South America Region

Argentina

Argentina is one of the once United Provinces of the Rio de la Plata, which in 1816 declared their independence from Spain. Originally, these provinces included Argentina, Bolivia, Paraguay, and Uruguay. From the 1860s to the 1930s, Argentina was largely a nation of immigrant populations, referring to itself as a “crucible of races.” The origins of the vast majority of Argentina’s population are European (primarily Spanish and Italian descent), and mestizo (a mixture of European and Amerindian). While the vast majority of the population claims to be Christian, most also admit that they do not practice their faith. The Church of the Nazarene entered Argentina in 1919, one of the earliest mission fields in South America. Passionate for missions, the churches in Argentina are thinking intergenerationally about how best to engage in God’s missions in their own country and around the world.

Pilar’s story and the “Wheels for Education" Project

Recently, a local church experienced a very special missionary service, thanks to the visit of the Ramírez family, Argentine missionaries who have been serving in Guinea-Bissau for two years. Through technology, missionaries were able to virtually share the experiences and challenges of the missions field, and it was a moment of deep connection with God’s work in Africa.

One of the stories that made the most impact was the "Wheels for Education" project in Guinea-Bissau. This initiative aims to reward the student with the best school GPA with a bicycle, allowing that student to overcome the distance barrier that separates children from the nearest middle school, which is 28 km away. Through this project, many children can continue their studies without dropping out because of the distance from schools. 

The Children's Missionary Orientation Camp (COMI—its acronym in Spanish) offers the youth and children the opportunity to develop in God's mission: MAKING CHRISTLIKE DISCIPLES.

This project touched the heart of Pilar, a 10-year-old girl who attends the Church of the Nazarene in Argentina. Hearing of the need, Pilar sold her bicycle to buy one for a child in Guinea-Bissau. However, seeing that was not enough, she also sold her skates, hoping in faith that her offering would reach the amount needed for the project. 

During the Ramírez family’s mission tour in Argentina, Pilar handed over an envelope containing the money she had raised—an offering of much love and sacrifice. This act of generosity and faith deeply touched the missionaries, who thanked God for Pilar’s sensitive heart. 

Pilar’s impact was not only personal, but the entire church in Portezuelo joined in this effort. The church organized fundraising activities, such as a “metegol” (foosball) championship. Pilar’s dedication was a clear example of how new generations, moved by God’s love, can make a difference in the lives of others, regardless of distance. 

The "Wheels for Education" project has not only been a blessing for children in Guinea-Bissau, but it has also left a deep mark on the hearts of children and young people in Argentina. Pilar, with her faith and generosity, showed that, although small in age, her heart has the power to touch lives around the world. From Guinea-Bissau, the missionaries sent a very special thank you: "Obrigado, Pilar."