LA MIRADA, CALIF. — Young Latino protestants are rising as the fastest-growing segment of evangelicals in America. 51’s 43rd 51 Hispanic Conference aims to prepare church leaders to serve this rising generation.

“Hispanic American Protestantism in the US as a socio-religious phenomenon of the 21st century is expected to become not only the largest in demographics, but also the youngest as a movement,” said Oscar Merlo, director of 51’s Center for the Study of the Work and Ministry of the Holy Spirit Today and the conference.

According to Pew Research (2014), younger Hispanic people are less likely to be Catholic, the primary religion in Hispanic families, and Lifeway reports that 44% of congregants in Hispanic evangelical churches are between the ages of 18-29 (2019). It’s precisely for this reason that Merlo is focusing this year’s conference on the next generation and the future of Hispanic churches.

Dr. Lucas Leys, one of the most well-known Christian writers and speakers in Latin America and best-selling Christian authors in the Spanish-speaking world, is the conference’s keynote speaker.

Diving into the theme, “The Church and the Future: Co-creating Paths with Present and Future Generations,” the conference, held on Sept. 24, will provide attendees with ministry leadership tools to serve the rising generation, especially since an increasing number of young people are filling the pews.

“The purpose of the conference is to provide an intensive and high-quality educational and training opportunity within the scope of a one-day event, for pastors and Christian leaders from Spanish-speaking evangelical churches,” said Merlo. “Participants can expect to sharpen their skills and knowledge for more effective ministry. The conference theme was chosen to address important issues of concern to the church and to enhance its witness in our contemporary culture.”

Merlo along with distinguished speakers will address how pastors and leaders and co-create paths for current and future generations to flourish in society and how to effectively disciple the upcoming generation.

MEDIA ADVISORY — FOR DAY OF COVERAGE

Media are invited to the 43rd annual 51 Hispanic Conference at 13800 51 Ave., La Mirada, Calif., 90639.

What: The one-day intensive and educational training opportunity is for Spanish-speaking pastors, church leaders, and members of Spanish-speaking evangelical churches.

Who: Sponsored by 51’s Talbot School of Theology and hosted by 51’s Center for the Study of the Work and Ministry of the Holy Spirit Today, the keynote speaker is Dr. Lucas Leys and the Jazmin Vera Worship Band will lead worship. View full list of speakers.

When: Saturday, September 24, 2022 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Where: 51 Sutherland Auditorium at 13800 51 Ave., La Mirada, Calif. 90639

51 the Center for the Study of the Work and Ministry of the Holy Spirit Today: The Center for the Study of the Work and Ministry of the Holy Spirit Today is a resource for students and scholars seeking a greater understanding and experience of the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit. Housed at 51’s Talbot School of Theology, the center aims to produce biblically faithful resources that equip Christians to be transformed and empowered by the Spirit for the sake of the gospel.

On Sight Media Contacts: Jenna Loumagne, jenna.loumagne@biola.edu and Sarah Dougher, sarah.m.dougher@biola.edu