Leaders and members from Spanish-speaking churches gathered on Jan. 10, 2026, for the annual Prayer Convocation, focusing on strengthening evangelism through small groups and reaffirming them as a foundation for spiritual growth and community life.
Approximately 900 people attended the gathering, which emphasized prayer, mission and community as key elements of the church’s outreach. The program featured a message from guest speaker Gustavo Squarzon, who encouraged attendees to live in complete dependence on Christ and express their faith through active engagement within the community.
Special musical contributions from Wander Bello helped create an atmosphere of prayerful reflection and unity, guiding participants into moments of worship throughout the program.
According to Wagner Cilio, Washington Conference Hispanic ministries coordinator, the convocation was a meaningful spiritual experience despite the challenges many immigrant families are facing in the current social and political climate.
“Even though attendance was lower than in previous years, participation exceeded expectations,” Cilio said. “The most important outcome was seeing our church family united in prayer and renewed in their trust in God’s guidance.”
Throughout the event, pastors and leaders emphasized that small groups are not merely an organizational strategy, but also a living extension of the local church. In these gatherings, members build relationships, study scripture, pray together and support one another.
Silvia Ramírez, Seattle Spanish Church member, shared that one of the most meaningful reminders from the convocation was that the small groups model can be traced back to the ministry of Jesus.
“The first small group began in the time of Jesus, when people gathered two by two to study God’s word and share it,” Ramírez said. “Even a small group can be spiritually powerful when it is centered on Christ and driven by purpose.”
Azucena and Omedid Taracena from White Center Spanish Church shared how small groups have shaped their spiritual journey. Since childhood, they have seen how gathering in homes creates opportunities to share testimonies and invite friends, family members and coworkers to experience faith in a relational environment.
Filiberto Cruz, Kent Spanish Church first elder, described small groups as “a living extension of the church,” where people pray together, study scripture and care for one another.
Looking ahead, Cilio expressed hope for continued growth in Hispanic small groups across the conference, emphasizing the importance of developing leaders, nurturing spiritual growth and creating safe spaces where people can find encouragement and hope.
By strengthening small groups, Spanish-speaking churches are nurturing faith, deepening community and preparing people to share the hope of Christ.
Members gather in prayer during the convocation, emphasizing prayer as the spiritual centerpiece of the day.
Wander Bello (right) leads worship, inviting participants into a spirit of praise and prayer.
Gustavo Squarzon, guest speaker, challenges attendees to live in dependence on Christ and maintain an evangelistic mindset.
Church representatives hold banners representing the 12 tribes, highlighting the shared commitment to small group ministry.
