Meet Iván García, the New President of the Alliance of Argentina

With more than three decades of pastoral ministry, a deep commitment to spiritual formation, and a heart for unity, Rev. Iván Alfredo García steps into this leadership role with a clear sense of calling and purpose.

Rev. Iván García and his wife began pastoral ministry 31 years ago, when they were commissioned by Pastor Félix Jiménez to serve in Catriel, Río Negro, Argentina. Five years later, they were called to pastor the C&MA congregation in Paso de los Libres, Corrientes, a church founded by Pastor Carmelo Terranova. They have served that congregation faithfully for 26 years, leading generations of believers and strengthening the church’s witness in the region.

Throughout his ministry, Rev. García has been shaped by key mentors and leaders, including missionaries David and Betty Constance and pastors Eduardo Crema and Félix and Graciela Jiménez. Their investment helped solidify his pastoral calling and leadership vision.

He also served for approximately 21 years on the National Board, a period that deepened his love for pastors and for the church across the country.

Born in Neuquén, Argentina, Rev. García grew up in a home deeply influenced by the faith of his mother, Santos del Carmen Pereira, whose prayers shaped the lives of her six children. Although he spent his early years connected to the Baptist church in Cipolletti, it was in 1977 that he experienced a genuine personal encounter with Christ, marking the beginning of his true spiritual journey.

Rev. García joined the Christian and Missionary Alliance (C&MA) in 1982 in the city of Cipolletti, Río Negro. He pursued theological education through the extension centers of the Buenos Aires Bible Institute and continued developing his pastoral training over the years through courses and seminary studies. Yet, he emphasizes that his most formative discipline has been a daily pursuit of God’s presence and the guidance of the Holy Spirit through Scripture.

He married Janina Perán Young on December 19, 1986. Together they have raised four children—Yenit Aileen (37), Pamela (35), Salomé (30), and Iván Emanuel (28)—all of whom continue walking with Christ. Their family has also expanded through the marriages of three of their children.

Rev. García was elected as president of the C&MA of Argentina during the national assembly on November 1, 2025, where delegates recognized his spiritual maturity, pastoral heart, and long-standing service to the denomination. He will serve a two-year term, guiding the church’s vision and strengthening its ministry in Argentina.

“My priority will be to work toward unity,” says Rev. García, “focusing intentionally on the pastoral body—strengthening relationships, nurturing spiritual maturity, and cultivating the character of Christ in each of us.”

He sees this unity as foundational for fulfilling the Great Commission. “Unity,” he says, “is the basis for accomplishing the calling of Matthew 24:14.”

Rev. García also longs to see a new generation of pastors rise within the Alliance—leaders shaped by the character of Christ and passionate about taking the gospel to the ends of the earth.

He asks the global Alliance family to pray for wisdom as he begins this new ministry, for the human and financial resources to serve the national church effectively, and for God to raise a new generation of pastors committed to Christ’s mission.