Haven’t you noticed the inscription over the entrance? Here at Avenida Rivadavia 4050 stands Iglesia Evangélica Metodista de Almagro. This church is more than just a building. It is a testament to faith and community in the Almagro neighborhood.
The story begins in 1836. The Methodist Church arrived in Argentina. They were sent by the Missionary Society of the Methodist Episcopal Church of the USA. Reverend John Dempster’s initial work focused on English speaking immigrants. These people had brought their evangelical traditions with them.
However, a desire grew. The desire was to share the Gospel with all Argentinians in their native tongue. Reverend William Goodfellow arrived. He trained young members to preach in Spanish. Goodfellow means “good companion”.
May 25 1867 marks a pivotal moment. Pastor Juan F Thomson delivered the first sermon in Spanish. He was an Argentinian of Scottish descent. He had been prepared by Rev. William Goodfellow. The service took place in the Primera Iglesia Metodista. It was an English speaking congregation at Corrientes 718. The church filled with people eager to witness this historic event.
The Spanish speaking group became the Segunda Iglesia Metodista. They later built their own church on Junín Street. Years later the state claimed the building. They needed land for the University of Buenos Aires. In 1933 the congregation moved to Almagro. This marked the beginning of what we know today as Iglesia Evangélica Metodista de Almagro. It is the Central Methodist Church of Buenos Aires.
But the path wasn’t easy. Initial attempts to preach in Spanish met with resistance. Some locals threw stones and insults. Despite this the Methodist community persevered. Their goal was to make the Gospel accessible to everyone.
Today Iglesia Evangélica Metodista de Almagro continues this mission. This church is a welcoming community. It offers various activities for all ages. These include Sunday services and weekday prayer meetings. They have activities for adolescents and young people on Saturdays. The church serves the community through “La Familia de los Lunes”. It provides food clothing and support to those in need.
Moreover the Iglesia Evangélica Metodista de Almagro is home to the Jardín Galopín. It is one of Buenos Aires’ first kindergartens founded in 1935. Also the Instituto Dr Alberto Schweitzer operates here. This inclusive school promotes peace.
As you stand before Iglesia Evangélica Metodista de Almagro consider its history. Think about its commitment to community. Reflect on its dedication to spreading the Gospel. This church embodies faith. It also embodies service and inclusion in the heart of Almagro.