Latin American Alliance Gathers in Mexico to Embody the Call as “Witnesses of Christ Everywhere”

In September 2024, the city of Guadalajara, Mexico, became the setting for a gathering of AWF Latin America (CLA) Region for 130 leaders and delegates.

Representatives from across ten Latin American countries convened in Guadalajara, Mexico, September 23-25, 2024, for the Latin America (CLA) Regional Conference. It was shared prayers, transformative teachings, and a unity that transcended borders.

The first evening unfolded with a rich blend of Mexican culture and worship, beginning with an inaugural dinner and traditional mariachi performances that set a joyous tone. Pastor Alex Fajardo, a CLA board member, warmly welcomed attendees, while CLA President Pastor David Muthre and AWF President Pastor Jurandir Yanagihara offered opening words of encouragement. Their messages centered on the guiding theme, “Witnesses of Christ Everywhere,” setting a tone of reverence and purpose that would carry through each session.

Plenary sessions illuminated the principles of Spirit-led witness, drawing from the Book of Acts. Pastor Walter Pérez, a board member of the Latin American Theological Faculty (FATELA), spoke on “Bold and Integral Testimony,” challenging participants to live and serve courageously. Pastor Miguel Ángel Palomino, the director of FATELA, shared “Different Ways to Achieve Purpose as Witnesses,” emphasizing creativity and resilience in ministry, while Pastor David Muthre led a session titled “The Vision of Godly Men,” which inspired small group prayer times that deepened the sense of shared mission.

“It has been significant for me to meet the Mexican and Latin American Alliance family,” said Pastor Tranquilino Candia, the president of the C&MA of Paraguay.

Tuesday afternoon’s CLA Regional Conference focused on the region’s ministry progress, as leaders shared updates on missions, education, and community outreach. Each report painted a vivid picture of God’s work throughout Latin America. Theological Institutions of the Alliance in Latin America (ITAAL) were highlighted by ITAAL representatives Pastor Juan Forttini and Sister Hilda González, who described their cross-border efforts to equip pastors and lay leaders. Sister Isabel Freire de Muthre, the coordinator of the CLA Women’s Ministry “Amada,” shared stories of women’s ministry initiatives, embodying the spirit of sisterhood that defines “Amada.” These moments resonated with attendees, reaffirming the transformative impact of each ministry.

Pastor Daniel Fanderwud, the president of the C&MA of Argentina, presented a video recounting the history of the C&MA of Mexico, bringing a sense of nostalgia and celebration. With the worship team leading the attendees in song, the room was filled with the power of collective worship, a unifying experience that transcended language and nationality. Pastor Fajardo then explored the theme “Communicating the Gospel in a Secular World,” urging attendees to approach ministry with relevance and authenticity today.

The final day began with worship that resonated through the conference hall, as Pastor Ángel Barrientos, the president of the C&MA of Peru, opened with the message “Pastoral Leadership Communicates in Different Facets.” Later, Pastor Iván Flores, the president of the C&MA of Chile, reflected on “Commitment to Truth, Justice, and Proclaiming to All Creation,” encouraging leaders to remain steadfast in their calling. The closing message from Pastor Merari Rodríguez, the president of the C&MA of Guatemala, “Blessing After the Shipwreck,” reminded everyone that, even in adversity, God’s grace endures, bringing hope and renewal.

Beyond the sessions and presentations, there were personal exchanges, shared meals, and heartfelt prayers that marked this gathering. Attendees enjoyed the flavors of Mexico, including traditional dishes served during communal meals that created opportunities for fellowship. In these moments, bonds of friendship and unity grew stronger, underscoring the commitment of CLA’s leaders to walk together as one family.

As the event ended, attendees expressed their gratitude to God, the CLA leadership, and each other. The gathering in Guadalajara wasn’t just an event—it was a profound experience that refreshed and renewed each person’s commitment to being “Witnesses of Christ Everywhere.”

“For us, it has been a great opportunity to get together with our Alliance family, make friends with new people and get to know what God is doing in other national churches,” Pastors José Luis and Maribel Jaldín, president of the C&MA of Bolivia, added.

Leaving Guadalajara, the attendees carried with them the echoes of shared worship, a renewed dedication to service, and the certainty that their stories, united in Christ, would continue to transform communities across Latin America.