We honor those who have sown with faith and vision. This is their legacy
Legacy
In February of 1982
a small Hispanic congregation gathered for the first time in the humble building once occupied by the Emmanuel Gospel Center. It was there that Pastor Juan Vergara, together with a young visionary named Roberto Miranda, planted the seeds of what would become a spiritual home for countless families. They called it Central Baptist Church, born from a deep desire to meet the growing spiritual and social needs of the Latino community in Boston.
What began modestly grew into a movement of hope and outreach, known today as Congregation Lion of Judah.
At the center of this story is Dr. Roberto S. Miranda: Scholar, pastor, and visionary.
Born in the Dominican Republic and raised in the United States, Dr. Miranda excelled academically at Phillips Academy, Princeton University, and Harvard University. Though his early path pointed toward a distinguished academic career, God’s calling redirected his life, leading him into pastoral ministry.
In 1985
he assumed leadership of a small congregation and devoted himself to building not just a church, but a movement of spiritual renewal and social transformation.
Under his leadership, Lion of Judah became a vibrant, bilingual, and multicultural community that brings together people from more than thirty nations. Its worship and service reflect the beauty of God's Kingdom, where every culture and language has a place at the table.
Pastor Miranda believed that faith should extend beyond the walls of the church, bringing healing, justice, and restoration to the city. From that conviction, ministries emerged to support immigrants, youth, families, and those in need.
A decisive moment
came
when Pastor Miranda received a vision: a lion rising over the Boston skyline, embodying Christ’s authority and compassion extending across the city.
The congregation adopted the name Lion of Judah and moved into the heart of Boston, positioning itself as a beacon of light and hope.
Inspired by this revelation
The ministry continued to flourish, and acquired new facilities, expanded its outreach, and has become a model of bilingual and multicultural worship and service.
A Farewell That Touched Generations
MAY 2022
When Pastor Miranda went to be with the Lord in May 2022, the city and countless lives grieved the passing of a faithful servant whose life continues to bear fruit across generations.
Up to this day
We honor his legacy by faithfully carrying forward the vision he entrusted to us:
To lift high the banner of the Lion of Judah
To be a church where all nations worship together in unity
To raise up and equip new generations of leaders
To serve our city and the world with the love, hope, and truth of Jesus Christ
