Hispanic evangelism conferences see people commit to sharing gospel

SAN ANTONIO—Evangelist Samuel Otero pressed his hands together in front of his face as he prayed while the crowd finished singing a hymn. He prayed for those who gathered, asking that the gospel would make an impact on them, and—in turn—others.

As he preached at a regional Hispanic Evangelism Conference, Otero urged people to embrace the gospel. For those who already have a relationship with Jesus, he encouraged them to share the good news of Christ.

Evangelist Samuel Otero

"Christ is the only solution," he preached. "Christ is the King. Christ is salvation."

Speakers delivered that same directive in all three Hispanic evangelism conferences, one each in San Antonio, El Paso and Houston. Forty-eight people professed Christ for the first time during the events, and more than 110 rededicated their lives to following Christ.

Frank Palos, Hispanic evangelism director for the Baptist General Convention of Texas, said this kind of response is what he prays for among Hispanics across the state of Texas. He hopes to see a multitude of Hispanics profess faith in Christ as Texas Baptists seek to share the hope of Christ statewide.

"I have a tremendous sense of urgency," he said. "I want to see a spiritual awakening among Hispanics, particularly students. I don't want to read about it, see it, hear about it. I want to be part of it."

The conferences, made possible by gifts to missions through the Texas Baptist Cooperative Program, are designed to be part of that awakening by inspiring believers to share their faith and then give them the opportunity to put that inspiration into practice, Palos said.

The conferences connect with Texas Baptists who prefer speaking Spanish for worship and connecting with others, Palos noted. This rapidly expanding group is key to evangelism efforts in a demographically changing state.

English language rallies for Congreso—a Texas Baptist-sponsored evangelism event for Hispanic youth and singles in April—were held in conjunction with the evangelism conferences to help students spiritually ready themselves for the larger Congreso event that will be held in Waco.

"The first night is to remind people of the importance," Palos said. "The second night is to 'go and get them'—bring your friends, family members and loved ones."

This night, Otero closes his sermon by inviting people to close their eyes and pray to God. For those in the faith, he asks them to pray for boldness to share the gospel. For non-Christians in the crowd, an opportunity is presented to commit to Christ.

Several hands are raised in the air. Other people say "Amen," affirming Otero's prayer.

"We live for the glory of God," Otero closed.