"For we are God's fellow workers. You are God's field, God's building." (1 Corinthians 3:9)

An opportunity to partner in the work of the gospel has come across our path, and we are happy to inform you that things have so worked that we can support Emmanuel Baptist Church West as they begin their ministry. Starting on March 30th, they will be holding services in our building from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM. As they plant a Spanish-speaking church, we are reminded of the beautiful reality that God has called us to be co-laborers in His kingdom. The work of the local church is not a solitary endeavor, but rather a shared mission, one in which we labor together for the sake of the gospel, building up the body of Christ.

Christ established the local church as the primary means through which His people grow in faith, worship together, and proclaim the good news of salvation. The church is not merely a building but a gathered community of believers, united in Christ and empowered by the Holy Spirit.

In Ephesians 4:16, Paul writes, "From Him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work." Each local church is a unique expression of Christ’s body, fulfilling the Great Commission in its own context. While we may worship in different languages and come from different cultural backgrounds, our unity is found in our shared faith in Christ and our commitment to His mission.

Baptists have long emphasized the importance of cooperation in advancing the gospel. Though each church is autonomous, we work together in love and unity, supporting one another in church planting, missions, and outreach. The Apostle Paul frequently encouraged churches to care for one another, whether through financial support, prayer, or direct partnership (Philippians 1:3–5, 2 Corinthians 8:1–5).

Emmanuel Baptist Church West, a Spanish-speaking Southern Baptist congregation, is answering the call to bring the gospel to the Hispanic community in our region. Their five ministries—Predicación (Preaching), Evangelización (Evangelism), Servicio (Service), Comunión (Fellowship), and Adoración (Worship), align with the very mission we hold dear. By opening our doors to them, we are not merely providing space, we are participating in the spread of the gospel, demonstrating hospitality, and bearing witness to the unity of Christ’s body.

1. Pray for This Partnership – Paul exhorts us in Colossians 4:2, "Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful." Let us commit to praying for Emmanuel Baptist Church West as they begin their ministry, asking God to bless their preaching, discipleship, and outreach.
2. Practice Gospel Hospitality – Romans 15:7 reminds us, "Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God." May we warmly receive our brothers and sisters, encouraging them in their faith and joyfully sharing in their mission.
3. Celebrate Our Unity in Christ – In Revelation 7:9, John sees a great multitude from every nation, tribe, and language standing before the throne, worshiping the Lamb. Our partnership with Emmanuel Baptist Church West is a foretaste of that glorious reality. We may worship in different languages, but we proclaim the same gospel and serve the same Lord.

The gospel advances as the people of God work together in faith, love, and service. As we support Emmanuel Baptist Church West, let us remember that we are joining in the very work Christ has commissioned, to make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19–20). May this partnership remind us that the local church is both a gift and a mission, given by God for His glory and the good of the world.