Church’s Open House Celebrates Gainesville Spanish Speaking Congregation

The Denton Texas Stake of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints hosted an all- Spanish speaking open house in Gainesville on August 31, 2019. To announce the formation of a Spanish-speaking congregation meeting in the Church’s Gainesville building, the surrounding community was invited to tour the building, learn about the Church’s organizations, and how the building will be used.

Over 125 guests attended, including Fort Worth Mission President Jeff Chapman, Denton Stake President Calvin Griffin, First Counselor Jason Labrum, Denton Spanish Ward Bishop Juan Martinez, and Young Single Adults Ward Bishop Tad Billmire.

After a traditional Mexican dinner, Brother David Barnett of the Gainesville Ward welcomed the group. President Griffin then spoke of inspiration from Heavenly Father for the choice of Gainesville as a new area of emphasis for Spanish-speaking members and friends. New Spanish-speaking missionaries have been assigned to the area in addition to the English-speaking missionaries already serving in Gainesville. This will open new opportunities for friends and fellowship with Hispanic neighbors in the Gainesville area.

As the event ended, several children contributed to busting open a beautiful piñata outside and sharing in the feast of candy released.

This event highlighted the Church’s purpose of coming unto Christ, making Him the center in our lives. Elder Jeffrey R. Holland of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints recently encouraged members to invite their neighbors to enjoy the blessings that come through Jesus Christ. The Book of Mormon: Another Testament of Jesus Christ states, “Behold, He sendeth an invitation unto all men, for the arms of mercy are extended towards them [ . . . ] Come unto me and ye shall partake of the fruit of the tree of life.” (Alma 5:33-34)

Jim Sitton is a member of the Denton 1^st Ward of the Denton Texas Stake of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.