Hispanic Church Planters Face Unique Challenges and Opportunities

New study highlights the growth and obstacles for Hispanic congregations in the U.S.

Published on Mar. 3, 2026

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A new study by Lifeway Research found that Hispanic church plants in the U.S. are seeing consistent growth, with the average new congregation reaching 85 attendees by their eighth year. However, Hispanic church planters also face unique challenges such as assimilating into a new cultural context, addressing immigration-related fears and uncertainty among congregants, and balancing bilingual ministry. Despite these obstacles, Hispanic church planters remain focused on evangelism, discipleship, and reaching the next generation.

Why it matters

The growth of Hispanic Protestant churches in the U.S. reflects the increasing diversity of the American religious landscape. Understanding the specific opportunities and challenges faced by Hispanic church planters provides insight into how the Church can effectively minister to immigrant and minority communities.

The details

The Lifeway Research study found that the average new Hispanic church plant starts with 31 people but grows consistently, reaching 85 attendees by the eighth year. Over 75% of the pastors leading these new congregations are first-generation immigrants. While this multicultural background can be an advantage, allowing them to focus on the Gospel without distractions, it also presents challenges around assimilating into the new cultural context. Many Hispanic church plants struggle with bilingual ministry, immigration-related fears among congregants, and declining attendance and finances when members are unable to work due to changes in government practices. However, 38% of Hispanic church plants have also seen increased interest from unchurched Hispanics seeking hope, and many are partnering with English-speaking Anglo churches to expand their reach.

  • The Lifeway Research study was conducted in 2026.
  • José Abella planted Providence Road Church in Miami in 2010 and was named vice president of Send Network Español, the North American Mission Board's Hispanic church planting efforts, in 2024.

The players

José Abella

The pastor who planted Providence Road Church in Miami in 2010 and was named vice president of Send Network Español, the North American Mission Board's Hispanic church planting efforts, in 2024.

Lifeway Research

A research organization that conducted a study on the growth and challenges of new Hispanic church plants in the U.S.

Send Network Español

The Hispanic church planting efforts of the North American Mission Board.

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What they’re saying

“It is a realization that the Lord is saving people from every tribe, nation and language.”

— José Abella, Vice President, Send Network Español (Baptist Press)

“There's a lot we can do with a little. The kingdom of God is not primarily about big budgets and the logistical means to get things done. It's planting seeds and trusting the Lord to make it grow.”

— José Abella, Vice President, Send Network Español (Baptist Press)

What’s next

The North American Mission Board plans to continue supporting and equipping Hispanic church planters to reach their communities with the gospel.

The takeaway

Despite facing unique cultural and immigration-related challenges, Hispanic church planters in the U.S. are seeing consistent growth in their congregations by remaining focused on evangelism, discipleship, and reaching the next generation. Their example of doing 'a lot with a little' offers valuable lessons for all church leaders.