Rev. Juan Pichardo Remembered for a Life of Faith, Leadership, and Mission in the Dominican Republic

The Christian and Missionary Alliance family in the Dominican Republic remembers Rev. Juan Pichardo, a pastor, church planter, and former national president whose ministry shaped generations of leaders and advanced the gospel at home and beyond.

For more than six decades, Rev. Juan Pichardo devoted his life to proclaiming the gospel, strengthening the church, and preparing leaders who would continue the work long after him. His ministry reached beyond the Dominican Republic, leaving a mark on churches, pastors, and communities across the region. On April 30, 2026, he entered the presence of the Lord at the age of 95, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire a new generation to embrace the Great Commission.

Born on December 18, 1930, Rev. Pichardo came to know Christ while he was still a young salesman. His encounter with the Savior changed the direction of his life and led him to dedicate himself to serving others. His family supported his calling from the beginning, and together with his wife they raised 10 children, many of whom continue serving in ministry today.

His pastoral ministry officially began in 1970. He served as pastor of Buen Pastor Church for more than 45 years while also planting several churches throughout the Dominican Republic. Those who knew him remember not only his commitment to preaching the gospel but also his gentle spirit, kindness, and genuine concern for people. He consistently encouraged believers to remain faithful to Christ’s mission and to live in unity as the body of Christ.

Rev. Pichardo was among the founders of the Christian and Missionary Alliance (C&MA) in the Dominican Republic, helping establish a foundation that continues to serve churches across the nation. From 1992 to 1997, he served as national president, investing much of his energy in developing leaders. Many of the young people he mentored are now pastors and ministry leaders who continue serving throughout the country.

His vision extended beyond national borders. On several occasions, he traveled with other leaders to Cuba, where they helped plant churches and strengthen the growing ministry there. He also participated in gatherings and initiatives with the global Alliance family, always encouraging cooperation in fulfilling Christ’s command to make disciples of all nations.

Rev. Enrique Rosa, national president of The Christian and Missionary Alliance (C&MA) Church in the Dominican Republic, remembers Rev. Pichardo as one of the men who helped shape his own life and ministry. Having known him since childhood through a close friendship between their families, Rosa recalls that Rev. Pichardo treated him “like one of his own sons.” Reflecting on his influence, he says, “I am a product of that leadership.” Rosa also described him as a man devoted to preaching, prayer, and the Great Commission who faithfully served in many leadership roles and worked tirelessly to strengthen the church’s leaders. He added that Rev. Pichardo loved to sing hymns because he believed “the hymns carry the message,” a conviction that reflected his lifelong passion for proclaiming the gospel.

Throughout his ministry, Rev. Pichardo often emphasized two themes: the Great Commission and the unity of the church. He longed to see every person hear the message of salvation, and in his later years he continued serving by counseling and encouraging national leaders. Before the Lord called him home, he repeatedly expressed one desire—that the national church would remain united.

Rev. Pichardo died peacefully at his home following a respiratory illness associated with advanced age. His visitation and funeral service were held on April 30 at Memorial Funeral Home in Santo Domingo, followed by his burial at Memorial Cemetery. National Alliance leaders, pastors from across the country, representatives of other Christian organizations, family members, and many friends gathered to honor a man whose life had influenced countless others. A memorial service was later held to celebrate the legacy he leaves behind.

His passing has been deeply felt throughout the Christian community in the Dominican Republic. While many mourn the loss of a respected pastor and leader, they also give thanks for a life spent pointing others to Christ. His ministry continues through his family, the leaders he discipled, the churches he helped establish, and the many believers who answered God’s call because of his example.

As the Alliance family remembers Rev. Juan Pichardo, we also remember the prayer that shaped his ministry—that the church would remain united as it carries the gospel to those who have not yet heard. His life stands as a testimony that faithfulness, humility, and perseverance can influence generations for the Kingdom of God.

Please join us in praying for his family, asking the Lord to strengthen them with his peace and to preserve the unity that Rev. Pichardo cherished throughout his life and ministry.