In Memoriam: Félix Jiménez, A Visionary and Compassionate Leader of Faith

Félix Horacio Jiménez, a valued leader in the Christian and Missionary Alliance (C&MA) of Argentina, left a profound legacy of leadership, service, and compassion.

Rev. Félix Jiménez served as president of the C&MA of Argentina for two terms (2009-2017), during which he traveled extensively to encourage pastors across the country and support churches in their growth. His leadership was instrumental in establishing the National Men’s Ministry, fostering unity among congregations, and promoting outreach to vulnerable groups.

Under Jiménez’s leadership, international connections were strengthened by participating in annual AWF CLA (Latin America) Region gatherings and the Alliance World Fellowship (AWF) conference in Bangkok, Thailand in 2016. That included visits to missionaries in Europe. He also introduced “Joni and Friends,” a ministry for people with disabilities, to Argentina. Jiménez played a key role in founding the Patagonian Bible Seminary, where he served as administrator, training future church leaders.

In Cipolletti, Río Negro, Jiménez pastored the local Alliance church for 23 years. He also presided over the Río Negro and Neuquén C&MA districts and led the Cipolletti Pastoral Council. His influence extended beyond church walls into the community. During Argentina’s 2001 economic crisis, he spearheaded initiatives to aid the underprivileged, opening a community kitchen and clothing fairs. He also supported the REMAR ministry, a Christian humanitarian aid NGO that works in recovery from addictions, with women in vulnerable situations, with soup kitchens, etc. He also introduced the OSTE (Sociotherapeutic Operator in Addictions) program, equipping church leaders to assist individuals and families affected by addiction.

One of Pastor Jiménez’s most enduring achievements was the establishment of a camp and retreat center in Fernández Oro in Río Negro. Despite significant challenges, Jiménez transformed a modest property into a thriving complex with facilities for 300 people. This space has become a cornerstone for church retreats, youth camps, and community events, blessing countless individuals across the region.

Jiménez’s administrative skills and visionary leadership were equally evident in his work with “Unión Bíblica (Scripture Union).” He organized camps, retreats, and Christian bookstores, meeting his ambitious goal of opening 10 bookstores in 10 years. His passion for equipping others to serve God marked every aspect of his ministry.

Rev. Jiménez was born on December 7, 1955, in Darregueira, Buenos Aires. Raised by his devout mother, Flavia, he grew up attending a small C&MA church that often lacked pastoral leadership. His faith deepened through interactions with students from the Buenos Aires Bible Institute (IBBA), who ministered in his hometown. Inspired by one student, Osvaldo Vena, Jiménez pursued theological studies at IBBA with a clear purpose: to become a pastor.

While studying, Jiménez demonstrated his pastoral gifts through practical ministry. He served for a year in La Coronilla, Uruguay, focusing on children, teens, and young adults. Returning to Buenos Aires, he worked alongside Pastor Arnoldo Canclini at the C&MA church in Boedo, visiting church members while completing his studies.

After graduating, Jiménez married Graciela Martínez, who shared his pastoral calling. Together, they served in Villa Urquiza and later co-founded the C&MA church in Saavedra, inspired by LED – the Lima Encounter with God movement. His vision eventually led him to Cipolletti, where he spent more than two decades ministering to the community and raising new church leaders.

Jiménez was a man of deep compassion, humility, and hospitality. He had a natural gift for connecting with people and resolving conflicts with grace. His wife, Graciela, recalls him as a loving and supportive partner throughout their 45 years of marriage. Together, they raised two children: Diego, a former pastor in Mendoza, and Natalia, who manages the “La Viña” (The Vineyard) retreat complex. Jiménez was a devoted father and grandfather, cherishing his time with his five grandchildren.

In 2014, Jiménez survived kidney cancer, which allowed him ten more years of fruitful ministry. Despite health challenges and near-death experiences, he remained steadfast in his commitment to serving God and others.

Jiménez passed away on November 7, 2024, at 68 years old, following complications from vocal cord cancer. His life exemplified a heart for ministry, a vision for growth, and an unwavering faith that continues to inspire those he led and served. His influence lives on through the churches, ministries, and leaders he helped shape.