Shawn Clapp has been used by the Lord to be a great blessing to miners’ families in Huntington, Utah.  (See his article in the Western Reporter, here.) He was the official translator used by the mining company and Utah governor during this time of tragedy in August.  He told some wonderful stories of the many opportunities God gave him to witness the gospel and engage in Bible study during this morning in the early devotion/prayer time.

And before our prayer time, Shawn (with his guitar) and Penny led us in worship through this simple song (minus the accents),

“Libertad, Libertad, O que buena!  Es aquella que da el Salvador.  Libertad a las almas perdidas, Libertand de la condenacion.”

In the first morning workshop, Shawn touched on these main points:

1.  Methods of outreach

2.  The effects of Spanish ministry to Anglo churches.

3.  Dealing with prejudices.

4.  Learning Spanish is a start, but much more is needed to have a successful ministry.

5.  Reaching the Hispanic community as a mission field.

6.  The cultural challenges of the Hispanic community.

7.  The key to starting a Hispanic ministry is to have a Hispanic heading it up.

8.  There is no set answer to this type of ministry, it requires flexibility and adaptability.

9.  Ministry musts:  build relationships, reach the men.

10.  Long term commitment to ministry and discipleship needed due to Catholic traditions integrated into culture.

My initial observations:  I like this guy – very personable, full of humor, a love for people.