The First Hispanic Baptist Church in Hermitage began between 1995-1996. Rev. Ariel Hernandez began the process after having served as Director of Bartholomew Baptist Association's Mission Center of Hermitage, AR for a few years and saw the closing of such place. The pastor met with the congregation about his transfer to another location or decideif he was staying as a local pastor in an independent church. The congregation supported the project, but as there was no owned location at the time, the members congregated at First Hispanic Baptist Emmanuel of Warren, AR.

 

Rev. Ariel Hernandez and his wife, Elda Hernandez, bought a land, near the location members would congregate in Hermitage, and donated the lot to begin constructing what is today the First Hispanic Baptist Church in Hermitage.

 

There were many contributions from the congregation and many contributed to this monetary and labor effort, which was mostly done with the efforts of the members of the church. Many are no longer there for different reasons, but they have been a pillar in the construction and beginning of this place. In addition to the efforts of the congregation, we had the privilege of having some brothers contribute their talents in masonry, construction, carpentry, plumbing, and everything necessary.

​

This is how the Lord has helped us move forward. We are an independent Baptist Church, with public Worship and Sunday School services. Our commitment to the Lord is based on the Great Commission:

​

“And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying: All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit; teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and behold, I am with you always, to the end of the world. Amen."

(Matthew 28:18-20, Reina Valera 1960 version)