Pastor Leo Castro of Eternidad Christian Center  is leading a building project for his church that is being funded through innovative community efforts. The church, which serves an ethnically diverse congregation with a large Hispanic population, is undergoing a three-phase renovation process.

Phase one is complete, and phase two is underway, which involves renovating the church’s patio to create a community event space. Phase three will focus on building a new sanctuary. To fund the project, the church is relying on the talents and skills of its congregation, with members volunteering their time and expertise in construction, cooking, and other areas.

The church is also hosting monthly fundraising meals cooked by its talented chefs, which are open to the community. This unique approach to funding the building project reflects the church’s commitment to serving its diverse community.

Pastor Leo Castro, the founder of Eternidad Centro Cristiano (Eternity Christian Center) discusses the unique challenges of starting a church that serves a predominantly Hispanic immigrant community, including language and cultural barriers, high turnover, and financial constraints. Despite these challenges, Pastor Leo highlights the blessings of serving the members of his church. There is a strong sense of family, a joy in working together, and great rewards in assisting this underserved segment of our region. 

He emphasizes the importance of equipping believers to be disciples and ministers, rather than just focusing on church attendance numbers. His vision is for churches in the Reno area to come together in unity to reach the community with the love of Jesus Christ.