Founded in 1909 the Iglesia Evangelica Pentecostal Asamblea de Dios in Buenos Aires has a rich history. It all began with Alicia Wood a Canadian missionary. She arrived in Argentina in 1910 bringing the Pentecostal message. Imagine her journey a testament to faith. She initially settled in Gualeguaychú Entre Ríos. There she not only taught the Bible but also literacy to children.
In 1917 Wood established another church in 25 de Mayo. This became a hub for missionary activities for the Union of Assemblies of God in Argentina. It served as a training ground for ministers. These ministers spread the gospel to neighboring towns. They upheld biblical standards of faith and conduct.
Missionaries from various European countries joined the effort. They were fleeing the 1914-18 war. American missionaries also arrived bolstering the Pentecostal movement. By 1940 a magazine El Heraldo de la Paz was published. It circulated 2500 copies disseminating news among evangelicals.
The Iglesia Evangelica Pentecostal Asamblea de Dios sought official recognition. Ministers needed credentials based on faith training and conduct. On June 8 1947 the Union of Assemblies of God was established in 25 de Mayo. It received legal personality in 1948. By 1949 the Union boasted 20 churches and a Bible institute.
This institute the Rio de la Plata Bible Institute trained ministers. It initially operated in Colegiales Buenos Aires. Later it moved to Lomas de Zamora. The Iglesia Evangelica Pentecostal Asamblea de Dios’s growth is astounding. In 1954 evangelist Tommy Hicks held a massive campaign. It took place at Club Atlanta’s football stadium. President Juan Perón granted permission and police protection.
The event was a phenomenal success. Newspapers estimated 200000 attendees nightly. Many were healed. Hospitals emptied. The Assemblies of God’s impact is far-reaching. In 1954 they had 32 churches. By 1999 that number exceeded 1000. The Iglesia Evangelica Pentecostal Asamblea de Dios continues to thrive a testament to its enduring faith and community spirit. Its global connections are impressive. It belongs to the Confederation Evangelical Pentecostal the Christian Alliance and the World Assemblies of God Fellowship. This demonstrates its strong international ties.
The Iglesia Evangelica Pentecostal Asamblea de Dios’s story is one of resilience growth and global impact. It stands as a beacon of faith in Buenos Aires and beyond. Its enduring legacy speaks volumes about its unwavering commitment to its beliefs. Its history is a testament to the power of faith and community.