Argentina
The Land and the
People
Argentina is the 8th largest country in the world and ranks third among Latin American nations in population. Argentina is a country rich in natural beauty and capable of offering a wide choice in geography and climatic conditions. Early explorers destroyed the Indians rather than intermarry with them. Thus, Argentina has virtually no Indians and the smallest mestizo population of South America. Vast numbers of European immigrants came to Argentina between 1850 and 1950, especially Italians and Spaniards. Ninety-seven percent of all Argentines have a European ancestry.
Religion
Roman Catholicism is the major religion. There is, nevertheless, freedom of religion, and missionaries are permitted to work there. In recent years there has been a growing acceptance of non-Catholics. Pentecostal churches have grown rapidly. Spiritism, parapsychology, and New Age philosophies are also prominent.
Past and Current
Work
Tom and Neva Parrott opened the field of Argentina for Baptist Mid-Missions in November 1987 in the second largest city–-Cordoba. Another couple arrived in June 1996 and has started the second of only four independent Baptist works in the city. A single missionary, Susan Swigart, arrived in July 2000 as a church-planting assistant.
Goals
Consider this challenge
There is an urgent need for independent Baptist missionaries who are local-church oriented. Church planting must take place with a strong emphasis on total involvement by the Argentine nationals. The door is open with a harvest waiting, as many people have lost hope in their government, religion, and finances. There are entire provinces without any independent Baptist churches. What will you do to help meet this need?
Opportunities for service
Church planters are needed in all areas of Argentina. Additional help is needed with youth and campus outreach. These ministries, along with Biblical counseling, are needed for effectively reaching out to the people of this country.