This year has been especially meaningful for Hispanic ministry in the Texas District. As we celebrate 100 years of sharing Christ, we give thanks for God’s faithfulness through generations of pastors, church workers, congregations, and families. Having recently concluded Hispanic Heritage Month, we also look with joy at the ministries through which God continues to bring the Gospel to our communities today.

One of those ministries is Iglesia Gracia, the Hispanic ministry of Grace Lutheran Church in Arlington. Here, Vicar Roberto Espitia and Deaconess Intern Lucy Espitia serve with enthusiasm, compassion, and a deep desire to share Jesus with their neighbors. This dynamic couple is walking alongside individuals and families, nurturing a community centered on Christ and sustained by His gifts.

Their work reflects the relational character of Hispanic ministry. Sharing the Gospel involves knowing people, listening to their concerns, welcoming their questions, and accompanying them through different seasons of life. At Iglesia Gracia, these relationships create opportunities to bring the comfort of God’s Word into everyday circumstances.

At the heart of the congregation’s life is the Sunday Divine Service. Families gather to hear the Gospel in their own language, join in worship, and receive the forgiveness and comfort Christ gives. Through September 2026, the ministry reported four children baptized, an adult’s First Communion, and three new members officially welcomed. Each milestone represents a personal story and another reason to give thanks for God’s grace.

The congregation’s life together brings to mind the early Church described in Acts 2:42:

“And they devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers.”

That pattern continues throughout the week. Bible studies provide opportunities to explore Scripture, ask questions, and connect God’s promises with daily life. Some gatherings take place in cafés and restaurants, where studying the Word and praying together become part of sharing a table. These simple encounters help people grow in faith and support one another through difficulties.

Through Mujeres en Gracia, women gather for breakfasts, conversation, and prayer. Together, they consider the burdens they carry, their identity in Christ, and the assurance that God’s love does not depend on their accomplishments. Ministry with couples and families also provides opportunities to discuss communication, forgiveness, and life together, offering Christian encouragement for marriages and homes.

This care extends into the Arlington community. Soccer camps and an ongoing soccer ministry connect children and young people with Christ’s love while encouraging discipline, respect, and teamwork. English classes offer practical skills and a welcoming environment where neighbors can gain confidence for work and school. A music program nurtures the gifts of children and adults while helping participants learn and remember the words of their faith.

Other opportunities for service arise through school supply donations, hospital visits, and accompanying people through grief, illness, and crisis. These acts of mercy flow from gratitude for the salvation Christ has freely given. Through them, the congregation has opportunities to know its neighbors and share the hope found in Jesus.

The personal stories shared by the ministry reveal the importance of this presence. Ana and Francisco describe finding friends who feel like family. Lisbeth speaks of a community where she can share her faith and receive support through difficult times. Leslie first arrived with questions; now she attends with her family and gladly invites others.

As we celebrate a century of Hispanic ministry, Iglesia Gracia reminds us that this story continues in the lives of our neighbors. Please keep Roberto, Lucy, and the congregation in your prayers. May God strengthen their service, sustain them through His Word, and bring more families to hear the saving message of Jesus.

If your congregation would like to explore Hispanic ministry or ESL opportunities, please contact hispanicministry@txlcms.org. Together, we can support ministries like Iglesia Gracia and equip more servants to share Christ throughout Texas.

By Rev. Lincon Guerra
Area A Mission & Ministry Facilitator
BMA Liaison / Hispanic Min. Coordinator