Meet Alex and Silvia Herrera: A Story of Faith and Passion

Who is Alex Herrera, and How Did He Get Here?

I was born in Mexico City into a family of six—my parents, three brothers, and me. I am the oldest sibling. One of my siblings, my sister, is already in the presence of God. We are the fourth generation of Christians on my mother's side, while my father was Catholic.

This is where my story begins. The difference in religious beliefs between my parents often led to conflict during family gatherings with uncles, grandparents, and extended family. As Mexicans, we love to celebrate everything, and these gatherings were frequent. Because of my parents' differing faiths, I attended both religious traditions—more often, the Catholic church with my father. I didn’t understand much there, and honestly, I found it boring.

On the occasions when we attended my uncle’s Baptist Christian church, I loved it. I always left feeling happy. However, when we visited my paternal grandmother’s house afterward, she and other family members would ask if we had just come from the church “where they clap and sing.” Sadly, they mocked me and my brothers for it. I remember this well—I was around ten years old at the time.

I also recall one particular day when my father took us to the Catholic church while my mother waited for us outside in the car. I didn’t understand why at the time, but when I received Christ as my Lord and Savior, so much became clear.

My Father’s Example

Despite not knowing the Word of God, my dad was an incredible father. He was exemplary—responsible, loving, generous, and protective of our family. He was also humble, compassionate toward the needy, and, above all, he loved God.

Years passed, and at 33 years old, both my beloved wife, Silvia, and I gave our lives to Christ. At that time, we were living in Acapulco, Guerrero, Mexico, where two of our daughters were born—Silvia’s hometown.

By God’s grace, we were able to purchase a condominium there. Our neighbors were Pastors Benjamin and Lulu Fuentes, who shared the gospel with us. Around this time, we took a trip to Mexico City to visit my parents. I was on fire for the Lord, filled with the Holy Spirit. As always, my father welcomed us with open arms, preparing a feast of roasted meat in the backyard or garage, as was our family tradition. There was always plenty of food and beer.

I remember him offering me a beer that day, and when I declined, he was surprised. When I shared the gospel with him, his response broke my heart: "You are no longer my son. They have changed you. What happened to you?"

That moment was deeply painful for me. I was filled with joy, knowing my sins were forgiven and that I had eternal life. But the rejection from my father and the mockery from my brothers hurt. However, my mother and her side of the family were overjoyed by my transformation.

A Father’s Change of Heart

Time passed, and I will never forget my father’s words that marked my life: "If you are going to do this, do it well."He was referring to my walk with Christ. He had seen a poor example of Christianity in other family members who called themselves believers but did not live it out. Their testimony had been a stumbling block for him.

Then, about two years later, something incredible happened. My father asked me to take my brothers to church with me—the Christian church. I was in awe. He had noticed the change in my life, the fruits of God’s grace. And who better to see that transformation than my own father, who knew me so well?

The years continued, and then another miracle occurred. My mother began attending a church near their home in Mexico City. And one day, without anyone inviting him, my father decided to go as well. He later told me, "The pastor speaks very well, but the only thing I don’t like is how loud the music is!"

What a blessing! Our lives speak louder than our words ever could.

A Legacy of Faith

My father gave his life to Christ and is now in the presence of the Lord—he went to be with Him four years ago. Glory to God! I hold onto the promise in Acts 16:31:
"Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved—you and your household."

There are many more events in my life that I want to share with you. In my next blog post, I will tell you how I got to where I am today and how God continues to work in ways that surprise and amaze me.

God is faithful.