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“We are growing step by step,” is how Roberto Romero, pastor of Iglesia Cristiana Discipulos de Cristo, describes his ministry. He adds, “Like with everything, there are trials, some end up positive and some are negative.”
There is a saying, “Sometimes we choose the spotlight and sometimes the spotlight chooses us.” Romero has been pastoring Iglesia Cristiana for five years, and has a unique story about how he became leader of Iglesia Cristiana, which is currently nesting at United Church in Milwaukee WI.
Living in Milwaukee, Roberto attended Iglesia as a member. According to Roberto, the church suffered a crisis and the pastor left. Many of the members left, too. “I wanted to leave but the Lord stopped me,” he said. Roberto never wanted to be a pastor but the remnant of members asked him to fill the position. “I was listening to the voice of God and that is how I became their leader.” Now Roberto is confident that this is where he should be. “I believe with all my heart it was a calling to serve,” he said. “And, there is a necessity in the community.”
According to Roberto’s wife, Elena, “The congregation wanted somebody to give them the word of God and they chose him.”
However, she was not too thrilled about the situation. “The calling was for him,” said Elena. “I didn’t think the calling was for me.” She explains that she was not as receptive to the idea. “But, God talked to me, too.”
This has been a challenging experience for the couple, who have four children. “It is difficult,” said Roberto. “I’m in the process of finding a balance with family and church.” He stresses that attending meetings, such as the New Church Ministry Super Peer Group, has helped him find that balance. When Roberto first started pastoring, they had approximately 15 members. “I remember in one prayer meeting we had three people and one Sunday we had seven.” However, he attested that God made a way.
Since Roberto became pastor, the congregation has grown by approximately 70 people each Sunday. “We share the gospel of the Lord,” said Roberto. “All are welcome.” And he encourages those who attend the church to go out and share the gospel with their neighbors, on the job and other places.
Just like Roberto and other planters, Disciples will continue to expand our reach – planting churches and extending the witness to new mission fields. Join the efforts of New Church Ministry Disciples in Expanding the Table in the United States, Canada and right here in our Region by supporting the Pentecost Special Offering. This offering helps to fund recruitment, coaching and training of new church ministers. By Expanding the Table, you and New Church Ministry are reaching out to serve multitudes and to share God’s message in new ways. Offerings will be received in congregations on May 16 & 23, 2010. Thank you for your gifts!!
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