Hispanic Ministry at St. James

Located just blocks from the Pacific Ocean, St. James Lutheran Church has a long and meaningful history of Hispanic ministry in Imperial Beach. Though that ministry had waned over time, the church is now prayerfully seeking to rekindle it—becoming once again a place of welcome, Word, and sacrament for Spanish-speaking families in the neighborhood.

Missionary Gustavo Valderrama, who also serves as the church’s vicar, is carefully laying the groundwork. The early focus is on building trust, reconnecting with the community, and forming relationships with neighbors who may have little connection to the church. Conversations, visits, and simple acts of service are opening doors to new opportunities.

The vision is for these personal encounters to grow into Bible study gatherings and, in God’s timing, a vibrant worshiping community. The congregation of St. James is walking alongside Gustavo, rediscovering their calling to reach their neighbors. Though still in its infancy, this ministry carries the prayers of the church, the weight of history, and the hope of a new beginning—reviving what once seemed lost with fresh energy and purpose.