Saddleback Celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month

For several decades, September 15 to October 15 has been designated as Hispanic Heritage Month in the United States. It is a period of time set aside to recognize the unique contributions of Hispanic Americans and how various communities benefit from their rich and diverse cultural backgrounds.

The Hispanic community is an integral part of Saddleback’s DNA. The church would not be the same without our Hispanic brothers and sisters God has called to be a part of this family. This year, we are highlighting three members of Saddleback’s Hispanic community who have helped shape our church and our broader community by using their unique gifts and talents to serve others.

Carlos Olamendi is a longtime member of Saddleback Church and owner of a local authentic Mexican restaurant. The values he has learned through his culture and his church have allowed him to care for his customers in unique ways.

Aldo Fratti, a graphic design artist on staff at Saddleback, moved to the United States from El Salvador as a boy. His mother always knew he had an artistic gift and prayed he would be able to utilize his talents to serve God. As a Saddleback designer, Aldo creates works of art that inspire people of all different backgrounds and ethnicities. 

Emi Sivil has volunteered at dozens of Saddleback’s grocery distribution events and has led more than 1,200 people to Jesus. At first, Emi worried that her Argentinian accent would be a barrier to communicate the love of Christ to people. Instead God has used her native language to witness to others. 

For more of their stories, check out the video above.