“Sometimes, God starts with the simplest ingredients—a conversation, a prayer, a plate of churros—and turns them into something extraordinary.”
In this interview, we explore the journey of the Churros and Chocolate Faith Community, a vibrant bilingual and multicultural group dedicated to making disciples of Christ while celebrating cultural diversity. From humble beginnings, they’ve grown into a welcoming space for all.
A Spark in the Parking Lot: The Beginning of Something Bigger
Can you share how the Churros and Chocolate Faith Community began?
It all started in the spring of 2017 in a preschool parking lot. I met another mom who spoke Spanish, and we quickly connected. Through our conversations, she opened up about struggles in her marriage. I felt a nudge to invite her over to pray and talk, which became a regular practice. Over time, I saw God bring healing and hope into her life.
From there, I invited another friend from Mexico to join us, and soon, we were a small group of women singing, praying, and studying the Bible together. What began as three women grew into a group of 13 meeting every Friday for coffee and prayer. The connection was undeniable, and God was moving in ways that amazed us.
From Coffee and Prayer to Family Fellowship
What inspired the shift from a prayer group to a family-focused community?
As we prayed together, many women expressed concerns about their husbands and families. My husband and I felt called to include the whole family in what we were building. That’s when the idea of churros and hot chocolate came up—something culturally familiar and inviting. We held our first gathering at a banquet hall since our home couldn’t accommodate everyone.
To our surprise, 46 people showed up that night. We shared a meal, worshiped bilingually, and studied the Bible together. The enthusiasm was so great that people asked, “Are we doing this again?” That’s when we knew God was calling us to something bigger.
Creating a Welcoming Space for All
What does a typical gathering look like now?
Our community has evolved significantly. Initially, we met monthly, but in January 2024, we transitioned to weekly worship services on Sunday evenings, while still hosting monthly dinners. Each dinner remains a time for fellowship, outreach, and bilingual worship. We’ve also formed smaller groups during the week for prayer, Bible study, and serving the community.
What makes our gatherings unique is the intentional focus on inclusion and belonging. From the food to the bilingual services, we aim to create a space where everyone—regardless of background—feels at home.
The Impact of Faith and Fellowship
How has this journey impacted your faith and the community?
Looking back, I’m in awe of how God used something as simple as churros and chocolate to create a thriving faith community. We’ve seen answered prayers, transformed lives, and a deep sense of belonging among people who once felt disconnected. Personally, this journey has taught me to trust God’s timing and provision.
For the community, it’s become a place of love, healing, and shared purpose. People from different walks of life have come together, finding not only faith but also a family. The joy and fellowship we share each week remind us of God’s heart for His people.
Advice for Aspiring Faith Community Leaders
What would you say to others considering starting a similar faith community?
Start small and trust God with the rest. For us, it began with simple conversations and prayer, followed by small, faithful steps forward. God provides the people, resources, and direction when you are willing to listen and wait for His leading.
Remember, if God can use something as small as churros and chocolate, He can work through anything. Just take the first step in faith, and watch what He does.
Reflection Questions:
- How can small, everyday moments—like a conversation in a parking lot—be opportunities for God to work in building community and faith?
- In what ways can food, culture, and hospitality be used as tools for creating spaces of belonging and inclusion in your own context?
- How might God be calling you to expand your current ministry or outreach to include individuals or families who feel unseen or disconnected?
- What steps of faith or acts of trust can you take today, even if you don’t see the full picture of what God is leading you toward?
