DALLAS (BP) — Hispanic Baptists from across the country gathered at First Baptist Church in Dallas on June 8 for the 2025 Hispanic Celebration hosted by the Red Bautista Hispana Nacional (National Hispanic Baptist Network). The evening, which welcomed about 500 Hispanics, was filled with worship, encouragement and a renewed commitment to gospel work.

David Inestroza, director of communications for the network, officially launched its mission, “Unidos Para Su Gloria: Para Que Todos Sepan” (“United for His Glory: So That Everyone Knows”), calling for a $450,000 fundraising initiative over the next two years to support gospel outreach. The “Para Que Todos Sepan” initiative aims to connect churches, share resources and celebrate what God is doing among Hispanics.

Inestroza introduced a new website and recognized leaders in Hispanic ministry, including Pastor Amaury Santos, vice president candidate for the Red’s executive committee, and Pastor Vernig Suarez, candidate for president. Both were running unopposed June 9.

“We ask you to pray, give and participate, not just attend,” said Richard Aguilar, director-treasurer of the network’s board.

The First Baptist Dallas Español worship team led attendees in praise, setting the tone for a night of unity and inspiration. A video greeting from Robert Jeffress, pastor of First Baptist Dallas, highlighted the church’s ongoing support for Hispanic ministry, which launched in 2023.

Southern Baptist Convention (SBC) President Clint Pressley greeted the crowd, thanking them on behalf of the convention. “Our theme this year is ‘Holding Fast,’” Pressley said. “I pray God blesses your efforts to reach the lost with the gospel.”

Charles Grant, associate vice president for convention partnerships with the SBC Executive Committee, also offered words of encouragement and thanks.

“Your giving helps support over 3,500 international missionaries and strengthens Baptist work across the country,” Grant said. He also recognized the efforts of Bruno Molina and others who have built bridges between ethnic groups to advance gospel work. Grant encouraged continued collaboration and representation of Hispanics in SBC leadership.

Jonathan Santiago of Send Relief reminded attendees that gospel ministry includes meeting physical needs.

“Our mission is to feed the hungry, care for the immigrant and support widows and orphans, all in partnership with the local church,” Santiago said.

The event also highlighted women’s ministry and education. Clara Molina announced workshops and emphasized the ministry’s partnership with Mission:Dignity, a ministry of GuideStone Financial Resources supporting retired Southern Baptist ministers. Gus Reyes of Dallas Baptist University (DBU) recognized a generous $10,000 donation, providing 10 Hispanic students with $1,000 scholarships from Christian Book.

Bruno Molina honored Rudy Gonzalez of DBU with a standing ovation for his leadership and service.

SBC Executive Committee President Jeff Iorg spoke on the importance of Hispanic representation. “Many of you are here because missionaries reached your families,” Iorg said. “Partnership means doing ministry together and sharing leadership.”

Iorg encouraged Hispanic Baptists to pursue roles of leadership and influence across the SBC.

Bruno Molina closed with a message from Hebrews 10, urging attendees to “hold fast” to their faith and mission.

“God calls us to collaboration, not competition,” Molina said. “Being Hispanic and Christian in this time is no accident. It’s a calling.”

The evening concluded with a prayer from Enmanuel Roque, leader of state representatives, asking God to bring unity, protection and revival to churches and communities across the country.

(EDITOR’S NOTE — Keila Diaz is a digital communications assistant with the Florida Baptist Convention.)