Each year from September 15 to October 15, the United States observes Hispanic Heritage Month. And every October, Canada observes Latin American Heritage Month. These are times dedicated to recognizing and honoring the histories, cultures, and contributions of Americans whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America. More than just cultural celebrations, these month-long observations provide an opportunity for the church — especially The Wesleyan Church — to reflect on four key areas: 1) the contributions of Hispanic peoples and cultures in our countries, 2) the topic of immigration, 3) the nature of our Lord’s kingdom, and 4) the invaluable lessons we can learn from our Hispanic sisters and brothers in Christ.
Cultural diversity in the United States, Canada and the church
The United States and Canada display cultural tapestries woven from the threads of diverse peoples and ethnic groups. While white Americans and Canadians remain the largest ethnic groups in these countries, Hispanics now make up nearly 20% of the United States and 4% of Canada. Black Americans account for about 15% in the states, followed by Asians, Indigenous Peoples — called First Nations and other ethnic minorities.[1] In Canada, significant minority groups include First Nations, South Asians, Chinese, Blacks and Hispanics.[2] These demographic realities paint a picture of diverse ethnic groups including a considerable number of immigrants. This cultural diversity of our countries presents both opportunities and responsibilities.
Within The Wesleyan Church, we are seeing a similar, though slower, transformation. Historically, our denomination in both countries has been predominantly white. Yet in recent decades, we have witnessed a gradual increase in ethnic and cultural diversity among our members and congregations. This change, I believe, aligns with God’s vision for his church. Christ calls us to reflect his kingdom — a people united not by ethnicity or language, but by faith and love for him and one another.
Reframing immigration
Many people have the impression that most Hispanics are recent immigrants. This is true for Canada. As the number of Latin Americans in the United States has grown, some of them have crossed over into Canada.
For the United States, however, immigration surges at the southern border in recent years have obscured broader historical and cultural realities. Hispanic presence predates the establishment of the United States itself. Spanish explorers and settlers arrived in North America more than a century before the English pilgrims landed at Plymouth Rock in 1620. These Spaniards established missions, settlements and trading posts throughout what are now Florida, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona and California. As a result, a number of Hispanics in the United States have ancestral ties to these regions going back generations — even centuries. Their long-standing presence is reflected in many Spanish names of cities and states: Los Angeles, San Antonio, Santa Fe, San Diego, Colorado, Texas, New Mexico and many more.
Interestingly, the first European languages spoken in Canada and the United States were not English. In Canada, French was the first European language, while in the United States, it was Spanish. Spanish-speaking people played a significant role in shaping American society through their contributions to missionary work and agriculture.
Five lessons from our Hispanic sisters and brothers
The resilience, faith and deep commitment to Christ of my Hispanic friends and colleagues have blessed my life and enriched my ministry. These experiences have profoundly shaped my understanding of God’s kingdom and taught me several important lessons:
- We are all pilgrims. This truth resonates deeply in Hispanic communities, many of whom have experienced treacherous journeys to come to our countries. Their willingness to leave everything behind in search of a better life for themselves and their children is impressive even though we may not always approve of their conduct. As Christians, we are all sojourners, traveling together toward our eternal home.
- Immigrants are people, not problems. Every person is created in the image of God, and each has a unique story. Immigrants are remarkably diverse, even those of various Hispanic backgrounds. Most immigrants are law-abiding and make significant contributions to our countries. So, assuming that all immigrants are “illegal” is a huge misconception. Even then, labels such as “illegals” dehumanize and diminish the worth of individuals made in God’s likeness. For that reason, I intentionally use the phrase undocumented persons as a reminder of their dignity and humanity.
- Evangelical fervor is alive and well. Hispanic believers often approach their faith with boldness and joy. Evangelism is not a program — it is a way of life. Whether at work, in school, or within their neighborhoods, they passionately share the good news of Jesus. I have seen brand new believers talk about him with great enthusiasm, before society has squeezed them “…into its own mould” (J.B. Phillips paraphrase, Romans 12:2).
- Cultural diversity brings fresh perspectives. Hispanics bring new ministry strategies that are shaped by their cultural experiences. They employ multicultural and multilingual approaches that better equip them to reach diverse communities. As a result, various Hispanic churches are transitioning into multicultural congregations, reflecting the diversity of the body of Christ.
- This world is not our final home. Hispanic believers, especially those who have faced hardships or displacement, have realized that our countries are not the paradise they were seeking. Their focus is increasingly on their new identity as citizens of heaven, reminding all of us that we belong to an eternal kingdom. Revelation 7:9 paints a vivid picture of our heavenly destination: “… a great multitude … from every nation, tribe, people and language.”
A shared vision for the church
I am deeply grateful for the privilege of ministering alongside our Hispanic sisters and brothers. Their witness and wisdom have enriched my life and my faith. Their perspectives challenge me to see the gospel in new ways and to live with greater compassion and conviction.
I pray that all Wesleyans — of every ethnicity and cultural background — will have opportunities to learn from one another. May we welcome diversity as a divine gift, not a disruption. And may we labor together for the fulfillment of Christ’s prayer: “Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven” (Matthew 6:10).
Dr. Norman Wilson served with his wife Kim as Wesleyan missionaries in Peru and Puerto Rico. Back in the States, Norman served as an administrator with Global Partners, and also as a professor of Intercultural Studies and Global Ministries at Indiana Wesleyan University. Both Norman and Kim participate in Hispanic ministries at Trinity Church, Indianapolis.
New International Version (NIV) Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV® Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.
J.B. Phillips (J.B. Phillips New Testament, Paraphrase)
[1] https://statisticalatlas.com/United-States/Overview.
[2] https://www.statcan.gc.ca/en/start.
