OCALA— Neither distance nor thunderstorms kept more than 400 Hispanic Florida Baptists from gathering at College Road Church Español in Ocala on Saturday, Aug. 1, for the Unidos en Cristo Testificamos conference.

The one-day conference, organized by the Confraternidad Bautista Hispana celebrated the unity of Hispanic Baptists and their shared commitment to proclaiming Christ. Throughout the day, attendees worshiped, prayed and heard seven pastors explain what biblical unity looks like in the life of the church.

“I call on you to make unity more than a theme, but a daily act,” said Reinier Coro, pastor of Iglesia Bautista Resurrección in Kissimmee. “A people who live in unity are humble, meek, patient, loving and diligent in preserving unity and peace.”

Herminio Pagán, pastor of Iglesia Vino Nuevo, preached from Romans 8:34, encouraging those gathered to remain steadfast in prayer, knowing Christ continually intercedes for believers before God.

Darwin Gonzalez, pastor of Miami City Church, reminded attendees that “our identity is found in Christ.” Juan Puente, pastor of Lakes Church Español, pointed to the conference itself as evidence of the unity among Hispanic Florida Baptists.

“We cannot let our differences separate us,” Puente said. “Not our culture, our politics or our nationalities. The world is divided; the church cannot be divided too.”

Yoslier Brache, pastor of Iglesia Bautista Peniel, emphasized the importance of discipleship.

“Our mission is not over when someone professes Christ as Savior or is baptized,” Brache said. “We keep going until they have reached spiritual maturity.”

Host pastor Rogney Paz challenged pastors and ministry leaders to remain united in advancing the mission. Preaching from Paul’s letter to the Philippians, Paz highlighted the church’s commitment to the gospel.

“The Philippians embraced missions immediately,” he said. “They did not wait for a better moment because the gospel had touched their hearts, their minds and their budget.”

Hector Torres, pastor of Elevate Church Español, concluded the preaching sessions by reminding attendees that cooperation strengthens the church’s witness.

“When we work as separate churches, communities see a local church,” Torres said. “When we work together, the world sees Christ.”

 During the conference, leaders introduced the new Hispanic Ministry team: Alberto Ocaña, regional consultant for the Southeast and Southwest regions; David Perez, regional consultant for the Central and North regions; Hector Torres, ministry coordinator; and Juan Puente and Reinier Coro, missions consultants.

Stephen Rummage, executive director-treasurer of the Florida Baptist Convention, greeted attendees by video, saying, “Unity in the midst of diversity has always been God’s design.”

The gathering concluded with a surprise recognition honoring Emanuel Roque for his years of service as Hispanic Ministry catalyst. Pastors and friends thanked him for his encouragement, support and faithful leadership, expressing appreciation for his servant’s heart and Christlike character.

Roque transitioned in April from his role as Hispanic Ministry catalyst to serve as the Florida Baptist Convention’s Southeast regional catalyst.