1. 1. Incorporate multilingual elements into your service. Introduce Spanish versions of known worship songs or sing select verses or the chorus of a song in Spanish. Have the words available on a screen or printed so the congregation can follow along. Say prayers or read bible verses in English and Spanish. If you have a Spanish-speaking congregation sharing your worship space, consider hosting a joint service to bring everyone together. Perhaps even host a potluck afterwards – food is a great vehicle to bring people together while sharing cuisines.
   2. Invite members of the Hispanic community to speak during the worship service, Sunday school, or adult classes. Hearing their experiences can educate others about their achievements, challenges and the beauty of Hispanic heritage. They can also share how their culture and faith influence each other and how they interpret the Bible through the lens of their heritage.
   3. Provide the space for Hispanic church members to share personal stories and testimonies. As brothers and sisters in Christ, stories are how we connect with each other and find relatability in the way God has moved in our lives. They also offer the opportunity to see the world through someone else’s eyes and bridge the gaps between people.
   4. Pray for our brothers and sisters in Hispanic communities. What unique challenges are they facing that you can support them with? What praises can you rejoice in with them? Pray for Hispanic immigrants seeking freedom, safety, and opportunity to find a better life and faith in Christ. Pray for ministries working within Hispanic communities in the U.S. and ministries in Mexico, Central and South America.
   5. Participate in the World Mission Offering which supports our global servants as they bring the gospel and Christ’s love to our brothers and sisters in over 70 countries, including Mexico. More specifically:

• • • • IM Global Consultant Ray Schellinger works with migrants and refugees in Mexico, meeting their physical and spiritual needs during challenging times.
      • In Mexicali IM Global Servants Mercy González-Barnes and Jae Stockton help Spanish-speaking students earn their degree through online theological training programs.
      • In Tijuana IM Regional Coordinator Sarah McCurdy provides educational support which gives children a future full of potential. IM Global Servants Deliris and Moise Carrión-Joseph provide training and support for migrants and refugees seeking a new beginning in Tijuana, as well as providing a safe haven for survivors of domestic violence at Deborah’s House.

Though Hispanic Heritage Month is officially observed for only a month, International Ministries invites churches to use this opportunity as a springboard to continuously engage the Hispanic community and foster more inclusive practices all year round. We strive to acknowledge each person’s contribution to the tapestry that is the family of God and honor the stories that weave us together in the fabric of humanity.