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. Ernie and Carol Mason, with sons Eric and John, arrived in 1996. They now have a beautiful and practical building with soccer field–-Iglesia Bautista Vida Abundante. Susan Swigart arrived in July 2000 as a church-planting assistant. Andrew and Romina Self plan to arrive in 2008 to start a work in the capital, Buenos Aires. Paul and Joanna Avery are also on deputation.
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. Almost half of the provinces do not have 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. Ministries such as children's outreach, youth, university, and teaching English as a second language, along with biblical counseling, are needed for effectively reaching out to the people of this country.