The series of meetings held at the White Memorial church March 8 to 14 lived up to its title, “La Esperanza Es Jesus,” emphasizing the hope and solutions that Jesus alone can give each day. “In all places, people need Jesus,” said Pastor Alejandro Bullón, the internationally-known evangelist and author who spoke for the series. “Postmodern, secularists—all people—have financial, family and health problems. Jesus is the solution.”

Pastors from many Hispanic churches in the Southern California Conference assisted with the nightly meetings that included children’s programs and a light meal after the service. Capacity crowds filled the sanctuary and balconies most evenings, at times spilling out onto the patio and in the gym, where additional large screens were set up for them to view the meetings.

Three baptisms highlighted the extensive efforts of pastors in preparing people for the event. “Patricia came one evening,” reported Guglielmo Garcia, who emceed the meetings. “When she listened to Pastor Bullón’s message, one phrase strongly impressed her. It was, ‘Always speak the truth.’ It spoke to her heart because,” she said, “I have been lying to my husband. I decided to stop lying. When you live on lies, you cannot be happy.’”

“The intention of Pastor Bullon’s meetings is mostly reaping,” explained Alfredo Lee, director of the Hispanic Region, which sponsored the series. “Pastors bring people whom they feel are interested. Each evening, people responded to specific altar calls—to commit their lives to Him; to commit to studying the Bible; finally, a call for those desiring baptism. Pastors are following up with the 170 persons who responded.”

A section at the rear of the White Memorial church sanctuary was reserved for the nearly 30 English-speaking visitors who attended nightly meetings of the series. Headsets made it possible for the guests to hear the evangelist’s sermons in English, translated by host pastor, Benjamin Del Pozo.

During the series, flyers announced a “Resurrection Celebration” early Sabbath service in English at WMC, marking the beginning of a weekly early service. About 50 people attended the first 8 a.m. service on Easter weekend, enjoying fellowship over a light breakfast. A praise team led a song service and performed special numbers, accompanied by keyboardist Rolando Santos. Del Pozo’s resurrection message focused on Jesus’ unchangeable purpose, available power and reliable promises today.

In addition to the new ministry for the English-speaking guests who attended the evangelistic series, DVDs of the meetings produced by the church’s video staff are available. Call Amy Gallegos, 323-264-2170, for details.