Officially founded in April 1978, Igreja Batista Pentecostal Mundial has a story. Yet its roots stretch back even further. The church’s origin is quite interesting.
In 1971, Gomercino Vianna dos Santos served as a deacon. He was at the Igreja Batista Família de Jesus. This congregation met on Rua Daniel dos Santos. It was in the Jardim Monteiro neighborhood. The pastor, José Vicente Rego, was a military officer. He gave Deacon Gomercino autonomy to lead the work. Thus, the Igreja Batista Pentecostal Nacional was born. Legal registration was difficult. Gomercino struggled to establish the church. He also had to support his large family.
Around 1973, Eugenia Maria invited Gomercino Vianna dos Santos to help them. This group came from the Igreja Tessalônica. It was headquartered in Campo Grande. They needed help because of a dispute. The pastor of Igreja Tessalônica demanded possession of their building. The church had to leave. Igreja Tessalônica moved to Senador Camará. This was too far for members from Campo Grande. The legal battle caused distrust. Many members stopped attending.
Eugenia Maria asked Gomercino to start a meeting in her house. The group grew quickly. They began meeting under a mango tree. It stood in front of her house on Rua Biquinha. In less than three months, Ribamar and others built a small building. It was on Eugenia’s land at the same address. God blessed the group’s efforts. It grew daily. This happened in two locations. One was Jardim Monteiro. The main helpers were Presbítero Geraldo Costa Simão and family. Also, irmã Izalina Rosa and family helped.
Despite struggles, idas e vindas, encontros e desencontros, and persecutions, Gomercino persevered. He followed God’s vision. On April 12, 1978, the church gathered. It was at Rua Biquinha 93. They organized and legally established the church. The Igreja Batista Pentecostal Mundial presented its statute. They introduced the new directors. They set administrative principles. Pastor Gomercino was named president. He ensured its immediate registration. Thus, the IBPN was officially born.
Igreja Batista Pentecostal Mundial stands as a testament. It shows faith and perseverance can overcome challenges. From humble beginnings under a mango tree. To its official establishment in 1978. The church’s history reflects dedication to God’s vision. It also represents the strength of community support. This is a place where faith, family, and perseverance meet. It is a place where everyone is welcome. It is a place where everyone can find their way.