Hispanic Churches Gather at BCM/D “United” Service 2026

By Ester Nieto

Laurel, MD — Hispanic churches throughout Maryland and Delaware met on April 12 at First Baptist Church of Laurel/ Primera Iglesia Bautista (PIB) Laurel for the Baptist Convention of Maryland/Delaware (BCM/D) Hispanic United Service 2026. From 3 to 5 p.m., the service was a testimony of unity, faith and the presence of God among His people.

The United worship service featured hymns and modern praise. (Photo by Ester Nieto)

A total of 25 pastors representing various Hispanic churches, along with their leadership teams and congregation members (altogether totaling over 200), were warmly greeted by FBC’s welcoming committee. Their hospitality set the tone for the evening, marked by genuine, joyful, Christ-centered love.

The service opened with a time of worship. Voices rose together in one language of faith, blending traditional Baptist hymns with worship songs that resonated across cultures. The atmosphere was marked by reverence, joy and a deep awareness of God’s presence.

As the sanctuary filled, it became clear the gathering was a celebration of what God is doing in the Hispanic community across Maryland and Delaware. Both guests and the hosting church were encouraged as they saw the growth of Hispanic congregations and the commitment of their leaders.

During the service, BCM/D Hispanic Church Planting Consultant Alejandro Molero shared a video featuring messages from BCM/D Executive Director Tom Stolle and Associate Executive Director/Director of Evangelism Mark Dooley. Their messages emphasized that language and culture should not be barriers within the body of Christ, but opportunities for greater reach, deeper connection and stronger unity.

Revelation 7:9 framed this vision: “…a great multitude that no one could number, from every nation, from all tribes and peoples and languages, standing before the throne and before the Lamb,…” This truth resonated with those present, affirming that diversity within the church reflects the heart of heaven.

FBC Laurel volunteers cared for children during the service. (Photo by Ester Nieto)

Throughout the evening, several pastors from different congregations participated in announcements, Scripture readings and moments of encouragement. This shared leadership reflected the spirit of collaboration that marked the gathering.

The sermon was delivered by Pastor Roberto Mancía of Community of Grace Church in Glen Burnie. Preaching from 2 Timothy 4, Mancía encouraged pastors and leaders not to grow weary in the face of difficulties, but to remember the privilege they carry each day: to proclaim the name of Jesus. He called them to trust fully in the power of God’s Word, remain constant in prayer and lead by example.

His words resonated with those present, reminding them that ministry is not merely a responsibility but a calling sustained by grace. Many left encouraged to pursue God with greater sincerity and to serve their communities with renewed commitment.

The service was not only spiritually enriching but also thoughtfully organized. While pastors and leaders participated in the gathering, their children were cared for by the hosting church’s children’s ministry, allowing families to fully engage.

As the evening came to a close, the sense of unity carried into a time of fellowship. Conversations, laughter, pictures and long goodbyes reflected the relational warmth of the Hispanic community.

Pastor Roberto Mancía of Community of Grace Church in Glen Burnie shared the message. (Photo by Ester Nieto)

The Hispanic United Service 2026 concluded with a strengthened sense of unity and a shared commitment to the mission ahead. Attendees left encouraged, reminded that together, as one body in Christ, they are part of God’s ongoing work.

For information about how the BCM/D can equip and resource your church, visit our website, bcmd.org. For information about Hispanic ministry, email Alejondro Molero, [email protected].

Ester Nieto is a freelance writer and serves as a student and outreach minister at FBC en Español, in partnership with Friendship Baptist Church, Sykesville.