Just a few weeks ago, I had the joy of attending the Renovados Conference at Swift Creek Baptist Church in Midlothian. More than 500 people—pastors, church leaders, families, and children—gathered together to fellowship, worship and hear God’s Word. The atmosphere was alive with life and renewal. Songs of praise rose from hundreds of voices and many different instruments. Children laughed as they learned about Jesus, and families worshiped side by side. It was more than just a conference—it was a glimpse into what God is doing across Virginia.
As I looked around the room, I was struck by the beautiful diversity of God’s Kingdom. This wasn’t just one people group or one church family—it was the nations gathered together in our own Commonwealth. And it reminded me that Virginia is changing before our very eyes. Families are moving here from Central and South America, from Africa, from Asia, and from the Middle East. In fact, every nation recognized by the United Nations is here. Hispanic brothers and sisters now make up 12% of Virginia and live in every county. One in four households speaks a language other than English.
The Great Commission is clear: we are called to make disciples of all nations. And when God brings the nations to our doorstep, He is entrusting us with that mission in a very tangible way. The mission field is not just across the ocean anymore—it is across the street, in our schools, in our workplaces, and in the very neighborhoods where we live.
I am encouraged to see that the SBC of Virginia is stepping into this moment with boldness and faith. Right now, there are over 60 Hispanic churches in our network—each one faithfully proclaiming the Gospel and reaching its communities. Beyond that, there are 26 other ethnic church plants that represent God’s incredible creativity in building His Church: Chinese, Vietnamese, Portuguese, Ethiopian, Eritrean, Deaf, Haitian, Oromo, and Arabic congregations—just to name a few. Each of these churches is a living testimony that the Gospel truly is for all people, in every language and culture.
At the SBCV, we are committed to coming alongside local churches to help them reach their mission field for Christ. You are not alone in this work. Whether your community is predominantly Hispanic, African, Asian, or Middle Eastern—or whether you are simply beginning to notice more diversity in your own neighborhood—we want to walk with you, encourage you, and equip you to share the hope of Jesus with every person God has placed around you.
Renovados was not simply an event or highlight on the calendar; it was a reminder of what God is calling us to do together. We can welcome families from around the world with Christ’s love. We can stand shoulder to shoulder with our Hispanic and ethnic brothers and sisters, not only celebrating what God is doing in their churches but also joining them in the work of evangelism and discipleship.
God has brought the nations to Virginia. Will we be faithful to reach them? The harvest is ready, the workers are here, and the Gospel is powerful enough to transform every life.
