There is an important and exciting step forward currently happening within our disaster relief ministry. Disaster Relief is now offering regular training in Spanish. But this is more than simply about language. This is about extending the opportunity for more people to serve while making sure we’re truly reaching those who need us most.
I’ve been on many deployments over the years. I’ve seen firsthand both the impact of this ministry and the growing need for Spanish-speaking volunteers to come alongside. Many of the people we encounter during disasters are Spanish-only speakers, and without trained volunteers who can communicate with them, we’re missing a critical piece of ministry in California.
These Spanish language trainings open new doors for more individuals to step into this ministry, enabling Spanish speakers to serve while also extending our ability to minister effectively to Spanish-speaking survivors.
In Disaster Relief, we know one of the greatest needs survivors have is simply to tell their stories. In the aftermath of a disaster, people are processing loss, fear, and uncertainty. They need someone who can listen, comfort them, and walk with them through those first steps of healing. That kind of connection is best made in a person’s heart language. And for this reason, we need more Spanish speakers.
The Spanish language trainings also create new opportunities for churches and volunteers who may not have been able to participate before. Once trained, Spanish-speaking volunteers can deploy and serve those impacted by disasters within their communities, across the state, and beyond. It strengthens not just our response but also the ministry’s reach as a whole.
In Nehemiah 3, the people came together to accomplish a massive task. The Lord wants to use the full body to do the work in times of great need, and disasters are often those moments when people are searching for hope. It takes all of us working together to meet that need.
There have been many deployments where Disaster Relief has been in need of Spanish speakers, because when disasters hit, Spanish-speaking communities are often among those impacted. They are best served when volunteers can connect with them directly. That’s why this matters.
It’s exciting to see the Spanish-speaking community within the SBC step into this space and serve their communities, especially here in California. Seeing the CSBC Spanish community serving the California Spanish-speaking community is something that will make a lasting impact.
Looking ahead, we hope to see more Spanish speakers joining Disaster Relief and sharing in the joy that comes from offering help, hope, and healing to the brokenhearted. As we grow in volunteer numbers, we help share the joy of serving so more will come alongside. That kind of growth strengthens the ministry and expands its impact.
To those who may be considering getting involved, my message is:
“¡Si podemos ayudar!” (Translated: We can help!)
There is a place and a need for you here, and your ability to connect with others will make a difference.
Success in the years ahead means building our Disaster Relief teams to best reflect the communities we are called to serve. The CSBDR family demographics should reflect the demographics of the CSBC family and that of our state. When that happens, we’ll be better equipped to respond with compassion, unity, and effectiveness.
At the end of the day, this is about making sure that when disaster strikes, no one feels alone, and everyone has someone who can hear them, understand them, and help them begin to rebuild.
