Churros and Chocolate: How a Fresh Expression Is Transforming a Community
In the small town of Marion, Illinois, something extraordinary is brewing—and it starts with churros, chocolate, and a simple act of hospitality. The Churros and Chocolate Faith Community began with a parking lot conversation between two moms in 2017 and has grown into a thriving, multicultural Fresh Expression of church. By embracing the power of shared meals, bilingual worship, and intentional relationships, this faith community is transforming lives and uniting families.
For pastors, church leaders, and denominational decision-makers, this story is a powerful reminder that Fresh Expressions are not just innovative—they are achievable, even in the simplest of settings.
Small Beginnings, Big Impact
“Sometimes, God starts with the simplest ingredients—a conversation, a prayer, a plate of churros—and turns them into something extraordinary.”
This Fresh Expression began with a few women gathering to pray, support one another, and grow in faith. But as their circle grew, so did their vision. They noticed a need to include husbands, children, and entire families in their gatherings. Their solution? Hosting a churros and hot chocolate night—a warm, culturally familiar way to connect.
What started as a single gathering drew 46 attendees, who shared meals, worshiped bilingually, and left asking, “Are we doing this again?” From that moment, the community expanded, hosting monthly dinners and eventually launching weekly worship services.
Today, this Fresh Expression meets the spiritual and social needs of Hispanic families in Waco while creating a space where cultural diversity is celebrated, and everyone feels at home.
Meeting the Needs of a Changing World
Communities like Marion, Illinois, face challenges like economic strain, isolation, and limited access to resources. For the town’s Hispanic population, these challenges are often amplified by language barriers and cultural differences. Traditional models of church sometimes fail to meet these unique needs.
That’s where Fresh Expressions like Churros and Chocolate shine. They embody principles such as contextual ministry and incarnational mission, meeting people where they are and making faith accessible. Leaders have shared how the gatherings intentionally create a safe, welcoming space for families. “This community has become my family,” shared one participant. “I came for the food and stayed for the love.”
The leaders have seen firsthand how God can work through something as simple as churros and hot chocolate to build community, restore relationships, and ignite spiritual growth. Their commitment to listening to their community’s needs and responding with love and creativity has made a lasting impact.
Living Out the Fresh Expressions Journey
The success of the Churros and Chocolate Faith Community illustrates the power of the Fresh Expressions journey. It began with intentional conversations, listening to the struggles and hopes of the community. From there, the leaders focused on loving and serving others through prayer groups and family gatherings. These efforts fostered trust and belonging, breaking down cultural and linguistic barriers. Weekly worship services and small groups now provide a deeper space for discipleship, leadership development, and spiritual growth.
Each step of this journey reflects the heart of the Fresh Expressions movement: building faith communities that are contextual, organic, and deeply relational.
Take the First Step in Faith
The story of Churros and Chocolate highlights a profound truth: Fresh Expressions are not about flashy programs or perfect strategies—they’re about ordinary people responding to God’s call in creative, authentic ways.
“If God can use churros and chocolate to transform lives, imagine what He can do through you.”
Snapshot of a Fresh Expression of Church
What is the Fresh Expression called?
Churros and Chocolate
Where is it?
Marion, Illinois
Who is it for?
Churros and Chocolate is for Hispanic families and individuals who seek connection, community, and spiritual growth in a welcoming and culturally familiar space. It is also for those who may feel disconnected from traditional church settings, offering an inclusive environment where they can experience belonging, prayer, and God’s love.
What do they do?
Churros and Chocolate bridges cultural and linguistic divides, fostering unity and transformation through shared meals, bilingual worship, and intentional relationships. It creates a safe, welcoming space where families can experience God’s love, grow in faith, and build a supportive community that celebrates their cultural identity.
Who is the Pioneer?
Rocio Reyes and Russell Williams
Where can I learn more?
Churros and Chocolate Facebook
Churros and Chocolate: An Interview About Faith, Family, and Fellowship
