We are a month into one of the most significant years in our nation's history. In 2026, we celebrate an incredible milestone: 250 years of freedom, democracy, and unity in diversity. It is this unique combination of characteristics that has made the United States the greatest nation in the world.
This country has a long, proud history of welcoming people who are committed to the common good and the flourishing of America, regardless of nationality or station in life. This is a rare and beautiful thing, and it has opened up opportunities for millions of people who otherwise may have been unable to build the life they want.
The hard work, grit, and determination the American dream requires have been exemplified by the Latino community since America’s inception. Over the past 250 years, Latinos have boldly contributed to the well-being and progress of the United States through significant work in science, education, politics, sports, food, and much more.
Each of these industries has benefited from the passion and heart of the Latino community, and through these industries, Latinos have positively impacted countless Americans.
As Latinos have become one of the most significant demographics in the United States, they have continued to make a positive difference. Right now, a spiritual revival is sweeping through these communities, reclaiming and anointing ground that for too long has been given over to the culture. Latinos are standing up for human dignity, a robust understanding of life, truth that does not back down, and the Judeo-Christian values that undergird everything we hold dear.
And they’re bringing all of this to the world through another revolutionary project: ¡VIVA!, which means “live” in Spanish.
Our world — and America, particularly — is crying out for truth and stability. The Scriptures are the only place that can truly be found. That’s why the Latino community is bringing the Bible to the world in a new, fresh way. One that invites everyone in, rather than pushing them to the fringes. It doesn’t matter where you come from or where you feel like you belong. It’s an invitation for everyone.
Inspired by The Bible Experience and designed to reintroduce people to the book from which our shared Judeo-Christian values derive, this project is poised to transform not just a Latino community but America as a whole.
The original Bible experience was launched in 2007, at the precipice of one of the most significant economic hardships the country has ever faced. ¡VIVA! comes at a similar moment.
As a nation, we are already in the midst of one of the most divisive, trying times in our 250-year history. All you need to do is read the news to get a sense of how evil and injustice are playing out on the national and international stage. Every day, we are faced with wars, rampant food insecurity, antisemitism and racial tensions, religious persecution, and violence.
Amid this reality, people are looking for something. Something that can help make sense of what often feels like a senseless world. That’s what the ¡VIVA! project is designed to do. Bringing together world-class actors and visionary voices, it will present the Bible in a way that speaks to wherever we find ourselves right now.
That is good news. And it is news that can only be found in the Good News itself. It’s time to stop looking for answers in the wrong places. It’s time to live.
Rev. Samuel Rodriguez is the lead pastor of New Season, one of America's most influential megachurches, and president of the National Hispanic Christian Leadership Conference (NHCLC), which represents millions of Christians worldwide.
Rodriguez has advised three U.S. Presidents and is the first Latino to participate in multiple presidential inauguration ceremonies. He is also a best-selling author of 12 books and serves as producer of 7 faith-based films including Breakthrough, Flamin Hot, and Dream King.
Rev. Rodriguez has been recognized by CNN, Fox News, The New York Times, Time Magazine, Univision, Telemundo, and NBC as America’s most influential Hispanic Christian leader. Above all, he is dedicated to magnifying the name of Jesus through every aspect of his ministry and life, giving God all the glory for his influence and impact.
