God at Work
As we reflect on the path of Christian faith throughout history, we’re reminded of the deep and enduring questions that have shaped the church. From the early debates on the nature of Christ, to the medieval discussions around salvation, and now to today’s critical focus on human identity and purpose, the questions we face remain remarkably similar.
--What does it mean to be human?
--How do we define our identity in a world that often leaves that question unanswered?
At the core of our ministry, we believe that these questions are understood in the light of Scripture: humanity was created by God, made in His image, and finds its true identity and purpose through a restored relationship with Him. The redemption that comes through Jesus Christ offers the solution to the greatest problem we face—death and separation from God.
This belief shapes everything Virginia and I do in ministry. Our mission is not just to present what we believe but to help others understand why we believe it. In a world that constantly challenges the truth of God’s design for humanity, we are committed to offering training, resources, and activities that guide individuals to a deeper understanding of their identity in Christ and to live out their God-given purpose and share this truth with others.
Your support plays a crucial role in enabling us to provide these opportunities for spiritual growth for individuals and communities.
Thank you for partnering with us in prayer and financially. We look forward to continuing this journey together.
Together, reaching the lost by training the found,
Gilbert & Virginia Contreras
AG Missionaries to Argentina
Ministry Highlights
A legacy of training and discipleship
This past weekend, Virginia and I had the privilege of participating in the Escuela Bíblica conference, where we each led a plenary session. It was a powerful reminder of how God continues to work through the seeds planted over the years. What we began more than a decade ago is now thriving under new leadership, yet the vision remains the same. Seeing those we trained and mentored continuing the work with passion and dedication is both humbling and inspiring.
Not all of the Escuela Bíblica representatives were able to be there, but here is a picture of some of them—leaders who are carrying the mission forward in the nation. This is what multiplication in ministry looks like! Your prayers and support are making an impact beyond what we could have imagined, as the next generation continues to be equipped to reach and disciple others.
Ministering in Bariloche: A full-circle moment
While we were at our missionary retreat, we had the opportunity to visit with the pastors of a local church in Bariloche and speak at their packed midweek service. What made this moment even more special was that these pastors were once students I had the privilege of teaching at the Bible school in Arg, in 2001.
Seeing them now, faithfully leading and shepherding their congregation, was a powerful reminder of how investing in the next generation bears fruit for years to come. It was an incredible joy to reconnect, encourage them, and witness how God is using them to impact their community. Moments like these reaffirm the importance of training and equipping leaders who will continue to advance God’s kingdom.
SALT Conference 2025 - a powerful encounter
This past January, I had the privilege of attending the SALT Conference, a gathering focused on university ministry. Throughout the event, I engaged in deep and meaningful conversations with students, many of whom were longing for connection, guidance, and encouragement. Time and time again, I was reminded of the immense need students have for real relationships and spiritual mentorship.
One moment, in particular, left a lasting impact on me. As I spoke with a young man, I could see that he was deeply moved. When I hugged him and put my hand on his head to pray for him, he began to cry—tears of grief, longing, and perhaps healing. Afterward, he shared that this simple gesture reminded him of his father, who had passed away a few years earlier. In that moment, I realized again how vital it is for students to experience the love of Christ through genuine relationships.
I left SALT with a renewed conviction: today’s students are longing for real, deep, and meaningful relationships. They need mentors, people who will walk with them, listen to them, and speak into their lives. And through your support—both in prayer and giving—you are making this possible. Every conversation, every moment of encouragement, every life impacted is a testament to the role you play in this ministry. Thank you for being a part of what God is doing in the lives of university students!
A hunger for God's word
Recently, Virginia was invited to speak at a women’s gathering, Mujeres Decididas en Tiempos Difíciles. When we arrived, we were told that the power was out and that the meeting might have to be moved to the church foyer. The power returned and the women gathered, eager to hear the message.
Just ten minutes into Virginia’s message, the power went out completely! But instead of leaving, the women moved their chairs in closer, gathered around her, and used their cell phones to light the room. They were determined to hear the Word of God. They weren’t going anywhere. It was a powerful reminder that there is such a deep hunger for God’s truth, and when people are truly seeking, nothing—not even a power outage—can stop them.
Our vision in ministry has always been to Reach the lost by training the found. This moment reaffirmed our commitment: wherever there is a need and a hunger, we will teach. Shortly after, the power came back on, and Virginia was able to deliver a powerful charge to the women. But the real power in that room had nothing to do with electricity—it was in the faith and determination of those who refused to let anything keep them from God’s Word.
Thank you for your prayers and support. You are part of moments like these, where lives are being impacted and faith is being strengthened!
Prayer Requests
Pray for open doors with pastors and local churches Pray that God would open doors with pastors and church leaders who have a heart for reaching university students. Ask that they would catch the vision for university ministry in their congregations and be willing to equip and support their students in their faith journey.
Pray for spiritual hunger among univeristy students Ask God to stir a deep hunger for His Word and truth among the university students across Argentina. Pray that students would seek meaningful relationships and, most importantly, find a strong Christian community within the local church, where they can grow in their faith and be discipled.
Pray for strength and protection With constant travel and ministry demands, pray for God’s strength, health, and protection over us and our team. Pray for safe travels, good health, and endurance as we serve.
Pray for lasting impact from conferences and training events We praise God for the opportunities to equip leaders and students through conferences like Escuela Bíblica, and other training events. Pray that what is taught would take root and bear lasting fruit, strengthening leaders who will continue the work in their local churches and universities.
Upcoming events April 5-7 - Biblical Conviction with Biblical Compassion conference, (Northern Argentina) April 16-20 - The AG University student network (REDU) conference in Lima Peru Sept 19-21 - Biblical Conviction with Biblical Compassion conference, Bariloche Arg. Sept 19-21 - University Student training, Bariloche Arg.
Click here to download a print copy https://tinyurl.com/yudsyw5b
