Armando Anguiano: The Vision to Plant 100 Churches

In the northern part of The Woodlands, Texas, a faith community is witnessing an inspiring story. Pastor Armando, together with his wife Sara, has embarked on an ambitious project: to plant 100 Hispanic churches in the coming years. This vision comes from a generous heart, guided by the belief that the Gospel can bring purpose and transformation to the lives of many people.

“How about 100 churches?” Armando asks. The answer is clear: in a region where 40% of the population is Hispanic, the spiritual challenge is greater than many imagine. With the growth of the Hispanic community, it is expected that by 2030, up to 90% of the population will speak Spanish. This scenario has driven the church to act with urgency and seek the spiritual well-being of a community that, for the most part, faces challenges in adaptation and acceptance.

The Impact of the Hispanic Community

Armando is 55 years old and, together with his family, has made the United States his home for the past 12 years. Before coming to Texas, he had apparent success in Mexico, but he felt the need for a space to reconnect with his family and seek spiritual direction. “The primary idea was to come to this wonderful place so that my children could improve their language skills and so that I could pray and seek God,” he shares.

The call to be a pastor is something beyond a personal choice. According to Armando, “The work of a pastor has more to do with the gifts and purpose for which you were created than with something you choose out of preference.” This calling becomes even more relevant in a context like the United States, where the growth of the Hispanic community is undeniable. The contribution of Latinos is key not only for the economy but also for the social and spiritual development of this nation.

Spiritual Challenges and the Importance of Spirit Care

One of the major challenges the church faces today is the disenchantment some feel toward the spiritual realm, especially in such a fast-paced and materialistic world. Technology, social media, and the constant pursuit of the physical and external have led many to neglect what truly matters: the care of the spirit.

“The world has changed a lot. We focus on the exterior, on the body, and on emotions, but we forget that we are also a spirit,” reflects Armando. “Just as we exercise to care for our bodies, we must also be intentional about caring for our spirit. My challenge for you is: what are you doing today to care for your spirit?”

Comparing spiritual life to physical training, Armando makes a powerful analogy: “When you go to a gym, you can be disciplined, but if you don’t follow the instructions of an experienced coach, your efforts won’t be as effective. The same happens with spiritual life. We need the guidance of someone who knows the way.”

The Legacy of Rick Warren and the Humility of a Leader

Throughout his journey, Armando has had the opportunity to work with international figures like Rick Warren, a Christian leader known worldwide. For him, the most impactful aspect of Warren is his humility. “It’s impressive to see how someone with so much influence continues to demonstrate a humble heart full of love for others,” says Armando.

The Reality of Being a Pastor: A Calling with a High Price

Being a pastor is not easy, especially when people expect you to have all the answers. “Pastors are human, we have challenges, we suffer, and we go through times of pain and depression,” says Armando. A pastor’s daily life can be emotionally exhausting, as preaching a message is like running a half marathon in terms of energy. However, the key to enduring these challenges is maintaining a genuine relationship with God.

“What really makes the difference is knowing God in a real way. When you do, no matter what you face, there is always hope,” Armando concludes.

A Message for Hispanics: Contributing to the Future of a Nation

For Hispanics coming to the United States, Armando has a clear message: “This country has been a fertile ground for many, and it’s exciting to see how the Hispanic community is contributing with effort and dedication. Here, it’s not about seeing ourselves as inferior or superior, but recognizing that we all have the same opportunities and the same potential.”

The Call to Not Live in Mediocrity

With 50 years of life experience and reflection, Armando closes the interview by sharing something that deeply angers him: “Mediocrity. I can’t stand seeing people limit themselves, how they believe they can’t achieve more, how they settle for living a life that doesn’t reflect their true potential.”

This message of hope, challenge, and action is what drives Armando and his church to continue pursuing their vision of planting 100 Hispanic churches. It is a project that aims not to elevate names but to transform lives and bless the community with the purposeful message the Gospel brings.