from the nationality or culture of origin. He concluded his remarks by emphasizing how important it is for Southern Baptists to reach Hispanics.

Carlos Ferrer, NAMB's CFO, shared his inspirational testimony. Carlos was born in Cuba but, with the help of a Baptist family, was able to flee to the U.S. Carlos shared that God watched over him and his family through many moves across the country before finally bringing him to his current place of service at NAMB. He emphasized that God wants to use those who have immigrated to the U.S. and Canada to reach their Hispanic communities for Christ.

Dr. Johnny Hunt, the current president of the SBC, participated via video. He told participants that Hispanics play a critical and growing role in Southern Baptist life. He spoke about the efforts of his church, First Baptist Church of Woodstock, to reach the growing Hispanic population in its community. Finally, he prayed over participants and asked God to give them wisdom as they lead Southern Baptist in reaching Hispanics.

Other speakers included Dr. Rudy Gonzalez, professor of New Testament and academic dean at Southwestern Seminary, Dr. Mark Lopez, associate director of the Pew Hispanic Center, and Rev. Francisco Aular. Dr. Gonzalez challenged Hispanic leaders to fulfill the Great Commission and he shared the implications of such a ministry. Dr. Lopez gave attendees a unique perspective on Hispanic America which he gained through extensive research at the Pew Center. Finally, Franscisco Aular presented his message entitled, Action 52: A Passion for Jesus.

As the meeting concluded, participants reported to each other what they uncovered in their small group sessions. These discoveries included ideas for the development and delivery of new resources to help Hispanic leaders, as well as new strategies for ministering among Hispanic peoples. One chief lesson was that there is a great benefit in meeting together, praying together, and learning together. 

If you are interested in learning more of joining the Hispanic Church Resources Network, please send your contact information to churchplanter@namb.net.