“What makes FLAMA special is its commitment to providing ministry training and formation for Spanish-speaking churches in a way that is open, honest, biblical, and transparent.”
-Pastor David Chavista
The Wesleyan Church seeks to encourage, equip, and train all those within its fold whenever possible, with special attention given to the unique needs of the communities it serves. For more than 25 years, FLAMA (Fraternidad Latinoamericana de Adiestramiento Ministerial Alternativo) has embodied this commitment among Spanish-speaking churches.
FLAMA serves as the primary Spanish ministerial formation program of The Wesleyan Church, guiding students toward ordination, licensing, and lay ministry within the denomination. Its reach spans ten districts, with as many as 30 classes offered each year. While FLAMA does not directly host these classes, its influence is substantial. The organization equips leaders by serving Spanish Coordinators and their districts, ensuring they have the resources needed to offer classes that prepare students for ministry at every level within The Wesleyan Church.
Much of FLAMA’s strength is found in its accessibility. Many students come from humble backgrounds, and for some, formal education has been limited. FLAMA opens a pathway into ministry that feels attainable and welcoming. Pastor David Chavista, who supports FLAMA through webinars, translation work, and other roles, notes that all Spanish-speaking churches benefit from this model. Courses remain affordable, and the structure serves older students and those with limited educational experience especially well.
One story stands out to Pastor David. He recalls an elderly woman who had long desired to study for ministry. Even later in life, she pursued the coursework and ultimately received her ordination. Her story reflects FLAMA’s belief that calling and formation remain possible at every stage of life.
Today, FLAMA works with approximately 20 instructors. Ingrid Chavista serves as a key point of connection, coordinating instructors and classes across districts. Resources are shared widely, allowing materials and curriculum to circulate in ways that strengthen the entire network. While most classes take place in the United States, several Central and South American countries also host courses, bringing the annual student count to around 150.
The wider Spanish church network celebrates this work with enthusiasm, especially through FLAMA Fest. Typically held online each year, the festival marked a milestone in April 2025 with a special in-person gathering in Washington State to celebrate FLAMA’s 25th anniversary. The three-day event offered space for worship, culture, storytelling, and gratitude as participants reflected on a quarter-century of ministry and looked ahead with hope.
Even with much to celebrate, ongoing needs remain. Pastor David continues to pray for more workers to join in the work of equipping leaders. He echoes the words of Jesus, observing that the harvest is abundant and the need for laborers continues to grow. FLAMA seeks to expand its offerings through additional resources, including website materials, webinars, and seminars. Pastor David trusts that God will provide the right people at the right time to support and strengthen this ministry.
FLAMA stands as a Spirit-led, Kingdom-minded, and people-focused ministry. Each day, it seeks to equip more leaders to use their gifts for God’s glory and the flourishing of the church. After more than 25 years of faithful service, FLAMA looks ahead with confidence and expectancy. Join Pastor David in praying that many more laborers will step into this work and that the celebration at FLAMA Fest 50 will be filled with even more stories of God’s faithfulness.
For more stories of how The Wesleyan Church is equipping people for healthy, fit, effective service, visit wesleyan.org/ecd.
