Growth

Neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow. 1Corinthians 3:7

By Laurel Ellis

December 5^th, 2023

Grateful and Focused

This was the theme of the 70th anniversary of the Assemblies of God of Chile: grateful for the past and focused on the future. Hundreds of pastors and leaders gathered together for three days of celebration and vision casting in the capital city of Santiago. The executive presbytery invited me and a number of other missionaries who have served in Chile over the years. After being gone for almost seven years, I was impressed with the growth of the movement, it's energy, young people and the clear vision for the future. God is at work !

The traditional folkloric dance of Chile, the cueca.

What a joy to see these young adult pastor's kids who attended CBC while studying at the University of Concepción.

Jessica, a dear friend from Concepción is now the National Director of Sunday Schools.

Bruce Manning, the senior missionary at the event, having arrived with his family to Chile in 1963.

Dave and Carol Ellis were special invited guests and are pictured here with two of the pastoral families from the church in Concepción.

Dave Ellis preached about the need to plant more churches.

Current and past missionaries were honored at the event.

Laurel receiving a 70th anniversary plaque from the National Superintendent, Marcelo Marcón.

Hector and Katherine, church planters in Vicuña where Rick's memorial funds are helping build their sanctuary.

Continued growth

What a blessing to visit two of the churches Rick and I planted in southern Chile. CBC in Concepción is using the large building for their Sunday services although it hasn't been remodeled yet. They are hoping to raise the funds for this in the next months as it is very needed. The smaller sanctuary is no longer adequate because of the tremendous growth they have experienced since returning to in-person services after a year and a half of being online due to Covid.

I also visited the church we planted in Arauco, 50 miles to the south of Concepción. In both the Concepción and Arauco churches the pastors and many other friends showered me with love and hospitality.