Message from Pastora Bañales

Annual LCNN Gathering this March 8-11, 2026 at the Kellogg Conferences Hotel in Washington DC.

For the last five years I have attended the LCNN Annual gathering. This year they asked us to invite people from our denominations those who accompany the people in need as immigrants. NTNL synod represented by: Rev. Moises Carrasquillo, Rev. Jesus Escamilla, PLM Lupita Escamilla and Office Administrator/Community Center; Emanuel, Dallas, Blanca Illades.

THEME: Wisdom & Witness in Turbulent Times

– How should the Church bear witness to the gospel, justice, and love in turbulent political times?
– How do we raise our voices and stand against the persecution of our Latino families?
– Is there a common message and faithful stance we can take as church leaders in this time of political crisis?
– What is the role of the Church when democracy is subverted?

During our time together I experienced the wisdom for a nation in crisis, strengthen our unity, and deepen the fellowship that is central to our mission.

Over 100 people from different faiths attended. We visited the capitol hill representing the states where we reside.
The three critical areas we advocate are: Protect Sensitive Locations, Ensure Lawful, accountable, and effective immigration Enforcement, and Strengthen Legal Pathways and Family Stability. 12 people from Texas visited John Cornyn and Ted Cruz.

The Latino Christian National Network (LCNN) is a vibrant community of Latino Christian leaders representing Evangelical, Pentecostal, Historic Protestant and Catholic traditions across the U.S. United by our faith, we create a space for respectful dialogue and mutual support, embracing our diverse perspectives to deepen our understanding of God. Through prayer, meaningful conversation and professional growth, we tackle critical social and political issues such as immigration, health, climate change, racism and poverty. We recognize that the different expressions of faith can contribute to our ever-growing understanding of God. And with that, we aim to amplify our voices and foster action that makes a tangible difference.

Empowering Latino Christian Leaders for Social Impact

Latino Christian National Network (LCNN) unites Latino Christian leaders to honor God through collaboration and action. We foster open dialogue, mutual support, and engagement in key social and political issues—such as immigration, violence, health, climate change, racism, and poverty. By amplifying our voices through media and advocacy, we strive to drive positive change within our churches and society, deepening our impact and strengthening our collective commitment.

I would like to share her experience with one of the participants from our synod. Please keep praying for our families in our synod and the ELCA that are going through difficult times in their lives.

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From Blanca Illades
Subject: Latino Christian National Network Gathering, my experience in Washington, D.C.

Dear Emanuel Congregation,

This week I had the privilege of traveling to Washington, D.C., invited by the Northern Texas–Northern Louisiana Synod; Rev Irma Banales, to participate in a national gathering of the Latino Christian National Network. I was invited in recognition of the commitment our congregation has shown in Hispanic ministries and in supporting refugee families, asylum seekers, and immigrants.
This experience was deeply meaningful to me. The gathering brought together representatives from different denominations and churches, most of them Protestant. It was inspiring to see so many communities of faith united with a common purpose: to defend human dignity and promote justice through our Christian faith.
One of the most important parts of the trip was visiting the offices of legislators in Washington, D.C. These meetings were spaces for advocacy, dialogue, and reflection, where we shared concerns and hopes about issues affecting our communities.
I felt honored and encouraged to know that the Synod recognizes the work of Emanuel Lutheran Church as a congregation willing to stand for advocacy and human rights. It was a privilege to represent our church in these conversations.
During these meetings we emphasized the importance of protecting the constitutional rights of all people, as well as respecting sacred spaces such as churches and hospitals, places that have historically offered refuge and care to those in need.

Some of the main topics discussed included:

• Racism
• Migration and immigration
• Poverty
• Public ethics
• Human rights

One reflection that stayed with me is that Christian wisdom is not only expressed through words, but through the way we live our lives. True wisdom becomes visible through our actions.
We were also reminded that leadership without wisdom can be dangerous, because it can create unnecessary conflict instead of building justice and peace.
This experience led me to reflect on an important question that I would like to share with all of you:
What kind of wisdom are we planting here at Emanuel?
I truly believe that the Holy Spirit continues to call us to restore human dignity, work for unity among churches, and move beyond political divisions so we can faithfully carry out our mission as the people of God.
This trip has strengthened my conviction that Emanuel can be a place of education, prayer, and support for our community. When the church educates, prays, and acts with love, we help build a healthier democracy and a more just society.
I am grateful for the opportunity to represent our congregation and for Emanuel’s continued support of this work of faith and service.

With gratitude and hope,

Blanca Patricia Illades
Office Administrator
Emanuel Lutheran Church – Dallas

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Join youth from around the synod at Camp Ascend (5218 Kiwanis Rd, Dallas, TX 75236). The retreat starts at 8:00pm on Friday, April 10th and concludes by 6:45pm on Saturday, April 11th. Register and find more information here.

NT-NL synod staff are excited to engage in-person on Sundays for worship. As good stewards of time and travel dollars, we will be utilizing online meeting formats in our new hybrid reality when possible. If you would like to schedule a meeting with the bishop or Synod staff please contact them directly.

Bishop Gronberg:

March 28: Lutheran Foundation of the Southwest Board Meeting, Fort Worth
March 29: Central, Dallas

Pastora Bañales:

March 16-20: Vacation

Pastor Fitting-Snyder:

April 5: Trinity, Clifton
April 12: Immanuel, Killeen
April 18: NT-NL Candidacy Meeting
April 19: Faith, Flower Mound
April 21: Leading Worship Workshop, Baylor University
April 24-25: NT-NL Synod Assembly, Advent, Arlington
April 26-May 1: Vacation