Hispanic Heritage Month, observed from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15, invites us to reflect on the profound cultural legacy and the significant contributions of Hispanic Americans to our nation.
For Hispanic Baptists in Texas, this period holds special spiritual significance as we honor the devoted individuals who have shaped our churches, families and communities through their steadfast commitment to the gospel.
Reflecting on this month reminds me of the rich legacy that has influenced my own life—a legacy deeply rooted in both my family history and the remarkable Baptist pastors whose impact continues to mold my character.
Family
My personal journey begins with the faith of my great-grandfather, Juan Ramos Castillo, who heeded God’s call to ministry in 1888. By 1904, he was appointed by the Board of Internal Missions in New York to serve as the pastor of First Baptist Church of Monterrey, Nuevo León.
This pivotal moment not only marked a significant step for our family, but also played a crucial role in the expansion of the gospel in northern Mexico. His leadership laid a foundation for future generations of Baptist leaders, including my great-uncle, Librado Ramos Lozano, who transcended borders to serve as vice president of the Baptist World Alliance for five years.
The Ramos name came to symbolize faith, dedication and a resolute commitment to fulfilling the Great Commission.
The most influential figure in my spiritual life has been my father, Homero Job Ramos. With 55 years of full-time ministry experience in both Mexico and Texas, my father’s legacy is characterized by profound spiritual teaching and pastoral care.
From Houston to Elsa, Brownsville to McAllen, he poured his heart into pastoring congregations, teaching them to love their neighbors as themselves.
His influence extended beyond the local church through his role as president of the Asociación Bautista Latino Americana, bridging Hispanic churches with other ethnic groups in fulfilling the Great Commission.
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His life served as a testament to Jesus’s call to love and serve others, and through his example, I have learned to embody the Great Commission and the Great Commandment with humility and grace.
Models
Reflecting on my family’s heritage, I also am profoundly grateful for the Baptist pastors who have played a pivotal role in shaping my character and ministry.
Leaders like Rudy Sanchez, Carlos Paredes, Isaac Torres, Omar Pachecano, Eliseo Aldape, Albert Reyes, Adlin Cotto, Daniel Sanchez and Rudy Hernandez have left an indelible mark on my life.
They exemplify the heart of Hispanic Baptist ministry in Texas—an unwavering commitment to the gospel, a deep love for their congregations, and a passion for sharing the love of Jesus with everyone they encounter.
Rudy Sanchez, with his dedication to discipleship, taught me the importance of mentoring others in the faith. His relational ministry approach, investing in those around him, demonstrated how to equip the next generation of leaders.
Carlos Paredes and Isaac Torres, with their fervent passion for evangelism, showed me how to reach the lost with urgency and compassion.
Pastors like Omar Pachecano and Eliseo Aldape taught me the value of perseverance in ministry, standing firm in faith during times of trial and uncertainty.
Albert Reyes and Adlin Cotto, faithful servants of the Lord, embodied humility and joy in serving others, while Daniel Sanchez’s theological depth reminded me of the importance of grounding our ministry in sound doctrine.
Rudy Hernandez’s unwavering dedication to the Hispanic Baptist community has been a source of inspiration.
Each of these leaders has, in their own way, shown me what it means to be a faithful servant of God.
Legacy
As Hispanic Baptists in Texas, we are part of a larger narrative—a story of faith, perseverance and commitment to the Great Commission. The legacy of Hispanic Baptists is one of sacrifice and resilience, but most importantly, it is a legacy of love for Christ and for our neighbors.
My family’s story, beginning with my great-grandfather and continuing through the generations, exemplifies how God has worked through Hispanic Baptists to advance his kingdom.
Hispanic Heritage Month is not only a time to celebrate our cultural identity, but also a moment to give thanks to God for his faithfulness across generations.
Psalm 90:1 reminds us: “Lord, you have been our refuge from generation to generation.” This verse captures the essence of Hispanic Baptist ministry in Texas—God has been our refuge, strength and guide as we have sought to follow him in faithfulness and obedience.
At the heart of Hispanic Heritage Month is a celebration of God’s goodness and mercy. It’s not just about one ethnicity, but it’s about the heart of individuals willing to invest in others’ lives, sharing the love of Jesus and making a difference in the world for Christ.
Today, we honor the Hispanic men and women who have impacted profoundly Texas Baptist ministry, and we give God the glory for his ongoing work in our midst.
As we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, let us reflect, not only on the legacy left for us, but also look forward with anticipation to what God will continue to do through the faithful men and women in our communities.
To God be the glory for his work among Hispanic Baptists in Texas, both now and in the generations to come.
Sergio A. Ramos is director of the GC2 Initiative of Texas Baptists.
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