The Hispanic Adventist community in the Netherlands experienced an unforgettable weekend of unity, worship, and spiritual renewal. It all began with a mini week of prayer from Wednesday to Friday, organized in two cities: Eindhoven, led by the church plant Familia de Dios, and the Hispanic group in The Hague. Both gatherings prepared the hearts of the participants for what would become a historic day.
On Saturday, September 20, more than 300 people came together to celebrate Hispanic Brotherhood Day, an event that united three growing Hispanic communities:
- Pilares de la Fe (Rotterdam)
- Familia de Dios (Eindhoven), under the leadership of Pastor Anderson Bolanos Londono
- Hispanic Church of Amsterdam, pastored by Pastor Josué Gomez
The host was the Hispanic group of The Hague, led by Pastor Surrandy Selassa.
To facilitate participation, three buses were rented by the groups from Rotterdam and Eindhoven, showing the commitment and enthusiasm of the members to be present. The event featured the special presence of Pastors Julio Chazarreta and Guillermo Arévalo, who shared inspiring messages under the theme “Revive Me! Together and United.” Musical worship was led by the praise team E-Oasis, filling the atmosphere with joy and awakening the enthusiasm of all present. In addition, Sister Lourdes Chazarreta inspired us with her special songs each evening, and on Sabbath she sang especially for the children.
One of the most moving moments was the celebration of two baptisms: Francisco Nicasio and Paul, who publicly sealed their commitment to Christ Jesus, our risen and soon-coming Savior. It was also touching to see Dutch-speaking visitors actively participating in worship. Simultaneous translation was provided, and the food was sufficient for everyone, strengthening the spirit of hospitality and community.
A moment that deeply marked the attendees was hearing the president of the Netherlands Union, Pastor Rob de Raad, address the Hispanic community in Spanish, a gesture received with gratitude and admiration by all present. During the event, a report was presented on the progress of the Hispanic work in the Netherlands, recognizing the leaders and groups who have been driving this growth.
The day concluded with family plenary sessions led by the local pastors and their wives:
- Pastor Josué and Karla
- Pastor Surrandy and Ivon
- Pastor Anderson and Adriana
Each presentation offered practical topics to strengthen family life, and they were received with positive feedback and the desire to continue exploring these themes in future gatherings.
Voices of Brotherhood ‘When will this happen again?’, ‘What other activities are planned during the year for the Hispanic community?’, ‘Events like these inspire me to be part of such a community.’
This event not only celebrated cultural diversity but also strengthened the spiritual identity of a community that continues to grow, serve, and proclaim the gospel in unity.
Thank you to everyone who made this day possible!