How We Got Started: Guatemala
The Birth of the Movement
This is a story perseverance, prayer, and God’s unfailing grace. Its roots stretch back to the early 1980s, when a young seminary student named Rodrigo Argueta studied at theological seminary in Guatemala City. He faced the challenge of balancing rigorous studies with limited resources, but the Lord provided through a local church member who provided financial support. This simple act of generosity became a seed that would grow into a new local church.
In 1984, after completing his studies, Rodrigo—together with fellow students—launched a small cell group in a local neighborhood. Meeting in humble surroundings, the group prayed, studied Scripture, and shared the gospel with neighbors. Though small, they carried a burning vision for God’s Kingdom. Soon, another seminary student, Nolberto España, and his wife joined the work. Though the original founders eventually moved on, the flame they lit never went out.
God continued to raise up leaders, most notably Paris Peña, who became a driving force in strengthening the young church. Under his leadership, the congregation grew in stability and eventually gained official legal recognition. Paris guided the congregation with faithfulness until his passing, leaving behind a legacy of commitment to Christ and His mission.
The story did not stop there. The church’s connection with the wider Charis Alliance was strengthened as their pastor joined leaders from around the world at the 1999 Charis International Leadership Forum in Argentina. That relationship was strengthened through additional Charis Alliance Forums in 2008 and 2015.
Today, the church faces both challenges and opportunities. Growth has been limited by a lack of resources and wavering commitment among members. Yet, leaders carry a renewed vision to see the church revitalized, grounded in prayer, united in mission, and passionate about evangelism.
One of the most inspiring parts of this story is how God used simple, faithful steps—helping a student with tuition, gathering believers in a small home—to plant seeds that would bear eternal fruit. It is a reminder that no act of service is too small in God’s Kingdom. What began as a fragile cell group is now part of a global family of churches, committed to proclaiming Christ with courage and love.
A Call to Prayer and Support
Praying for the church’s board members to develop a genuine desire to serve, and for the church to align its vision and mission with those of the Charis Alliance.
Ask God to use the church's carpentry shop as a means for discipleship, while also helping support the people who work there.
