When Ivan Paloalto ‘15 creates the powerpoint slides for his weekend church services, he not only has to type all of the song lyrics, but also  translates them into Spanish.

“I like sing [the songs] in my head and I hear the beat and the Spanish lyrics” Paloalto said. “The syllables don’t always line up right and I have to think of different words I can use to make it work the best. Sometimes I’ll look at other translations to get the best one.” Although his spanish reading and writing abilities are slightly behind his speaking, they allow Ivan to practice and retain his translation skills . Paloalto says that even though many of the Spanish speakers who attend speak a decent amount of English, having the words to sing in their own language makes it more personal.

Ivan’s parents and oldest brother were born in Mexico. Growing up in Washington, Paloalto learned Spanish in the household, keeping his family’s heritage alive. Several months ago, his dad was hired as a pastor at Bethany Christian Assembly in Everett. On an everyday basis, Mr. Paloalto reaches out to the local hispanic community by connecting with them in their own language and being able to relate to them culturally. Ivan Paloalto has been playing drums and coordinating the media for the services for eight years. He attends the English service at 10:30, and now he stays for the Spanish service given by his dad at one o’clock.

“I don’t think I would have the relationship that I have with my dad if he wasn’t a pastor. I would probably be more rebellious” Paloalto said.

Even after playing drums and facilitating with media at church since he was 10 years old, Ivan still loves to serve and grow in his walk with God and his relationship with his family.

“[My dad] has taught me how to treat other people with love and respect.”