Iglesia Evangélica Apostólica del Nombre de Jesús – San Roque

Whispers of faith echo through the streets surrounding the Iglesia Evangélica Apostólica del Nombre de Jesús – San Roque. This unassuming church holds a powerful story. It speaks of resilience, growth, and a fervent belief in the power of community. Let’s step into its history. The Iglesia Evangélica Apostólica del Nombre de Jesús – San Roque, often called IEANJESUS, began not in Quito, but amidst the turbulent times of Colombia in the 1950s. Conflict forced many to seek refuge in Ecuador, carrying with them not just their belongings, but also their faith. Among these refugees were believers from the United Pentecostal Church of Colombia. They planted the seeds of the Gospel of the Name of Jesus in Ecuadorian soil. The Iglesia Evangélica Apostólica del Nombre de Jesús – San Roque traces its origins back to humble beginnings in 1958. It started as a foreign missionary work near Santo Domingo de los Tsáchilas. Crispiniano Arredondo, a craftsman, became the first messenger of this faith in Ecuador. He preached in his free time, sharing his beliefs with anyone who would listen. In 1957, another Colombian, Joaquín Jaramillo, also preached the same doctrine in another part of Santo Domingo. These two men eventually joined forces, their combined efforts amplifying their message. Word of their burgeoning congregation reached William Drost, a Canadian missionary in Colombia. In 1958, he traveled to Santo Domingo with Pastor Noel Ospina and performed the first baptism in the Suma River. The following year, Drost returned and baptized 30 more believers. This marked a turning point. Pastor Averner Larsen, Superintendent of the United Pentecostal Church of Colombia, recognized the growing movement. He dispatched Miguel Mariano Peña and his wife, Beatriz, to Quito in October 1959 to formally administer this new branch of the church. The Iglesia Evangélica Apostólica del Nombre de Jesús – San Roque, now autonomous, has blossomed into the largest non-Catholic religious organization in Ecuador. With over 1,000 congregations and a membership exceeding 350,000, it has spread its message not just throughout Ecuador, but to 18 other countries. The church’s mission extends beyond spiritual guidance. It actively engages in social programs, education, healthcare, and philanthropic efforts. It strives to uplift vulnerable communities, contributing to a better society. The Iglesia Evangélica Apostólica del Nombre de Jesús – San Roque’s journey reflects the power of faith, resilience, and a commitment to community. It stands as a testament to the transformative impact that can be achieved when faith and action intertwine.