WE ARE THE CHURCH OF GOD: CELEBRATING HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH

Every year, from September 15 to October 15, communities across the United States come together to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month. This special time invites us to pause and reflect on the rich histories, vibrant cultures, and profound contributions of Hispanic and Latino peoples to the social, cultural, and spiritual fabric of our nation.

For the Church of God, this month goes beyond cultural recognition. It becomes a sacred opportunity to glorify the Lord for how He has gathered people from every tribe, tongue, and nation into one redeemed family. This unity is beautifully captured in Scripture: “For there is one body and one Spirit, just as you have been called to one glorious hope for the future” (Ephesians 4:4, NLT).  When we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, we proclaim that the Kingdom of God is diverse and expansive, reflecting the fullness of His creation. It reminds us that our differences are not barriers but gifts that enrich the Body of Christ.

Hispanic Heritage Month has its roots in 1968, when President Lyndon B. Johnson signed legislation establishing it as Hispanic Heritage Week. In 1988, under President Ronald Reagan, the observance was expanded to a full month to better encompass the independence days of several Latin American countries, including Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua (September 15), Mexico (September 16), and Chile (September 18).  It also includes Día de la Raza (Day of the Race) on October 12, a day that reflects on the blending of indigenous, African, and European cultures that form the complex heritage of Latin America. Thus, this deep-rooted timeline reminds us of the multicolored Hispanic community in the United States, which is composed of many nations and stories that showcase God’s creativity and the Kingdom’s unity.

For us in the Church of God, this celebration holds deep meaning because we are the Church of God—a global family. Since our founding in 1886, the Church of God has grown into a worldwide movement of over 9.6 million members in 196 countries and 18 million adherents. Hispanic believers have been central to this growth, particularly in North America, where thousands of Spanish-speaking congregations thrive in cities and towns across the United States. Hispanic pastors and leaders have not only planted churches but have also revitalized struggling congregations and brought hope to marginalized communities through passionate preaching, fervent prayer, and Spirit-filled evangelism. These communities remind us of the Book of Acts, where the gospel spread through diverse cities and cultures. The Church of God today reflects that same Spirit-led movement, where Pentecostal fire transcends borders, and every culture becomes a vessel of the gospel.

The Vital Role of Hispanic Women in Ministry

Among these vibrant communities, Hispanic women pastors or as we say in Spanish “pastoras” have played a vital role. They are often the spiritual backbone of their congregations, carrying a prophetic voice and a pastoral heart. These women preach, teach, mentor, and lead with courage and grace. They are bridge-builders between generations and cultures, nurturing young leaders while advocating for justice and compassion in their neighborhoods.

Historically, many Hispanic women leaders have faced cultural and systemic challenges as they pursued their calling. Yet, like Deborah, Priscilla, Lydia, and other women in Scripture, they have persevered, demonstrating that God’s call knows no boundaries. Their stories are a testament to resilience and faithfulness. Because of their service, we are the Church of God, strengthened and equipped to face the challenges of our time. Their ministries echo the prophetic words of Joel 2:28: “…I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy. Your old men will dream dreams and your young men will see visions” (NLT).

Through their faithfulness, the Church of God is stronger and more equipped to navigate the challenges of this generation. They are not only leading churches but also reshaping the future of our movement by inspiring the next wave of women leaders.

Why This Month Matters

Hispanic Heritage Month is not only a time to reflect on the past—it is also a call to shape the future. It challenges the Church to embrace diversity not as a trend but as a Kingdom mandate. When we honor Hispanic believers, we declare that every culture reflects the image of God. The Kingdom of God thrives when every voice is heard, and every gift is celebrated. As we unite across languages, generations, and cultures, we become a living example of Jesus’ prayer in John 17:21: “I pray that they will all be one, just as you and I are one—as you are in me, Father, and I am in you. And may they be in us so that the world will believe you sent me” (NLT).

In a world marked by division and conflict, the Church’s unity becomes a powerful witness to the reconciling love of Christ. May we work together to equip and empower men and women in ministry so that the vision of Revelation 7:9 may come to life: “After this I saw a vast crowd, too great to count, from every nation and tribe and people and language, standing in front of the throne and before the Lamb. They were clothed in white robes and held palm branches in their hands” (NLT).

We are the Church of God

As we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, let us remember that we are not just celebrating culture—we are celebrating the movement of God among His people. We are the Church of God: One family, many cultures, united for the glory of Christ. Let this month inspire us to continue building bridges, empowering leaders, and fulfilling the Great Commission together.

About the Author: Sandy Artreche

Sandy Artreche is a devoted wife to Bishop Victor M. Artreche, proud mother of three, and joyful grandmother of seven. She serves as the Women’s Ministries Director for the North Central Hispanic Region of the Church of God, passionately equipping and empowering women for leadership and ministry. Originally from Puerto Rico, Sandy brings a unique blend of legal expertise and pastoral vision. Her life reflects faith in action, guided by grace and a commitment to helping others flourish in their calling.