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Iglesia Menonita Hispana (IMH), the Hispanic Mennonite Church of MC USA, will hold a virtual Biennial Assembly on August 30, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. (Eastern Time).
By Adriana Celis. Republished from MenoTicias.
Photo by Abraham Ulises Arenas.
In 2025, the Hispanic communities that make up the Mennonite Church in the United States are facing a deeply challenging reality due to the tightening of immigration policies under the current administration, which have created an environment of fear and vulnerability that directly affects congregations. This tense climate has not only led to a decline in church attendance but has also had a devastating emotional, spiritual and economic impact, especially on families with children.
Churches face an ethical and pastoral dilemma: how can they continue to be spaces of welcome and refuge without exposing their people? Some congregations have migrated their services to a virtual format, sacrificing the human warmth they so value, in order to protect their members. However, they have learned that necessity stimulates creativity: new forms of care, solidarity and accompaniment are emerging. The crisis has awakened in them a stronger collaborative spirit, crossing denominational and cultural boundaries and reinforcing their conviction that caring for immigrants is a central calling of the Gospel.
MenoTicias had the opportunity to speak with Pastor Sergio Nava, part of the pastoral team at Resplandece Mennonite Church in Florida. Below, he shares some of the challenges they are currently facing.
The 2025 IMH biennial assembly: Discerning with wisdom and acting with love
Precisely in this context, the 2025 IMH biennial assembly takes on special significance. This event, which brings together families of faith every two years, is an opportunity to share, learn, make key decisions and renew their commitment to God’s mission.
Today, more than ever, faith communities need a space. However, after deep pastoral discernment, and in light of the current risks — raids, riots, surveillance — the Executive Board decided on June 13 to postpone the in-person gathering scheduled for Aug. 28-31 in Dallas, Texas. Instead, it will hold a virtual Biennial Assembly on August 30, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. (Eastern Time), with a one-hour recess.
Far from being discouraged, members understand that virtuality does not limit the action of the Spirit. They intend for this Assembly to be a profound space for prayer, formation and renewal of Hispanic leadership. They are not victims of the system; they are daughters and sons of the King, called to sow the Kingdom of God with creativity, courage and faith, regardless of the format.
What do you want to learn… and what do you need to unlearn?
Nava tells us that this time is also an opportunity to question our dependencies, rethink strategies and trust more radically in the God who sustains us. You need to unlearn the idea that your success depends exclusively on others. It’s time to cultivate a spirituality that renews your hope and inspires you to bear the burdens of others, as Galatians 6:2 teaches.
They must also unlearn discouragement. Although they are facing complex theological and social challenges, they cannot give in to resignation. It is necessary to return to the Word, to the voice of God that remains a sure guide in uncertain times.
Why participate? Because it’s our home, our voice, our mission.
Nava says the invitation to every person, congregation and leader of the Hispanic Mennonite Church to register (stay tuned for new information and a link to join) and be an active part of the 2025 Biennial Assembly is not only to provide information, but also to influence, strengthen networks, pray together and clearly discern the next steps.
On a personal level, says Nava, the Assembly renews spiritual courage. On a congregational level, it strengthens our bonds and mission. On a denominational level, it ensures that the prophetic voice of our Latino communities is heard and a more diverse, compassionate Church is built, faithful to the message of Jesus.
This is a time to remember, lift our gaze and move forward, trusting that the God of justice and mercy continues to walk with us.