From searching to belonging. Believers in Argentina join the FWB denomination!
In early April 2023, Kenneth Eagleton received an email that would mark the beginning of a life-changing connection for both our denomination and a group of believers in Argentina.
Pastor Nicolás Serrano, a church planter from Rosario, Argentina, developed an interest in and reached out seeking help in understanding and sharing the Reformed Arminian doctrine. What started as a simple request for prayer and materials quickly grew into a deeper and more meaningful relationship. Over two months of conversations, Kenneth learned about Nicolás’ journey—his doubts about Calvinism, his study of Scripture, and the painful rejection he faced from his peers. Despite losing members and support, Nicolás and his church (Familia de la Gracia Church) held onto their newfound theological convictions, feeling orphaned and isolated.
The breakthrough came when Nicolás discovered the writings of Free Will Baptists, especially an article by Dr. Matt Pinson, which resonated deeply with him. The church, once struggling to find a community that shared their beliefs, saw in Free Will Baptists a potential church family. This shared doctrine, rich history, and strong missions program led them to reach out to Dr. Eddie Moody, who ultimately forwarded their request to Kenneth. After getting to know Nicolás and his church better, Kenneth was invited to visit them in Argentina in June 2023. Along with Pastor Daniel Gouvea, they traveled to Rosario, where they witnessed firsthand the passion and dedication of the Familia de la Gracia Church.
During the visit, it became clear that this church was eager for connection and growth. Despite the hardships they faced, they were determined to find their place within a larger family of believers. By mid-July, the church voted to officially join the Free Will Baptist denomination.
Nicolás was invited to the U.S. to meet FWB leaders, learn more about the denomination, and learn more about our resources, including our theological writings. It was through a partnership with D6 Family Ministries (formerly Randall House) to translate and publish Free Will Baptist literature in Spanish, furthering their mission to reach their community and beyond.
Since then, the Familia de la Gracia Church has flourished. Not only has attendance increased, but they’ve also expanded into new neighborhoods and even launched a second campus. They are training leaders, reaching out to new communities, and their network of sister churches is growing. Despite Argentina’s economic challenges, the church’s vision for expansion is clear.
Through IM Global Partners and your support through the World Missions Offering, we are thrilled to continue to support this church’s mission, helping them train future leaders and share the Gospel in a country hungry for hope. We are witnessing God’s work in a powerful way, and our prayer is that this partnership will continue to bear fruit for His Kingdom.