Iglesia Bautista Pontevedra

By Johnny Bolin

In September 1995, ABWE missionaries Johnny and Susan Bolin started a new work in Tim and Diane Bilbrey's living room. In addition to the missionaries the embryonic church had just a few neighbors attending the Bible studies. The missionaries tried various activities to spark the interest of the people, but growth was slow.

Toward the end of 1996, the Sunday services were moved to the nearby ABWE Colombia Bible Institute building. The new facilities allowed for greater outreach such as a monthly ladies meeting, and weekly English classes.

The church recently held two special services. Everyone from the church went to the camp property for the Sunday meeting. They worshipped together, witnessed the baptism of nine people, and enjoyed a time of fellowship and a cookout. The day ended by sharing communion as a church family. In the second special service, Cesar and Liliana had a wedding ceremony after morning worship. This couple, parents of two girls, had lived together for ten years. After they came to Christ, they knew that they needed to put their relationship in order.

Now over 40 Colombians attend every week and are growing in their Christian lives. One woman in the church meets weekly with a group of elderly people. One family has a weekly meeting with a group of children from families displaced by the violence in Colombia. It is a joy to see these believers reach out with the Gospel message.