Historic Appointment in Evangelical Advocacy
Juan Rivera, lead pastor of Victory Church near Youngstown, Ohio, has been appointed as the first president of the Hispanic Israel Leadership Coalition (HILC). The announcement came from the National Hispanic Christian Leadership Conference (NHCLC), a global network representing tens of thousands of churches. Rivera has led HILC as its executive director since 2017 and will now guide its national strategy.
Rivera’s Vision and Mission
In a statement, Rivera framed the role as both political and biblical. He urged Hispanic Evangelicals to take a stand against rising antisemitism worldwide. He emphasized building solidarity with Israel and fostering unity with Jewish communities. Rivera described HILC’s mission as creating “the greatest firewall against antisemitism the world has ever seen.”
Longstanding Ties to Jewish Communities
Rivera’s relationship with Jewish leaders began after a 2010 church trip to Israel, which he described as transformative. Following that experience, his congregation donated regularly to local synagogues and developed close ties with rabbis. After becoming Victory Church’s lead pastor, he expanded outreach efforts, including co-organizing a 2018 trip to Israel for pastors.
Responsibilities in New Role
As president, Rivera will oversee advocacy campaigns, strategic partnerships, and national initiatives connecting Hispanic and Israeli communities. His leadership will focus on mutual respect, shared values, and cooperative projects. He also continues serving as Ohio Chapter Director for the NHCLC.
Supporters and Detractors
Supporters view Rivera’s appointment as a step toward stronger interfaith alliances and a united stance against antisemitism. They see his leadership as vital for mobilizing Hispanic Evangelicals in global advocacy. Critics, however, caution that linking religious missions too closely with political causes may risk alienating members who hold differing views on Middle East policy. They also warn that such alignment could complicate broader church unity.
Source:
NHCLC Appoints Ohio Pastor as the First President of the Hispanic Israel Leadership Coalition
Image: YouTube, Victory Church
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