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Over the weekend, the First Hispanic Church of LaGrange celebrated its 25th anniversary at Unity Baptist Church. In honor of its silver status, the church held a weekend-long celebration filled with community recognition and worship.

Hugo Oropeza, the pastor of the church, said it’s an honor to be able to celebrate 25 years of fellowship and community in Troup County.

“I never imagined we would survive 25 years. When we first started, there weren’t many Latino people in LaGrange — there may have been maybe 50 people but not as many as we have now,” Oropeza said. “All these years, we have been blessed to have people from Argentina, Chile, Venezuela, Colombia, Dominican Republic, and Mexico, come worship with us. We serve the Lord with a lot of passion, with the only purpose to give the gospel of Jesus.”

Oropeza said they are excited to be a part of the church and still have the opportunity spread the word of God.

During the Saturday ceremony, the church took the time to recognize community members and organizations for their impact on the Hispanic community. Among those recognized were

Commission Chairman, Patrick Crews and David Blackwell, CEO of Blackwell’s Inc.

“I met Pastor Hugo probably 25 years ago and have had a great relationship with him over the years,” Crews said. “As a community leader, we appreciate what this church means, particularly for the Hispanic people in our community and appreciate what he does to lead the congregation for the glory of God. We wish him the best for another 25 years of service in Troup County.”

Blackwell said as an employer, he has worked with many Hispanic people over the years.

“I have quite a number of Hispanic associates that work with me and since probably 1995 in Troup County. We have tried to make every resource available to the associates that I have working with me to have an opportunity to find fellowship and Christ with other Hispanics in the community,” Blackwell said. “It’s been a good thing for those that are away from home to be able to share with others, their faith, their sorrows, their sadness and that’s what the First Hispanic Church of LaGrange has done for our community.”

Since 1998, the First Hispanic Church of LaGrange has been a place of community and worship.

In the church’s 25-year history, the church has not only been a place of worship but a place that is a resource to help Hispanic individuals learn English, get transportation, jobs, housing and more.

As of 2023, the church has a membership of approximately 130 people.