During April 2026, the missionary work in Colombia showed steady growth through a strategy focused on follow-up, planning, and leadership development. Through both in-person and virtual evangelism, approximately 593 people were reached, 92 new contacts were established, and 11 potential students were identified to integrate into the church. In addition, 564 Bible studies were conducted, and university ministries were strengthened, highlighted by the launch of a new group in Barranquilla and growth in Cali. At the same time, the mission continues focusing on expansion into 32 cities through the training of new leaders and presbyteries, although the mission is currently facing banking difficulties that are affecting the distribution of funds and require prayer support.

The monthly report from the mission in Brazil highlighted strong and strategic growth through the integration of digital and in-person evangelism, especially within universities. During April, 1,665 people were reached, 147 new contacts were established, and 192 Bible studies were conducted with 136 new students, reflecting not only greater outreach but also deeper discipleship. Furthermore, the territorial expansion strategy through a “radius of action” approach made it possible to identify new cities and five strategic potentials for future missionary centers, strengthening a sustainable vision focused on raising a new generation of young people committed to the Gospel.

The mission in Argentina strengthened its evangelistic strategy with the goal of establishing 12 Missionary Centers, carrying out in-person evangelism in parks throughout Buenos Aires and relocating the church closer to universities in order to reach more students. In addition, a digital campaign through TikTok and live broadcasts was launched, reaching 395 people virtually and 20 in person. The report also highlighted growth in Bible students and new attendees at church services, while the missionary team continues standing firm in the Word of God and praying for a new season of restoration and spiritual growth in the country.

The mission in Uruguay advanced in strengthening its strategy focused on the university city of Salto and in preparing a future main headquarters in Montevideo. Leaders Franco Correa, Nathaly Morales, and Giuliana Termesana continued developing in-person evangelism, Bible studies, and leadership training, with a special focus on raising Giuliana as a future missionary leader. In terms of growth, 1,113 people were invited to Bible studies, 21 contacts were established, and 14 Bible studies were conducted. In addition, one pre-potential student was reached who is currently studying Romans 1-8 and shows a desire to serve God.

During April 2026, the missionary work in Chile remained focused on strengthening and expanding the pioneering work, maintaining the Emanuel Presbyterian Church as the only established church in the country while projecting new openings in Valparaíso and Viña del Mar. The report highlighted progress in university and digital evangelism, the consolidation of Claudia Honorato’s new commitment, the launch of youth meetings with teenagers, and the development of activities such as the Easter Retreat and prayer and fasting gatherings leading toward Pentecost, with the goal of reaching 40 new Bible students. Despite certain challenges and financial limitations, the missionary team continued working with hope for growth and strengthening of the work in Chile.

The mission in Ecuador continued consolidating the established church in Quito under the leadership of Eslef Cheme Castro, while pioneering work remains active in Esmeraldas, Riobamba, and Cuenca, with future expansion projected for Guayaquil, Puyo, and Manta. The country currently has one active church and five MCs, with the work standing in a healthy condition as members focus on developing businesses to achieve self-sustainability. During the month, 614 Bible studies were conducted, 533 in-person evangelistic activities were carried out, and 1,940 online evangelism efforts were completed, in addition to registering 19 new students and 9 potential students.

The monthly report from the mission in Panama highlighted the strengthening of its in-person evangelism strategy on university campuses, focusing on personal outreach, prayer, and mentoring young people. Through direct conversations, surveys, and QR codes placed throughout the university, the team identified new students interested in studying the Bible and beginning discipleship processes. The team stood out for its commitment not only to evangelize but also to provide follow-up and build genuine relationships, moving forward with determination and dependence on the grace of God.

In April 2026, the mission in Venezuela continued advancing strategically through in-person and digital evangelism, discipleship, and territorial expansion, especially in Caracas, Valencia, Guayana, and Barquisimeto. The report highlighted the strengthening of university ministry through Young Disciples and Veritas, which consolidated an active group of 24 young people in training, as well as the launch of an OTM pioneering group with teenagers. More than 1,400 people were reached through evangelism, reflecting growth focused not only on outreach but also on spiritual consolidation. In addition, the mission advanced in self-sustainability plans and infrastructure improvements in Puerto Ordaz, while continuing to prioritize leadership development and expansion into new cities.

The missionary work in Bolivia continues advancing with a special focus on discipleship and university ministry in Cochabamba, where personal mentoring and student follow-up have been strengthened, generating greater commitment and spiritual growth. Through in-person and virtual evangelism, as well as natural relationships within universities, more young people interested in Bible studies have been reached. Furthermore, leadership training continues to be promoted through practical instruction, while new potential leaders are being identified and developed to strengthen the mission.

The mission in Peru continued developing in-person evangelism in different areas of Lima, especially in locations frequently visited by young people, reaching approximately 300 people in person and nearly 5,000 through digital platforms. Although maintaining a consistent missionary team has been a challenge, the work continues advancing with those who remain steadfast and with new individuals being trained to serve in the mission. In addition, the Easter Retreat was held to strengthen faith and fellowship, and Joel traveled to Dover to participate in the Nehemiah Project, contributing to the strengthening of the missionary work.

The monthly report from each country reflected a region that continues to grow amid different challenges, yet remains sustained by prayer, unity, and the commitment of every missionary team. OA South America reaffirmed the importance of continuing to intercede for each nation, for the raising up of new leaders, and for the expansion of the Gospel throughout the continent. Likewise, it was emphasized that the strategies implemented during April will continue to be developed and strengthened throughout May, keeping evangelistic work, discipleship, and leadership training active up to the present time. With faith and perseverance, the region continues moving forward toward greater growth and the establishment of new works that will impact future generations for Christ.

His arrival comes at a key moment for the office, which continues expanding its reach beyond Colombia, positioning itself as a space that seeks to develop sustainable models for different countries in the region. In this context, Jose has already begun actively participating in the team’s processes, being assigned to business model projects and contributing with a mindset focused on learning and serving.

This step reflects the growth of the team and the strengthening of a regional vision in which people from different countries come together to support the development of initiatives that generate resources and sustain the advancement of the mission. The long-term projection is for each country to eventually have its own sustainability models, adapted to its context and needs.

Regarding this, Jose Machacuay stated:

“Being in Colombia is a great blessing for my life, as it is a country where God has worked deeply in me. My expectation during this time is to learn about the businesses being developed here, seeing them as an opportunity to strengthen missions and make them sustainable. I long for this business team to become a support model for other countries, allowing more workers to advance in missionary work without economic limitations and for everything to become a tool to expand the Kingdom of God.”

His participation also represents a challenge for the team, which continues developing projects with an increasingly broader vision, responding to the needs of the mission in different contexts. In the coming months, he will be focused on learning, executing, and contributing to the ongoing initiatives, further strengthening the work that is already being carried out.

José’s arrival marks another step forward in building a team with an international vision, committed to developing models that will propel missionary work throughout South America.

This process is entrusted to the Lord, asking Him to grant wisdom in every step and to continue strengthening the Business Office team for the advancement of the mission in South America.

Written by Korina Fayad

Pastor Moses Gonzalez participated in the meeting, providing strategic direction from a missional perspective with a regional vision for development. Likewise, the main GNIT leaders from both South America and Central America were present, demonstrating coordinated work and a shared commitment to the sustained growth of the mission.

The Web Platform under development includes several key areas:

1. In the area of membership, it will allow the management of lists, personal information, health aspects, and the city in which each member serves.
2. In terms of mission, it will facilitate the tracking of open cities, the number of churches, as well as reports on evangelism and Bible studies.
3. In the area of education, it will include the entire training process experienced by each trainee, providing more structured support.
4. Finally, regarding finances, it will allow the generation and organization of financial reports that contribute to more transparent and efficient administration.

This project generates great expectations, as its goal is to develop a system capable of managing up to 1,000 members, laying solid foundations for the future growth of the work in Latin America.

In conclusion, this joint initiative between OA South America and GNIT Latin America represents a strategic step toward consolidating a more organized, efficient, and aligned mission throughout the region.

The implementation of this Web Platform will make it possible to centralize key information, facilitating decision-making and the monitoring of ministerial growth.

The impact on the mission in Latin America will be significant, as each country will be able to access reliable and up-to-date data, strengthening planning, accountability, and expansion into new cities. Looking ahead to the 2027 general assembly, this tool is positioned as a fundamental resource for presenting clear and measurable results, bringing vision, order, and unity to the advancement of the gospel throughout the region.

In Colombia, progress is developing in diverse ways depending on the city. In Cali, there are 94 local students and 207 in total, along with in-person evangelism in places such as Boulevard del Río and Mall Plaza, and active training processes, including the start of training sessions and the development of cell groups. In Villavicencio, there are 6 Bible studies, 16 new contacts, and 9 active local students, in addition to more than 50 people reached virtually and 24 in person, with the opening of groups at the University of the Llanos and plans to expand into new areas such as Restrepo. In Medellín, although no in-person activities were carried out, the process was sustained through virtual support and ongoing discipleship. Overall, Colombia reflects more than 200 students in training and multiple active groups.

Ecuador shows solid progress with 103 Bible studies, 88 current students, 4 new students, and 17 contacts. The work included in-person evangelism at the National University of Chimborazo, reaching dozens of young people and generating new contacts. In addition, discipleship spaces and cell group meetings were developed, along with consistent virtual services. Total outreach exceeds 600 people.

Brazil maintains stability with 53 contacts, 44 Bible studies, 136 active students, and 7 new students. Joint days of consecration and evangelism stand out, as well as activities in public spaces such as universities, metro stations, and parks. Leadership was also strengthened through guidance meetings and prayer.

Peru reports 14 Bible studies and outreach reaching close to 500 people through digital platforms such as TikTok. Creative evangelism strategies were implemented, combining in-person and virtual activities, maintaining an active base for future growth.

Venezuela shows structured development with 82 Bible studies, 38 new contacts, and a team of 19 teachers (5 active). The work included evangelism at the Central University of Venezuela and Simón Bolívar University, as well as virtual expansion into new cities. Cell groups, chaplaincy processes, and university groups were strengthened, along with plans for in-person expansion into new regions.

Chile reports outreach to 144 people, 9 contacts, and 4 active students. Activities were carried out at the Pontifical Catholic University of Chile and in the Parque Bustamante area, along with youth meetings focused on spiritual edification. Digital evangelism was also strengthened through social media training.

Paraguay continues advancing through digital strategies, consolidating at least 3 individuals as potential prospects under close follow-up, and one potential student preparing to travel for training at the OC in Colombia. A minimum of one hour per day is being dedicated to virtual evangelism in Paraguay.

Argentina reports 5 Bible studies and maintains evangelistic activity in places such as Plaza Congreso and Plaza Rodríguez Peña, along with digital strategies. Initial efforts have begun to build partnerships with the University of Buenos Aires, projecting expansion into the academic field.

Bolivia presents 6 Bible studies, 5 current students, 5 new students, and 1 in process. Activities were carried out in plazas and universities, creating spaces for connection, listening, and prayer, allowing new individuals to begin Bible studies.

Uruguay reports virtual outreach to 470 people through online evangelism, along with the development of strategic digital content. One individual has been identified in the early stages of training with potential integration into the mission, while the country prepares for future in-person initiatives.

Overall, the South America Mission Department reports more than 250 active students, over 250 Bible studies in progress, and outreach to thousands of people, demonstrating a work that continues to grow steadily across the region.

Written by Isaac Aranda

One of the central emphases of this instruction is the responsibility of leadership to guard the doctrinal purity of the church, confronting every influence that may distort the gospel. This task is neither optional nor secondary, but essential for preserving the testimony of Christ amid diverse and challenging cultural contexts.

The Ruling Elder Within the Biblical Order

Within the Presbyterian structure, the ruling elder is understood as an institution established by Christ Himself for the governance and edification of His Church. This role transcends any merely administrative function; it is a deeply spiritual calling that requires discernment, maturity, and commitment to the truth.

Church government is exercised collegially in the session, where elders, together with ministers of the Word, seek God’s direction under the supreme authority of Christ. This model ensures balance, accountability, and faithfulness in decision-making.

Comprehensive Functions of the Elder

The ministry of the elder unfolds across multiple dimensions that reflect the fullness of pastoral care:

• Spiritual governance: Active participation in the doctrinal and disciplinary direction of the church.
• Pastoral care: Close accompaniment of members through exhortation, prayer, and ongoing oversight.
• Ecclesiastical discipline: The biblical application of correction with the purpose of restoring the believer, preserving the purity of the church, and honoring God.

Practical Dimension: Ministry in Action

The exercise of eldership is not limited to formal meetings. On the contrary, it involves continuous oversight of congregational life. The elder is called to know the spiritual condition of the members, maintain consistent pastoral contact, identify needs, and address critical situations with sensitivity and wisdom.

Likewise, the elder plays a key role in fostering active participation within the church and advancing the mission. This includes motivating the congregation toward evangelism and supporting the development of new leaders who will ensure the continuity and expansion of the work.

Counsel and Discipline: Extensions of Shepherding

In daily ministry, the elder applies the Word of God to the concrete realities of believers through biblical counseling. The goal is to guide toward genuine repentance, strengthen faith, and promote a life of obedience.

Regarding ecclesiastical discipline, it is exercised under clearly established biblical principles:

• Restore the sinner
• Preserve the purity of the church
• Honor the name of Christ

This process must be carried out in an orderly and just manner, always oriented toward restoration, avoiding both negligence and undue harshness.

Responsibility and Evaluation of the Elder

The elder not only exercises authority but is also subject to constant evaluation in spiritual life, doctrinal faithfulness, and ministerial performance. His ultimate responsibility is before Christ, to whom he will give account for the care of the flock.

A Strategic Guideline for the Church in South America

The teaching presented, being shared as a directive for the South American region, underscores an unavoidable truth: the mission of the church requires biblically established leadership. It is not enough to start works; it is essential to consolidate them through the training and establishment of elders who meet the standards of Scripture.

A healthy eldership ensures:

• Order in the church
• Effective care of the flock
• Doctrinal faithfulness
• Sustainable missional projection

In this way, a church that seeks to impact cities and nations must prioritize the establishment of upright leaders, committed to God, His Word, and the expansion of the gospel.

For where there are faithful elders, the church not only grows, but remains steadfast and multiplies for the glory of Christ throughout South America.

Layara Celestino assumes this new role with humility and commitment, expressing words that reflect both her sense of responsibility and her faith:

“For me, it is an honor. Not only an opportunity to serve and help build the Kingdom of God, but also the privilege of interacting with my brothers and sisters from other countries.
I do not feel worthy and I know I will face challenges ahead, but I trust that this is where God wants me to be. I hope to learn and grow in this new stage within the community.”

Her appointment took place within the framework of a recent strategic meeting held at Olivet Center Brazil, where key regional leaders gathered to define the direction of the mission in South America. Among the participants were Moses Gonzalez, Secretary General; Isaac Aranda, leader of the South America Mission Office; Thiago Silva, representative of Brazil; and Layara Celestino herself.

The central purpose of the meeting was to establish Brazil and Colombia as fundamental pillars for missionary advancement in the region. During the meeting, clear and practical guidelines were presented, aimed at sustainable growth, emphasizing the need for consistent, responsible, and measurable follow-up.

Additionally, an in-depth analysis of the current situation was conducted, identifying both structural challenges and areas requiring strengthening. This exercise provided a realistic overview of existing limitations, along with concrete actions to overcome them. In this context, the importance of leadership development, regional cooperation, and the balanced expansion of missionary initiatives was highlighted.

A key point of the meeting was the establishment of a continuous follow-up cycle, which will include future strategic meetings to evaluate progress, adjust plans, and ensure sustainable results over time. This approach reinforces the role of the new position assumed by Layara Celestino, who will directly contribute to this process of monitoring and consolidation.

The meeting concluded with a strong call to constant intercession, reminding participants that missionary growth does not depend solely on organizational strategies, but on a daily dependence on God.

In this context, the active participation and unity between Brazil and Colombia are shaping up to be a determining factor in the coming years. This alliance not only strengthens the regional structure but also promotes a shared vision that will enable more solid and coordinated progress. Without a doubt, this collaboration represents significant progress and a promising foundation for the future of the mission in South America.

Written by Isaac Aranda

First, the pastor introduced a new stage of strategic collaboration between Colombia and Brazil, highlighting that both countries-considered pillars in the region-will work together to promote the expansion and strengthening of the mission in South America. This partnership seeks not only to increase the reach of evangelism but also to consolidate processes, share experiences, and establish a model of work that can serve as a reference for other countries. It was emphasized that unity among nations will allow for greater strength and effectiveness in fulfilling the continental missionary vision.

Second, emphasis was placed on the importance of revisiting the goals established since the previous assembly. Pastor Isaac called on each leader to responsibly review the level of fulfillment of these objectives, honestly evaluating the progress made and the areas that require adjustment. Likewise, each country was encouraged to develop clear, structured, and realistic action plans that will not only help achieve the established goals but also sustain growth over time. This moment was key in raising awareness about the need for planning, follow-up, and ongoing commitment.

As a third point, the pastor addressed the proper focus of the Mission Department, reminding everyone that the primary purpose of all efforts is the salvation of souls. In this regard, he explained that the role of the mission department is oriented toward tracking reports, measuring results, and pursuing growth in numbers, while the education area is primarily responsible for ensuring quality in the spiritual formation of members. This distinction helped clarify roles and strengthen the understanding of the church’s comprehensive work.

Additionally, the pastor called for responsibility in fulfilling reports and, at the same time, for wisdom in delegating responsibilities. He acknowledged that, in many cases, duties can be numerous, but emphasized that this should not become an excuse to neglect commitments. In this context, he recalled the biblical principle that teamwork is essential: “Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their labor” (Ecclesiastes 4:9), highlighting that collaboration and mutual support help sustain and improve performance in the work.

Finally, Pastor Isaac centered his message on the correct motivation behind everything done in the mission. He reminded everyone that beyond reports, spreadsheets, statistics, and goals, the true reason for every effort is Jesus Christ. He stressed that every task, no matter how small, should be done with a sincere heart focused on pleasing God, not people. In this sense, he quoted the biblical teaching: “And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men” (Colossians 3:23), encouraging leaders to maintain the right attitude in their service.

The meeting concluded with a call to strengthen unity, maintain discipline in the work, and keep sight of the eternal purpose of the mission. The leaders reaffirmed their commitment to continue working diligently, understanding that every effort contributes to the growth of the Kingdom of God throughout the region.

Written by Isaac Aranda

At the beginning of the meeting, the pastor shared a reflection based on Genesis 7:2 and Matthew 13, focusing on the importance of bringing the message of the gospel to all kinds of people. From these passages, he emphasized that the believer’s task is to sow without making distinctions, understanding that it is God who ultimately carries out the separation according to His will. This message encouraged the leaders to maintain a broad vision, without limiting the reach of evangelism by human criteria.

Afterward, the meeting continued with a detailed review of the evangelism reports. Each one was analyzed individually, allowing for an evaluation of the fulfillment of missionary work in each country. This exercise made it possible to identify progress, maintain accountability in daily record-keeping, and strengthen the follow-up of spiritual and evangelistic growth in the region.

The session concluded by reaffirming the leaders’ commitment to continue working faithfully, sowing the message of the gospel everywhere and trusting that God will bring growth according to His purpose.

Written by Isaac Aranda

One of the most notable aspects of this awakening is the mobilization of young people to the mission field. An example of this is the arrival of a young Bolivian woman in Colombia, who has traveled with the purpose of receiving ministerial training and participating in the Easter Retreat, highlighting the international and formative character that the mission is taking in the region.

This movement is also evident in Quito, where the Missions Department held a strategic meeting focused on strengthening the vision and aligning expansion plans, as well as evaluating progress in Bible studies and the support of new believers. A plan for expansion was established toward cities such as Riobamba, Puyo, Latacunga, and Ambato, with Riobamba identified as a strategic location. This four-month plan integrates in-person and virtual evangelism, consistent discipleship, and comprehensive care for new believers.

Similarly, in Buenos Aires, the missionary team has adopted digital tools to expand its reach. During a session dedicated to creating social media content, missionaries worked on developing dynamic material aimed especially at young people, using platforms such as TikTok and design tools. This strategy responds to the need to communicate the message in a contextualized way, broadening the impact of evangelism in the digital environment.

In Peru, the focus has been on the spiritual and organizational preparation for the Easter Retreat, which will take place in the city of Cajamarca. Members from Lima will travel to this region with the purpose of strengthening both the church and new believers, in a time dedicated to remembering the meaning of the life, death, and resurrection of Christ. Additionally, training sessions focused on faith and order will be developed, strengthening the process of forming new members and marking significant progress in the work through the dedication of a new meeting place.

In Colombia, this awakening is being experienced intensely through formative gatherings such as OLI and the ongoing Easter Retreat, spaces that have brought together leaders and members in times of teaching, prayer, and unity. These events not only strengthen the spiritual life of members but also propel the missionary vision toward new areas of influence.

Likewise, in Chile, specifically in Santiago, preparations for the Easter Retreat have created an atmosphere of faith and expectation. Leaders and members have worked on the detailed organization of the event, reaffirming their commitment to reach more lives and consolidate the work in the city.

Meanwhile, in Brazil, coordination between national and regional leaders has strengthened the missionary structure through strategic meetings that allow for the evaluation of progress, projection of growth, and the maintenance of unity amid expansion. This type of coordination reflects an organized and sustainable model for mission development.

Evangelism in university areas also continues to be a priority in several cities across the continent, where missionary teams are actively working to reach new students, integrating them into Bible studies and supporting their spiritual growth.

This collective effort reflects that the missionary awakening in South America is not an isolated phenomenon, but a comprehensive movement that combines spiritual vision, organized strategies, and the commitment of a new generation. Through testimonies, planning, and action, the church in the South American region continues to move forward steadily, bringing the message of the gospel to new cities and raising leaders who will carry this ever-expanding work into the future.

In this context, the General Office exhorts leaders to renew their commitment to global mission by strengthening local churches that function as strategic centers in every city. This vision directly responds to the Lord’s command: “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations…” (Matthew 28:18-19). This is not merely expansion, but obedience to the authority of Christ.

One of the central principles reaffirmed is the need to move forward without turning back. Scripture clearly warns: “No one, having put his hand to the plow, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God” (Luke 9:62). Therefore, ministers are called to remain steadfast, not yielding to fatigue or uncertainty, but persevering in the work the Lord has set before them.

At the same time, it is emphasized that Christian leadership does not consist in seeking new human strategies, but in returning to the centrality of the Word of God. As declared in 2 Timothy 3:16-17: “All Scripture is given by inspiration of God… that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.” The Word not only instructs, but forms and sustains both life and ministry.

OA South America also underscores the importance of recovering the spiritual momentum of the missionary movement. The apostolic exhortation remains: “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature” (Mark 16:15). This calling requires going out, advancing, opening new fields, and avoiding stagnation that extinguishes the initial fire of ministry.

Regarding church life, the biblical model that must sustain all work is reaffirmed: “And they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers” (Acts 2:42). The proclamation of the Word, genuine fellowship, and active service form the foundation of a healthy and fruitful church.

Looking ahead, the General Office projects a decisive expansion of the work in South America as part of a global movement. This vision is anchored in promises such as Isaiah 60:22: “A little one shall become a thousand, and a small one a strong nation.” Every city represents an open door, and every minister is called to build with faith and vision.

There is also a call to integrity in key areas of leadership. Scripture warns: “For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil” (1 Timothy 6:10), and teaches that no one can serve two masters (Matthew 6:24). Ministers must live in spiritual freedom, understanding that true wealth is the authority that comes from a life fully surrendered to God.

Finally, it is reaffirmed that the missionary work is sustained by the power of prayer. As the Word declares: “Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit, says the Lord of hosts” (Zechariah 4:6). It is through persistent prayer that God opens doors, transforms lives, and establishes His work.

In this Lenten season, OA South America calls all its ministers to deepen their relationship with God, to persevere with patience as exhorted in James 5:7-8, and to move forward in faith, remembering that “the word of God is living and powerful” (Hebrews 4:12). The Lord continues to work in history, and now more than ever, His Church is called to move with clarity, authority, and love toward those who are still waiting to be reached.