WASHINGTON, D.C. — Iglesia Bíblica Sublime Gracia, a Hispanic church in Columbia Heights, Washington, DC, opened their doors on March 9 to host a “Charla de Inmigracion” (Immigration talk). Despite a rainy day, nearly 30 people made arrangements to attend. Alejandro Molero, pastor of Iglesia Biblica Sublime Gracia greeted guests and shared a devotional before introducing Gunter Sanabria, the president of Sanabria & Abogados law firm.

The church partnered with the firm, which serves clients in the Delmarva area. Sanabria, who is from Peru, told attendees about the options the United States government has for obtaining a visa. He also took the time to share the aspects of his own personal experience of being in the United States for over three decades. He told attendees that one of the factors that inspired him to start his own law practice was the lack of resources to educate the immigrant community on their rights and the laws of the United States. He said there are many unique challenges and circumstances in immigration, and it can be difficult to navigate. “As an immigrant, I realized there is one common place for all immigrants, which is the church,” said Sanabria. “We all look for support and help from the church.” During the event, attendees learned about different options for their specific legal cases. A highlight for visitors was being able to meet one-on-one for a free consultation with Sanabria.

For many, this event gave a glimmer of hope. As Sanabria spoke, there were times of laughter and moments of intense quiet listening to the presentation. One man from Colombia who was in attendance found out about the event via social media. “God is helping us to find the help we need to advance our case,” he said.

Pastor Molero said it was important that the gospel be proclaimed at the event. We are doing this not only so people can know how to be citizens of the United States. We want the people to know how to be citizens of heaven, which is treasuring Christ,” he said.

Iglesia Bíblica Sublime Gracia meets at 9 a.m. on Sundays and has 77 members and a number of visitors each week. There are members from various countries in Central and South America, some of which include Venezuela, El Salvador, Peru, and Bolivia.

“God has made us diverse,” said Associate Pastor Juan Vega, adding that they rejoice in the diversity and opportunity to share the gospel with people from around the world. Speaking further on the Hispanic community Vega says, “We have many good things to share, lots of delicious food from many countries. We are here to also add much good for the glory of God.”

All attendees were invited to the Sunday morning service at Iglesia Biblica Sublime Gracia.

Abby Gresham is a freelance writer and member of Iglesia Biblica Sublime Gracia Church.

Feature photo by Dominic Henry