Ministerial life is a blessing for pastors and their families in local churches, yet it also presents unique challenges for the wives of Hispanic pastors and church planters in Virginia. Many live far from their families in their countries of origin, and their ministries unfold in multicultural settings. Although united by a common Spanish language, Hispanic churches include members from various nations, each with its own cultural context, even though all these countries speak Spanish.
These women often have full schedules—managing their homes, marriages, and children; holding secular jobs; and meeting the church’s ongoing needs.
Amid such a demanding rhythm, it becomes essential for them to find moments of encouragement, safety, and vulnerability. They need spaces where they can connect with other ministry wives, trust in God’s grace together, and share one another’s burdens, which is an invaluable gift.
In response, the Hispanic Ministry of the SBC of Virginia, together with Send Network Virginia, has sought not only to equip these sisters through training and resources but also to strengthen their spiritual lives. In 2025, cohort groups began forming across Virginia, visiting and meeting with the wives of Hispanic pastors. Whether gathering one-on-one over coffee or sharing lunch with a group of sisters, these meetings allow them to encourage one another and discuss challenges specific to their local mission fields. Support for these women continues through the Church Planter Care program in Virginia.
Marisol Santamaría, Hispanic Ministries Consultant, has described these gatherings as a great blessing. They bring together pastors’ wives within each region, creating opportunities for shared prayer, mutual encouragement, and relationships that grow stronger with each meeting. The goal is for these gatherings to multiply within local churches, fostering ongoing support under the guidance of the SBCV Women’s Ministry.
Building on this momentum, the 2026 conference, Arraigadas en Cristo (Rooted in Christ), will feature special guest Cathy Cheraldi, the wife of Dr. Miguel Núñez of the International Baptist Church, along with other workshop leaders.
All of these ministry efforts are made possible by the generous support of Vision Virginia and the Cooperative Program.
The wives of Hispanic pastors and church planters in Virginia are not alone—and they are deeply valued.
