09/07/2025
Dear First Presbyterian Church Family,
Early this morning, Thursday, September 4, around 4:00 a.m., there was an explosion in Beto’s Tacos truck in the PEACE Center parking lot. Beto was inside the truck and survived, thanks be to God. He is in the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. The taco truck itself is a total loss.
Many of you know Beto’s story with our church: for two years his taco truck operated from our parking lot, becoming a beloved gathering spot and a bridge across cultures in our community. He later opened a storefront, and this June he returned to the church lot to relaunch the truck while continuing to serve Hastings with his incredible food and hospitality. Again and again, Beto’s presence has embodied what we believe in as a church: a ministry of hospitality and neighbors from different backgrounds sharing a table together. Here's a video from when Beto first opened up https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1D5N8vngkK/
A few quick notes:
-Safety: The police and fire department have assured us there is no longer any danger posed. We are cooperating with local authorities and the fire department. Parts of the PEACE Center lot may be temporarily blocked off while cleanup and any investigation proceed.
-Care for Beto: As we learn specific needs from Beto and his family, we will share ways to help (meals, gift cards, financial assistance).
-Gratitude: We are deeply grateful for the swift response of first responders and for neighbors who called 911.
Our church family has long understood that food can be ministry, hospitality that heals and connects. Today, the table looks different, but our calling is the same: to show up with compassion, prayer, and practical support.
I will send updates as we know more. In the meantime, I invite you to pray with me:
God of comfort and healing,
we give you thanks that Beto is alive.
Surround him with your mercy, ease his pain, and speed his recovery.
Strengthen those who care for him: medical staff, family, and friends.
For the loss of his truck and livelihood, provide a path forward:
open doors, generous partners, and the resources he needs to rebuild.
Bless our congregation to be the hands and feet of Jesus:
quick to pray, quick to help, and steadfast in love.
We thank you for first responders and all who served this morning.
Hold us together in hope, through Christ our Lord. Amen.
With gratitude for each of you and with hope in Christ,
Pastor Greg