The 36 Alaska Conference congregations reflect the region's diversity, encompassing Native, Asian and Scandinavian communities. However, there is only one Hispanic congregation, which worships in Anchorage.
Despite the good intentions of members, Anchorage Spanish Church faced a decline, shrinking to only a few remaining members. This dwindling group persevered even without a pastor leading them for long periods.
Sergio Vasquez, Anchorage Spanish Church pastor and Hillside O'Malley Church youth pastor, accepted the call to serve in Alaska a few years ago. Among his churches was the small Hispanic congregation. His arrival sparked hope for a revival within the congregation.
In May 2024, Peter Simpson was appointed North Pacific Union vice president for Hispanic ministries. One of his first trips was to Alaska. After meeting with Vasquez and Anchorage Spanish Church members, he embraced their desire to revitalize the congregation and work more effectively for God.
As a result, plans for an evangelistic campaign took shape, with Simpson committing to serve as the preacher. At that time, only about 15 members were gathering for worship. Still, a comprehensive plan for prayer and revival, small groups, visitation, training and outreach was established in preparation for a campaign in September 2024. Excitement and fervor filled the fellowship, as it had been more than a decade since their last evangelistic campaign took place there.
The campaign was titled "A New Dawn in Alaska," and during that special week of the evangelist series, the church experienced a revitalization. Approximately 25 permanent visitors attended each night, and by the end of the series, on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2024, 21 people had committed their lives to Christ, with an audience of more than 70 people gathered, overwhelming the available space. Praise be to God!
The following day, Alaska Conference held a constituency meeting where a report highlighted the revival of the Hispanic church. In a groundbreaking moment, several members of the Hispanic church introduced their newly baptized brothers and sisters. This was significant as it marked the first time recently baptized members addressed the constituency delegates, sharing their testimonies of salvation and reaffirming that evangelism is the church's primary mission.
Once again, God taught those in Alaska — often referred to as “the last frontier” — that His power reaches even the most remote areas, bringing new life, mercy and a fresh new start to those who embrace it.
Sergio Vasquez, Anchorage Spanish Church pastor, (left) baptizes David Vargas (right).
Sergio Vasquez, pastor de Iglesia Hispana de Anchorage, (izquierdo) bautiza a David Vargas (derecho).
Credit: Carolina Simpson
Peter Simpson, NPUC vice president for Hispanic ministries, preaches during the series.
Peter Simpson, vicepresidente de ministerios Hispanos de NPUC, predica durante la serie.
Credit: Carolina Simpson
Baptism candidates take vows.
Los candidatos al bautismo toman votos.
Credit: Carolina Simpson
