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Iglesia Aliento, a Spanish-speaking congregation in downtown Phoenix, is celebrating its first anniversary as an official United Methodist Church. What began as a small Bible study has become a thriving church community with a bold mission: to help people grow in faith, overcome hardship, and become leaders in service to others.
Rev. Flor Granillo, the founding pastor, describes the church’s work as “discipleship in action.”
Iglesia Aliento provides practical resources to individuals and families facing poverty and instability and then equips them to serve others in return. As Rev. Granillo puts it, “Somebody helped us when we were in need. Now we teach people to go and do the same.”
Iglesia Aliento supports its community through ministries such as citizenship classes, children’s education, prayer groups, and help navigating legal, healthcare, and housing systems. The church also offers weekly worship services in Spanish and creates space for spiritual growth across all generations.
The congregation reflects the diversity and resilience of Phoenix’s immigrant community. Many of its members have experienced displacement, poverty, or marginalization.
Today, they are helping to shape a ministry rooted in compassion, justice, and the love of Jesus.
The church’s name, Aliento, means “breath” or “encouragement” in Spanish. That spirit can be felt in every part of the church’s life, from worship to outreach. Children learn about God’s love while building a foundation for a better future. Adults grow in confidence as they take on leadership roles. The entire church is working to create a ripple effect of people helping people across the city.
Iglesia Aliento is located at 701 South 1st Street in Phoenix. Sunday worship begins at 12:30 PM. The celebration and worship service on Sunday, October 12, will feature Latino-Caribbean music and mariachi, delicious tacos for everyone, and take-home gifts. Rev. Flor Granillo, pastor at Iglesia Aliento, invites everyone to come and support this special celebration and the ongoing ministry of Iglesia Aliento.
To learn more at www.iglesiaaliento.org.
Read more stories from the Phoenix Area on Signals A Z.com.
