A century and a half of faith. That’s what this building whispers. The Iglesia de Dios Jesús El Centro stands before you. Its white facade a beacon against the Buenos Aires sky. This isn’t just a church. It’s a living testament to perseverance and faith.
Founded by Pablo Besson a Swiss national. He arrived in Argentina in 1881. Besson a pastor. He faced religious persecution. Catholic authorities refused to register Protestant births marriages and burials. His vision was simple. A group of believers a pastor deacons and treasurers constituted a church. No need for state approval or sponsorship.
In 1883 the first Baptist church in Argentina opened. Early services were held in an English school. Later a rented hall near the Ministry of Public Works. This location was near Lima Street then known as “the street of sin”. Many young people attended services some perhaps to mock.
The church moved to the French Mutual Aid Society. Then a rented property on Independencia Street. Baptisms took place in the Río de la Plata even the Riachuelo. Sunday school started in 1890. Thursday meetings followed. Eventually chairs were bought and a baptistery built.
The congregation lacked funds for a proper building. Besson travelled seeking donations. He also awaited an inheritance. Finally a building was constructed on Estados Unidos Street. It opened in 1899. The church grew. Members began outreach efforts in nearby tenements.
In 1927 Besson resigned due to age and health. His successor Santiago Canclini found the church lacked a name. The congregation suggested San Pablo. Canclini however proposed Iglesia del Centro. This name stuck.
Canclini expanded activities. He established Sunday school youth groups and Bible study. He and his wife visited tenements bringing children to Sunday school. He also fought for religious freedom.
By 1952 the congregation had 265 members. A US donation allowed land purchase on Avenida Independencia. However construction was delayed. The current building on Estados Unidos Street was constructed in 1982 during an economic crisis.
The church continued to grow. A major outreach campaign overflowed the sanctuary necessitating a tent. In 1996 the Avenida Independencia site was purchased. In 2018 the new sanctuary opened.
The Iglesia de Dios Jesús El Centro’s 140th anniversary was celebrated. Over 1600 people attended. The church continues its work. Offering social and humanitarian assistance. Its legacy is one of faith perseverance and service. The church a second home for thousands. This is more than a building. It’s a testament to enduring faith and community.