In Ohio, a new initiative that expands the concept of growing more churches is gaining momentum. Semillero de Lideres, an Ohio Episcopal Area Greenhouse initiative, was launched to create a pathway to reach new people and launch new faith communities.

Semillero de Lideres, which is Spanish for Seedbed of Leaders, is a six-month initiative designed with a cultural competency element to train leaders to be effective in ministry alongside Hispanic/Latin X communities. 

Currently, close to 10 individuals have committed to Semillero, representingHonduras, Mexico, Puerto Rico, and other nationalities. Pastor Elizabeth Ortiz-Herrera of Iglesia Hispania, St. Mark’s in Columbus, has been instrumental in shaping the vision.

A graduate of Greenhouse, Herrera sees Semillero as an opportunity for leaders to strengthen their relationships with the conference and other pastors, to address issues like immigration, and to share in ministries together. “This is an opportunity for more of us to do the work God has called us to do,” she said.

Herrera shared that the Hispanic/LatinX community can feel isolated, but Semillero brings that community together with others to become one people, passionate about sharing the Gospel and growing new faith communities.  

Brad Aycock, Director of Fresh Starts and New Beginnings for the Ohio Episcopal Area, is excited about what this new initiative can bring: “Semillero amplifies Bishop Jung’s vision to launch 100 new faith communities.”

If you feel called to join Semillero de Lideres, please contact Terri McClain at the Office of Fresh Starts and New Beginnings at tmcclain@wocumc.org.