800 Attend Hispanic Ministries Event

Story by Heidi Shoemaker

Earlier this year, the Hispanic Ministries Department set a goal to baptize at least 100 people in 100 days during the “100 Days of Harvest” evangelistic campaign. As part of this initiative, more than 800 people recently attended the 2018 Ohio Conference Hispanic Camp Meeting at Camp Mohaven in Danville, Ohio. Themed “The Great Reaping Festival!” Peter Simpson, Hispanic Ministries coordinator, says, “Church members from all Hispanic churches within the conference gathered to celebrate ‘the end of a great reaping.’” Those in attendance included Rubén Ramos (pictured
right praying with leaders), vice president of Multilingual Ministries for the Columbia Union, and Oswaldo Magaña, executive secretary for the Ohio Conference.

According to Simpson, Melchor Ferreyra, Personal Ministries director for the Inter-American Division, delivered a powerful message. The internationally known quartet, Heralds of Hope, and Mónica Ospina, a Colombian soloist, also inspired the audience with their musical performances. The Hispanic renowned “Abuelito Jim” (Grandpa Jim) captivated children and adults alike using powerful, biblical teachings. Stereo Adventista, the conference’s Hispanic online radio station, livestreamed the events.

On Sabbath more than 65 small groups comprised of members from among Ohio’s Hispanic churches, participated in an inspirational parade. “Brothers and sisters in Christ marched with their banners, distinctive dresses, balloons and flags, and shared the blessed achievements the Lord had given them throughout the year,” says Simpson.

The youngest preacher at camp meeting, Danny Paniagua (left), a 6-year-old from the First Hispanic church of Columbus, and the oldest, Iluminada Perez, an 80-year-old from the Youngstown Spanish church, encouraged the congregation to continue preaching the gospel until Christ’s return. The camp meeting concluded with five baptisms,
totaling 108 baptisms during the “100 Days of Harvest.” Simpson exclaims, “We are happy, but not satisfied; we still have a lot to do, and God expects much from us. We give praise and bless the name of Jesus Christ for such a beautiful celebration!”