Engaging the Growing Hispanic Community Through Cultural Intelligence (feat. Alex Diaz)

Get early access to all of the 2025 RENEW Gathering Breakout Tracks: https://reallifetheologypodcast.supercast.com/  Visit RENEW.org for great resources on Disciple Making and Theology.  Today’s episode will help us understand the profound impact of cultural intelligence on the growth and adaptation of the Latino Christian community within diverse and evolving urban centers in the United States. The provided script titled "Latino Christian Movement" features a discussion and workshop led by Alex Diaz, the campus pastor at Trader Point Christian Church’s Midtown campus. The episode focuses on cultural intelligence and the growth and adaptation of the Latino Christian community in the United States. Alex begins by introducing himself, sharing his background of immigrating from Venezuela to the U.S. and detailing his ministry journey across several states. He highlights significant demographic changes in cities like Indianapolis, depicting the rise in Latino populations and the proliferation of Hispanic restaurants even in traditionally white supremacist areas. The core of the workshop hinges on the concept of cultural intelligence, which is described as the ability to function effectively in culturally diverse settings. Alex explains the rapid demographic shifts occurring in the U.S., showcased by census data, and how these shifts indicate a future where urban centers will predominantly consist of minority communities, particularly Hispanic and multiracial groups. He emphasizes the importance of adapting church practices to reflect current and anticipated demographic realities, noting common misconceptions and anxieties about cultural change. Alex is joined by Pastor Miguel Lara of White River Christian Church, who shares his journey from Venezuela to the U.S., focusing on his experiences in leading a Hispanic ministry within a predominantly Anglo church. Miguel underscores the value of mutual respect, shared meals, and activities in fostering cross-cultural friendships and unity. He highlights various outreach programs, including sports ministries, marriage seminars, and mentoring initiatives, which have successfully integrated Hispanic members into the church community. Pastor Miguel also details practical steps his church has taken to serve and grow their Hispanic congregation, such as bilingual online presence, ESL programs, and culturally relevant outreach like the music program “Elma,” inspired by a similar initiative in Venezuela aimed at keeping youth engaged through orchestral music. Throughout the episode, multiple facets of building and sustaining multicultural congregations are discussed, including the importance of friendship, learning from each other, and leveraging existing church structures and processes. In conclusion, Alex and Miguel’s stories highlight the broader strategic and operational measures necessary for churches to adapt to and embrace cultural diversity. They underline the inevitable demographic changes sweeping the U.S. and the need for churches to develop cultural intelligence as part of their mission to effectively minister to increasingly diverse communities.