The Ibero-American Missionary Cooperation (COMIBAM) has been a pillar in Latin America's transformation from a mission field to a global missionary force.
Cristian Castro, its executive director, explained in a recent interview how the movement has evolved from its beginnings in 1987 to the present day, as well as the key challenges facing the missionary world.
The origin of COMIBAM and its impact on global missions
COMIBAM was born out of the first Ibero-American Missionary Congress held in 1987 in São Paulo, Brazil. At that event, Luis Bush proclaimed a phrase that would mark a turning point in missions: “Latin America is no longer a mission field but is becoming a missionary force.” Since then, COMIBAM has grown to have representation in 25 countries, consolidating itself as a cooperative network among churches, organizations, and missionary agencies.
The impact of the movement has been significant. In 1987, there were approximately 1,600 Latin American missionaries worldwide. By 2017, that figure had increased to more than 22,000, according to data collected at the organization's conferences.
COMIBAM's growth and key conferences
After the 1987 congress, the network continued to expand with key events such as:
- Acapulco 1997: Focused on missionary training and the development of training programs.
- Granada 2006: The first congress held in Spain, highlighting Europe's importance as a strategic point for global missions.
- Bogotá 2017: Despite logistical challenges, it gathered 1,700 leaders and focused on strengthening missionary leadership.
COMIBAM has also developed a missionary research observatory, conducting studies on missionaries in the field, sending agencies, and receiving churches, providing key data to improve mission strategies.
Current challenges: new generations and migration
One of the biggest challenges for COMIBAM is involving younger generations in missions. According to recent research, only 6% of pastors in Latin America send missionaries, and only 3% have participated in a mission trip. “If the church and the pastors don't get involved, missions don't advance,” Castro emphasized.
Furthermore, migration and diasporas have become crucial issues. With millions of Latin Americans emigrating to other regions, COMIBAM seeks to understand and mobilize the Christian communities that are part of these movements.
COMIBAM 2025: Panama as a strategic center
The next COMIBAM congress will be held in April 2025 in Panama, focusing on missions as reflected in the book of Acts. Approximately 1,500 leaders are expected to participate, working in strategic focus groups to address key issues such as the indigenous church, missions in the diaspora, and the role of new generations in global evangelization.
“Our goal is not to have massive congresses but strategic meetings where we can truly plan and build the future of the Ibero-American mission,” Castro explained.
A constantly evolving movement
Since its foundation, COMIBAM has demonstrated that the church in Latin America is not only a recipient of missions but also an active force in global evangelization. With the upcoming congress in Panama, the organization aims to continue strengthening its vision and impact on worldwide missions, adapting to current challenges and paving the way for future generations of missionaries.
For more information on COMIBAM and its upcoming congress, visit: www.comibam.org.
Originally published by Diario Cristiano, Christian Daily International's Spanish edition.
