In 1894 a group of Dutch immigrants began worshipping in the Barracas neighborhood of Buenos Aires. This was the humble beginning of the Iglesia Evangélica Reformada de Buenos Aires. They were far from home. Their families had braved the long ocean voyage from the Netherlands. Many had faced hardship and disappointment upon arrival in Argentina. They sought solace and community in their shared faith.
The Iglesia Evangélica Reformada de Buenos Aires wasn’t officially organized until 1900. By then around 150 souls made up the congregation. Most were working-class families. They yearned for a trained pastor. Their requests were initially ignored by the Gereformeerde Kerk Nederland (GKN) in the Netherlands. The GKN was the mother church. The GKN had refused their initial plea to send a minister. This happened in 1896. They were told to seek help in America.
The situation changed in 1908. The GKN finally sent Reverend Dr. John van Lonkhuijzen. He spent two years in Buenos Aires. His arrival was met with great joy. The congregation had almost disappeared. Many members had lost hope and joined other denominations. Van Lonkhuijzen’s visit revitalized the church. His dedication and pastoral care brought many back.
But the challenges continued. The Iglesia Evangélica Reformada de Buenos Aires faced internal divisions. The lack of consensus over religious practices was a common problem. Many young people left the faith altogether. They assimilated into the largely Catholic Argentine culture. The church’s survival against such obstacles was indeed remarkable. It highlights the enduring strength of faith among the original Dutch immigrants and their descendants.
The arrival of Reverend Antonie C Sonneveldt in 1910 was another turning point. He was a highly significant figure in the growth of Reformed churches in Argentina. He served for fifty years. This included two pastorates in Buenos Aires and one in Chubut. Sonneveldt dedicated his life to nurturing the Reformed faith. His efforts transformed the Iglesia Evangélica Reformada de Buenos Aires. The congregation grew considerably under his leadership.
The Iglesia Evangélica Reformada de Buenos Aires is a testament to the resilience of the Dutch community in Argentina. It is also a symbol of the enduring power of faith in the face of adversity. The church stands as a living link to the past. It also serves as a vibrant center of spiritual life. The stories of those early pioneers continue to inspire and strengthen the faith of those who worship here today.