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"We are listening," LifeWay's Rainer tells leaders of Hispanic consortium
Reaching Hispanic population characterized by challenges, opportunities.
LifeWay sponsored the three-day event, hosting leaders from entities across the Southern Baptist Convention, including the International Mission Board, the North American Mission Board, Guidestone Financial Resources and others.
"The purpose of this annual gathering," said Luis López, director for LifeWay Español, "is to collaborate together, discuss partnerships and create synergy among SBC entities in order to serve the Hispanic church."
Central to the meeting, López noted, is the discussion of Hispanic realities in North America that includes statistics, trends, challenges and opportunities that affect Southern Baptists seeking to reach the Hispanic population with the gospel.
"LifeWay is listening to this research," Rainer said, "so that we might better offer resources to meet these realities."
He named four important messages that LifeWay is hearing from Hispanic churches and ministries:
- Contextualized resources are needed. Since the national origins of Hispanic individuals are diverse, church leaders and ministries need resources that "speak to" individuals from Cuba, Puerto Rico, Mexico, South America and other areas.
- The multigenerational nature of the Hispanic population creates challenges. The Hispanic population features the largest percentage of children and youth of any ethnic group, which presents significant challenges and opportunities for evangelism and discipleship.
- High value and importance is placed on family. Hispanic individuals are overwhelmingly committed to strong family ties and the preservation of family values. They are more likely to marry and have children than other Americans, which presents a great opportunity for ministry, evangelism and discipleship.
- Evangelism is important. The Hispanic population is growing rapidly – more quickly than any other ethnic group in America. Many are culturally religious already, and they are often open to the gospel presentation and discussions of faith. This is true particularly among children and youth.
"We are listening," Rainer said. "Who knows what God can do with all our efforts? But I hope we all recognize the incredible growth of the Hispanic community and provide a committed evangelistic effort and resources for discipleship among this important and valuable population segment."
