Catalyst Track: When Faith Catches Fire // Day Two

This track comes from the new book, When Faith Catches Fire, by Samuel Rodriguez and Dr. Robert Crosby.

Latino Christians are catching the fire. In many ways they are changing their world today. In fact, Latino Evangelicals, “up from 14 percent in 2006 to 18 percent in 2013,” are the “fastest-growing religious group in the country.”1

There is just something about their faith in God and the ways so many of them experience it, practice it, embrace it, and live it that I find absolutely compelling. There is a passion burning in the souls of so many Latino Christians today, blazing trails of local, regional, national, and global change.

The change isn’t coming. It’s here.

But far too many churches, pastors, Christians, leaders, government officials, and others have not yet ac­knowledged what is growing up all around them.

This 3-day track is your opportunity to 1) learn about the spiritual trends happening in the Latino church and, 2) evaluate how your church or organization can be a part of them, and 3) take action!

Whether you’re a leader in a Latino organization or church, or your faith community finds itself mostly removed from the Latino church, now is the time to recognize how this part of the Church can uniquely serve and lead the whole body of Christ!

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Day 2 – Futures & Cultures

 

Wise leaders today are taking steps to engage with Hispanic Millennials and helping them become leaders. One of the best ways to do so is to seek to under­stand and respond to the questions they are asking. Research shows the most common questions.

 

Question 1: Are Your Hopes for My Future as Bright as Mine?

 

One study, conducted by the National Council of La Raza (NCLR), found that Latino Millennials “have high career ambitions and value professional growth.” So they are deeply desirous of “career opportunities that will allow them to gain experience and grow professionally.” In fact, in one poll, “nearly two in three (65%) expressed concern about a lack of career advancement op­portunities in the U.S.”

For the church, we have a gift unlike any other to offer to Next-Gen Lati­nos. That is hope—esperanza. Of all the things young Latinos need from their leaders, it is a set of eyes that view them not just as they are but as they can be and will be by the grace of God. We need to see the “oaks of righteousness” inside the tiny sprigs of youth and take time to teach, preach, challenge, equip, and speak to their potential (Isaiah 61:3).

 

Question 2: Does Your Culture Have Room for Mine?

 

Cultural considerations are vital for church leaders and employers today. Not only should skills be considered; it is also important that culture be appreci­ated. Some organizations today have taken on the practice of “compensating employees for their bilingualism,” in particular if it adds to the effectiveness and production of the organization. “Recognizing and rewarding the added value that Hispanics bring to the workplace” or other organizations will help in “attracting and retaining” them as well.

 

CHALLENGE:

Question 1: Whether they are your employees or kids in your youth group, how can you use your leadership to help speak esperanza (hope) into the lives of Latinos you interact with as the navigate futures and careers?

Question 2: In your sphere of influence this week, how will you seek out opportunities to utilize the unique value Hispanics bring to your ministerial/organizational context?