The spicy aroma of enchiladas, empanadas and Asian-inspired tacos filled Main Street in Niles Sunday, as the Niles Main Street Downtown District Authority partnered with Relevant Church for a culturally-diverse culinary experience.

Visitors to downtown were treated to a variety of dishes as mobile restaurants from across Michiana served dishes from all over the world.

“We believe Niles is on an upward trajectory, and we want to show people that there is more than meets the eye in Niles,” said Lewis Boyden, a member of Relevant Church who considers Pastor Muta Mwenya is mentor. “It’s awesome to have the opportunity to participate with the DDA to bring an event to the people of Niles to show them God at work.”

Among the food trucks featured were Jim’s Smokin’ Café, owned and operated by Jim Morris, who also owns the Paris Soda Co. at 220 E. Main St. Morris and his team served “barbecue fusion” street tacos with Asian-inspired brisket, shrimp and pork. Morris parked his truck directly in front of the soda shop and worked rapidly to serve customers at both businesses.

Spicier options were available at San Marco Catering, which served authentic Mexican dishes, and Sammy Arepas, which served arepas (Venezuelan corn pancakes), empanadas (Spanish pastries filled with meat) and Venezuela-style hot dogs.

“Culture is important to any community, and we believe this area has a lot of culture that doesn’t always get exposed,” Mwenya said. “We wanted to add a different flavor to downtown Niles.”

Danae Rossman, a Niles New Tech educator and member of Relevant Church, said the diversity of food served Sunday was representative of the mission of Relevant Church.

“We really make an emphasis of loving across boundaries. We welcome people from all walks of life,” she said. “We preach Jesus boldly and unapologetically.”

Relevant leaders often describe the nondenominational church with its mission, that “nobody is perfect” and “authenticity is the only requirement.” The church frequently hosts service events such as its recent “Serve the City,” and encourages its members to “simply give,” rather than asking for donations.

Relevant, formerly known as Freedom Church, originally operated out of Ring Lardner Middle School before moving to its downtown location at 210 E. Main St. just before Christmas 2016.

Rossman said the event was intended to draw people to downtown Niles, and also to show visitors the downtown church.

“Really, we just wanted to bring people downtown and show them what an awesome city Niles is,” Mwenya said. “We will do anything we can to help people recognize the good work going on down here.”

Relevant services begin at 10 a.m. Sundays.