“Buenos Aires never sleeps.” That’s the city’s motto and it rings true for the Comunidad de Cristianos here. The Iglesia Christian Evangelica, deeply rooted in this vibrant city, offers a unique perspective on faith and community.
Founded in 1960 in the residential neighborhood of Olivos, it began with European roots. The Iglesia Christian Evangelica started just a block from its current location. Built with bricks crafted from the very mud of Buenos Aires it stands as a testament to the city itself.
Now predominantly Argentine, this Iglesia Christian Evangelica has expanded with filial branches seeking independence throughout the country. Buenos Aires, a major South American city is a melting pot. Its port and airport welcome migrants from across the Americas, Europe and Asia. This influx brings diverse religious and cultural influences. Catholicism shares the stage with Judaism, Lutherans, Islam and more recently, North American evangelical groups.
The Comunidad de Cristianos and Iglesia Christian Evangelica thrives in Buenos Aires. The city possesses a vibrant creative culture. Its hard-won freedom fuels the growth of civil society. This growth is a direct result of lessons learned from economic crises, the military dictatorship, and a subsequent period of reflection.
The Iglesia Christian Evangelica offers something special. It provides a space to explore life’s big questions. Worship lies at the heart of this community giving existential meaning to their shared lives. Ideals that influence the wider world emanate from the altar. These ideals inform discussions, sacramental support and pastoral guidance.
Many initiatives have sprung from this Comunidad. La Choza is a 130-hectare farm located 60 km away. It practices agricultural and biodynamic methods that seek to heal the land. It provides healthy food and welcomes young practitioners from around the globe.
Other initiatives focus on sharing cultural wealth with marginalized communities. The Iglesia Christian Evangelica works with young people and children. They organize camps, religious classes and confirmation preparation. A youth group continues this engagement.
The Iglesia Christian Evangelica boasts a professional-quality puppet theater run by young people and adults. They prepare captivating performances. A table theater entertains the younger children. These performances are highly anticipated events. Constant engagement with the Gospels defines the Buenos Aires community. Currently, six groups study them regularly, either weekly or monthly.
A defining characteristic of the Iglesia Christian Evangelica is its blend of worship art and study. Artists contribute their talents through music and painting including explorations of the altar’s colors. They also engage in the art of storytelling and theatrical productions. All of this is closely linked to the spirit emanating from the altar in continuous collaboration with the priests.
Currently, four active priests two men and two women serve the community. They support around 170 members and numerous friends and interested individuals. Another branch in the province of Neuquén has gained independence with its own priest and permanent altar. They are currently planning the construction of their own church. From there, they visit Mendoza in the west-central region and Lago Puelo in southern Argentina. Córdoba province has another branch that receives regular visits from a priest from Buenos Aires. La Choza also features an altar in this space for community gatherings camps and a future village for seniors.
Another group is forming in Ingeniero Maschwitz about 40 km from the Comunidad. A priest visits regularly and since 2012, they have been celebrating a regular Sunday service for children.
Overall, the Iglesia Christian Evangelica’s Comunidad remains relatively young. The pioneers who brought it to life guide them from the spiritual realm. Baptisms and confirmations are celebrated demonstrating the community’s ongoing quest for meaning. The Iglesia Christian Evangelica in Buenos Aires continues to evolve. It offers a welcoming space for spiritual exploration artistic expression and community engagement.