Hispanic Congregations

Jose Nail is a minister who migrated to South Dakota from his native home, Chile, in 1970.  Jose and his family reside in Sioux Falls and travel to many other communities for ministry and worship services. 

God has used Jose and his family to start numerous churches.  In 2001 God led Jose to the New Church Planting committee with the American Baptist Churches of the Dakotas. 

While working on this committee, a young lady from Watertown approached Rev. Nail about starting a Spanish speaking church.  She told Rev. Nail she knew of several families in her community that were interested in such a church.  This group of people is currently meeting in homes for Bible study and fellowship while they prepare for public worship.  First Baptist Church in Watertown has graciously invited Rev. Nail and his congregation to come and use their facilities when the time is right.

There was also an earlier Spanish ministry at the Emmanuel Baptist Church in Sioux Falls.  Unfortunately, the initial pastoral leadership failed to gather a congregation.  In response to the lack of congregation, the New Church Planting committee closed the work at Emmanuel Baptist Church for a short time.  Since Jose was still living in Sioux Falls, he was able to stay in contact with a few of those first worshipers at the Emmanuel Baptist Church.  This contact multiplied the group, and eventually God had gathered a group of more than 30 worshipers.  These worshipers have since started Sunday evening services at Emmanuel again. 

Another important asset to the American Baptist Churches of the Dakotas Hispanic ministry comes through a partnership with the University of Sioux Falls.  The radio station on campus, 94.5 KCFS, has given Rev. Nail and his family 12 hours a week of FM broadcasting time.  This time allows Rev. Nail and his family to offer the only local Spanish programming.  During his broadcasting time, Rev. Nail shares his ministry with many people through Christian music and preaching.