Bob Cook, pastor of the Church at Grace Park
Bob Cook is the senior pastor at the Church of Grace Park in Whitehouse, TN. They have been a member of the association for many years. Last December their church helped host our Christmas banquet for ethnic pastors. It is something they have done for many years, and after a few years hiatus they were eager to restart this ministry.
Frank Urroz is the pastor of Hispana-Gallatin, a Spanish-speaking fellowship, which meets at the First Baptist Church of Gallatin. Frank was at our Christmas Party. I wanted these two pastors to get together for mutual encouragement and future partnerships, so we met one day for lunch at a local cantina. Over tacos and fajitas we listened to each other’s stories. Pastor Frank works full time construction at different sites in downtown Nashville. Like most of our ethnic pastors he is bi-vocational, working a full-time job to support his family while preparing for Sunday sermons at night.
Frank Urroz, pastor of Hispana-Gallatin
Almost flippantly, I tossed out an idea to my brothers about the possibility of Grace Park hosting a Spanish speaking Sunday once a year, where Frank could share his testimony and could lead in Spanish worship. Bob could perhaps visit Frank’s church once a year and preach and maybe the partnership could grow from there. But as I talked, Bob’s countenance changed. His compassion for Frank as a fellow pastor who was also working bi-vocationally overwhelmed him. After a few more questions, Bob offered Frank a part-time job at Grace Park so he wouldn’t have to travel so far to Nashville every day and the opportunity to start a bible study for Spanish speakers in Goodlettsville.
Praise God -- this is happening. May our Father raise up many more “Bobs” for every “Frank.”
Update on pastor Oscar Aguilar: Oscar has been home for a couple of weeks now. His color and mobility have greatly improved. Oscar's wife, Miriam, and his son, John, are an ever-present help. He still needs help moving from bed to chair, bathing, etc. Like most strong-willed pastors, he is frustrated by his reliance on others. John hopes to have a ramp built soon so Oscar can sit outside in the sunlight. Thanks for your continued prayers.
If your church would like to partner with an Ethnic Congregation, please call me at the NBA Office. 615-259-3034
Blessings,
Brett Boesch
International Ministry Strategist
bboesch@nashvillebaptists.com