By GAYLE WEBER

gweber@dailynews.net

Like an oasis in the middle of a desert, Pastor Lory Herrick hopes to be able to reach the Hispanic population in Ellis County with a new ministry starting Sunday.

Herrick has had a Hispanic service in Russell for nearly two years, but because of demand from Hays residents, Herrick is moving the ministry to Church on the Rock Hallelujah Ministries, 601 Vine.

Church on the Rock will continue its services there, while Herrick will conduct services as Hispanic Church on the Rock at 5 p.m. Sundays at the church.

"Our main ministry is geared toward Hispanic families," Herrick said. "It's not only the language, it's the whole culture."

The service will be Protestant-based.

A Hispanic Mass is conducted at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church each week.

Pastor Robert Scheck of Church on the Rock said his church already had quite a few Hispanics attending services, and although he can speak Spanish, he was happy to partner with Herrick -- who is more familiar with Latin-based Spanish.

"We don't want to leave anybody out. That's part of our overall philosophy," Scheck said.

Hispanic Church on the Rock will have its first service Sunday evening.