Stepping into the vibrant tapestry of faith and community, we find ourselves at the First Hispanic Pentecostal Church in Toronto. This church isn’t just a building. It’s a testament to the enduring spirit of the Hispanic Pentecostal community in this city. The First Hispanic Pentecostal Church, originally known as Iglesia Evangelica Hispana, has been a beacon of hope and spiritual guidance since its humble beginnings.
The story of the First Hispanic Pentecostal Church begins in 1968 with Pastor Pablo Sorensen and his wife, Dorothy. They opened their hearts and the doors of the Danforth Gospel Temple to the growing number of Hispanic immigrants arriving in Toronto. This act of kindness led to the creation of a dedicated space for the Hispanic community, first on Donlands Avenue and later at St. Matthew’s United Church. The seeds of the First Hispanic Pentecostal Church were sown. In 1980, Pastor Eusebio Perez and his wife, Carmina, took the helm, guiding the church for an incredible 42 years. Their leadership and dedication shaped the church into the vibrant community it is today. The official dedication of the church building at 804 Broadview Avenue on November 14, 1982, was a milestone. Each November since, the church commemorates this anniversary with a vibrant celebration, culminating in a parade of flags representing the more than 23 nations that make up the congregation. The First Hispanic Pentecostal Church stands as a symbol of unity and cultural diversity.
Today, the First Hispanic Pentecostal Church, under the leadership of Pastors Ervis and Tamara Duardo since 2023, continues to flourish. It remains a pillar of the Hispanic community, a place where people from all walks of life come together to worship, connect, and serve. The church’s rich history, marked by dedication, growth, and unwavering faith, continues to inspire. It serves as a reminder of the power of community and the enduring spirit of the First Hispanic Pentecostal Church in Toronto.