Pastor Douglas A. Lopez prays with his sons, Douglas (left) and Nathan (right), at Iglesia Bautista Nueva Vida, where he has led the congregation since October 2008. A native of El Salvador, Lopez came to the United States in 1988, and has been living in Bowling Green for the last 16 months.

Lopez and his wife Yanira, have three sons, Douglas, Nathan and Ariel. Lopez and his wife share a passion for evangelism and a heart for prayer. In addition to Sunday and Wednesday worship services, held in Spanish, there are also prayer meetings on Tuesday and Thursday evenings. Lopez also leads the music with the help of Yanira, Douglas and Nathan.

Lopez said his family supports him greatly.

“His children wanted him to be a pastor,” Yanira said.

They understand his ministry occupies much of his time, leaving less for them. Lopez said he feels blessed every time he gets the opportunity to lead someone to Christ, and his family shares this joy.