DMC Feb. 2026 Recap – ESL

The recent gathering brought together pastors and ministry leaders to strengthen networking and collaboration among churches seeking to reach the nations in their own neighborhoods. A major focus of the meeting was English as a Second Language (ESL) ministry as a strategic pathway for gospel engagement among immigrants and refugees.

Brett Boesch, representing the Diaspora Missions Collective (DMC)—a partnership of the International Mission Board (IMB), the North American Mission Board (NAMB), the Woman’s Missionary Union (WMU), and others—provided leadership for the discussion. He framed the conversation biblically from Acts of the Apostles chapter 11, reminding attendees that effective ministry requires understanding both language and culture. Just as the early church learned to cross cultural boundaries with wisdom and sensitivity, today’s churches must prepare to serve increasingly diverse communities with intentionality and compassion.

Nashville Refugee Outreach Planning

Brett also highlighted several upcoming outreach opportunities designed to engage immigrant and refugee communities across the Nashville area. A Jesus Film Outreach initiative is planned for March and April, aiming to share the gospel in accessible and culturally meaningful ways.

Becky Wangner encouraged churches to participate in the upcoming missions conference at Oak Valley Baptist Church on May 2. Featured speakers will include Tom Doyle and Al-Fadi, both of whom bring extensive experience in ministry among Muslim-background believers and international communities.

Hom Soukasene shared a pressing need: International Community Church, which serves refugee families in Smyrna, Tennessee, is currently seeking a new church home. Leaders asked for prayer and assistance in identifying a suitable meeting location that will allow the ministry to continue serving displaced families effectively.

ESL Ministry Resources for Churches

Beth Moore of the Tennessee Baptist Mission Board presented practical resources to help churches launch or strengthen ESL ministries. She introduced a booklet on ministering to internationals and a comprehensive guide to building ESL programs. These materials address key planning considerations such as:

• Recruiting and training volunteers
• Determining class schedules
• Providing childcare
• Structuring lessons for varying language levels

Beth also introduced the Mindy Network, a new platform created to connect churches with ESL ministries. The network allows leaders to share curriculum ideas, best practices, and encouragement. Churches interested in starting or improving an ESL program are encouraged to contact Beth Moore for guidance and support.

Chinese New Year Outreach Event

Pastor Joshua Zhang of Nashville Chinese Baptist Church shared plans for a Chinese New Year Spring Festival outreach event. The event will take place at BCM Vanderbilt on February 28 from 5:00–7:00 PM and will be co-hosted with IFA.

The outreach is designed to connect with international students, particularly those from China, while welcoming students from many nations. Organizers expect more than 100 students to attend. The evening will include traditional food, cultural celebration, and intentional opportunities to share the gospel. Other churches are invited to volunteer, participate, and help build relationships with students who may have little exposure to Christianity.

ESL Program Revival: A Success Story

Pastor Ziero Esteban Solano, Hispanic pastor at First Mt Juliet, shared an encouraging testimony about reviving their ESL ministry. Due to funding cuts, attendance had dropped dramatically—from 30 participants to just six in 2025. Rather than closing the program, the church chose to rebuild.

By merging the ESL program with the Hispanic ministry and distributing flyers throughout the community, they welcomed 15 new participants in January alone. Pastor Solano emphasized the importance of embracing “small beginnings with big dreams.” The church’s mission—to “love God, love people, and go”—guides their approach.

He shared the story of a member of a local cleaning crew who enrolled in the program. As her English skills improved, so did her confidence and potential employment opportunities. Stories like this remind the church that ESL ministry meets both spiritual and practical needs.

Churches or individuals interested in partnering, growing or developing a new ESL program, GED-HiSET, or citizenship classes will have an opportunity to attend a training offered by NBA in partnership with First Mt Juliet on Saturday July 25th. Registration is required.

Nashville ESL Church Program: Antioch First Baptist

Pastor Matt Grey of Antioch First Baptist Church described his church’s ESL ministry in one of Nashville’s most diverse communities. The program began modestly with 13 students but has grown into a vibrant relational ministry.

Vanessa, the program director, explained that their approach focuses on practical English skills for adults—especially those who need language proficiency for employment and daily life. Classes are offered twice weekly during the day, and a simple play area is provided for children.

The church partners with a local elementary school and uses the InterCambio curriculum. Beyond classroom instruction, relationships are central. Teachers and students stay connected through WhatsApp and regular in-person interaction. Prayer and brief devotional elements are included naturally as part of the ministry’s rhythm.

Leaders emphasized that their goal is not to engage in political discussions but to serve people well, build trust, and demonstrate Christ’s love in tangible ways. Over time, these consistent relationships create meaningful opportunities for gospel conversations.

Moving Forward Together

Throughout the meeting, a common theme emerged: the nations are already here. Churches do not need to travel overseas to engage in global missions. Through ESL programs, cultural celebrations, refugee partnerships, and intentional collaboration, local congregations can faithfully reach immigrants and international students living in their communities.

The gathering reinforced the importance of partnership rather than isolation. By sharing resources, volunteers, facilities, and expertise, churches can multiply their impact. Leaders left encouraged by testimonies of growth, reminded of biblical foundations for cross-cultural ministry, and motivated to continue building bridges through language and hospitality.

All contacts, churches, and ministries mentioned above are available for connection and collaboration. For additional information or to get involved in upcoming initiatives, please contact Brett Boesch.

Together, Nashville-area churches are working to love God, love people, and reach the nations—right in their own backyard.