Abel Lopez, lead pastor of LEAD Church in Dallas and Wycliffe USA board member, sat in a small Ugandan village, captivated by the life-changing impact of God’s Word. Local translators, having sacrificed three weeks of their vacation, had translated just eight verses of Scripture.

When Abel asked one of them what motivated such dedication, the answer the translator gave was profound: “My name will never be forgotten. My grandchildren will know I was part of bringing God’s Word to our village.”

The result was transformation. Those eight verses brought light into spiritual darkness, and lives began to change. As the translators shared those verses with the village, people came to Christ, and the message of hope took root in their hearts.

Think about that — just eight verses in a language people could finally understand. For the first time, they experienced God’s Word speaking directly to their hearts. It didn’t take a full Bible or even an entire chapter; those few verses ignited a spark of faith in the lives of many people. That’s the power of Scripture.

This story is a reminder of what’s possible when people encounter God’s Word in their language. Abel shared how he sees a unique opportunity for Latino churches to influence the global mission field.

As he reflected on the rapid growth of Latino churches in the U.S., he envisioned how this passionate and faith-filled community can rise to meet the challenge of bringing Scripture to people who have never had access to it.

Latino Church Growth: A Catalyst for Global Missions

Latino communities are flourishing, and their impact on the U.S. church is profound. This growth isn’t just about numbers or statistics — it’s a Kingdom opportunity.

“As we travel throughout the nation, we’re beginning to see how the church is really looking for discipleship,” Abel explained. “And there’s no better discipleship than God’s Word.”

But there’s a challenge. Many immigrant communities, like Guatemalan families in Houston, speak indigenous dialects rather than Spanish. This linguistic diversity highlights the need for Bible translation, not only abroad but right here in the U.S.

Latino churches are uniquely equipped to bridge this gap. Their cultural connections and passion for the gospel position them as a powerful force in bringing hope and discipleship through Scripture to these communities.

Making Bible Translation Accessible for Every Church

To empower Latino churches in Bible translation, practical and accessible systems are vital. Abel emphasized this need, “We must simplify things. … We must be user-friendly to help parents understand the mission [and] vision of where we’re going and what we need to accomplish it.”

This approach makes the mission tangible for every church, regardless of size. Abel said: “Whether it’s a denominational church, a nondenominational church or just a small independent church that has 30 members, the Bible speaks about being one body and having different functions. Unity is key.”

With user-friendly systems and a shared vision, every congregation can contribute to the transformative work of Bible translation.

The Ripple Effect of Bible Translation

The story from Uganda is a powerful reminder of how even the smallest efforts in Bible translation can lead to profound transformation. Eight verses were all it took to spark a movement of faith in a remote village. Imagine the joy and hope that swept through the community as they heard God’s Word in their own language for the very first time. Those verses didn’t just communicate information; they touched hearts, changed lives and planted seeds of eternal truth.

Now picture what could happen if churches across Latin America and the U.S. embraced this mission. Imagine communities that have never had access to Scripture finally understanding God’s promises in a way that speaks directly to their hearts.

As we dream about what’s possible, we’re reminded of Ephesians 3:20-21 (NIV), which declares, “Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.”

He is already at work, and the ripple effect of even a few verses can grow in a way that causes Scripture to reach the furthest corners of the earth. This is the opportunity before us — to be part of a movement that changes lives for eternity.

Expanding the Vision: Sharing the Gospel Near and Far

The gospel calls us to love our neighbors and share the Good News of Christ with them — whether they live next door to us or thousands of miles away. Reflecting on his trip to Uganda, Abel challenged Latino churches to think beyond their immediate communities. He noted that the opportunity to become engaged in Bible translation is exciting because our calling knows no boundaries.

Sharing the gospel with others isn’t just a local responsibility — it’s a global opportunity. Many people in remote villages have never experienced the life-transforming power of God’s Word. Imagine what it would be like if you could take part in their story!

How You Can Be Part of the Movement

Latino churches are stepping boldly into the work of Bible translation, but the work requires the full body of Christ. Here’s how you can join:

• Pray: Ask God to empower and guide Latino churches as they engage in Bible translation. Pray for wisdom, unity and open doors in the communities they serve.


• Give: Financial support helps ensure that Bible translation efforts can continue without interruption. Your generosity can bring the Word of God to those who’ve never had access to it.


• Advocate: Share this vision with your family, friends and church community. Inspire others to get involved and experience the joy of participating in God’s mission.


• Engage Your Church: Equip your congregation to be part of this life-changing work. We've created resources for all ages in your church — from kids to adults — to help people find their part whether at home or abroad.

A Vision for Transformation

God can use us where we are — in our communities, cities and churches — to make an eternal impact for His Kingdom. Latino churches have a vital role in the global mission of Bible translation.

Through unity, partnership and a commitment to seeing lives transformed, they can help fulfill the vision of Revelation 7:9a: “After this I saw a vast crowd, too great to count, from every nation and tribe and people and language, standing in front of the throne and before the Lamb” (NLT).

Let’s join together in this mission to see lives changed, communities transformed and God’s Word reach the furthest corners of the earth.

Involve Your Church in Global Bible Translation

Be part of bringing hope and transformation to every nation through the power of God’s Word. Your church can make an eternal impact by supporting Bible translation — through prayer, resources and partnership — equipping believers worldwide with Scripture in a language they clearly understand. Together let’s take the next step in fulfilling the Great Commission.

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