Into The Heart of Argentina

Despite many troubles over the last century, most Argentines remained resilient and hopeful about the future. They survived the worldwide depression of the ‘30s, the rise of military dictator Juan Peron (who hasn’t heard of his popular wife Evita?) and the Dirty War of the ‘70s and ‘80s when tens of thousands simply “disappeared.” But the recent economic and political upheaval that saw a revolving door of presidents in and out of the ‘Pink House’ (five in two weeks!) finally shook their confidence. And Argentina does have plenty to cry about these days, from an economy that nosedived in 2001 to continuing political unrest and a fragile government. The average Argentine struggles and wonders if there’s any hope for the future.

In the past the people also looked to the Catholic Church for hope, especially in times of trouble. But many Argentines today are Catholic in name only, rarely if ever attending church at all. Young people especially are open to new ideas. Unfortunately many are turning to eastern and New Age religions instead of discovering the only true hope that is found in Christ.

At various times in the past century, revival has helped spread the Good News and it is estimated that evangelical Christians make up about 7% of the population. Most missionary activity is centered in Buenos Aires. Our targeted area is in the center of the country, not far from the second largest city, Cordoba. The Punilla Valley stretches 54 miles and Carlos Paz is the first city in the valley (also the largest) with a population of approximately 60,000 and growing and in desperate need of solid Bible-teaching churches.

Biblical Ministry Worldwide Missionaries Tito and Adriana Ramirez moved to Carlos Paz three years ago. Currently there is a group meeting regularly there on Sundays—a church in its embryonic stage. The Ramirez’ are also having a Bible study in the nearby town of Malagueno. We will be joining the Ramirez’ in the work in Carlos Paz, with the long-term vision of planting churches throughout the Punilla Valley. There are more than a dozen cities in the valley with populations over 10,000, and the strategy will be to reach these cities one by one.

So what will we be doing to achieve this objective? First we must become a part of the community and get to know the people. Evangelization and discipleship will be the natural outgrowth of those relationships, followed by training leaders who will, in turn, disciple those whom they are leading to the Lord. When we feel the leaders are prepared, we will move on to the next city. Obviously that’s the short version!

On a day-to-day basis, we will be interacting with those God brings into our lives. We’ll be opening our home for meals and get-togethers, becoming involved in activities that allow us to meet people, having Bible studies with families or small groups, visiting families in their homes, discipling new believers, mentoring potential leaders and involving them in the ministry; in effect, using every means and opportunity to serve the people of Argentina and bring them to a saving knowledge of Christ. And one by one, developing autonomous, Bible believing churches throughout the Punilla Valley.