Raising up a new generation of disciples in Latin America
Sep 2009

Contreras Fall 2009 Newsletter is now available!

It’s here!

We just couldn't wait to let you know all that has been happening with university ministries here in Argentina, so our Fall 2009 newsletter is now available! Read it online or download a copy for your times a prayer and intercession.


    In this issue you will find:
    • Testimony: Don't under estimate the power of Prayer
    • Chi Alpha Missions team report
    • National University Ministry retreat update
    • Training and equipping report

Touching lives around the world

These past few months we have had the privilege of hosting missions teams from two different universities, as well as two students who have helped us in our ministry here in Argentina. Marissa Hunt (right), a student of Wheaton College and Danielle Chun (left), a student of UC Davis have both been a blessing to us. A month ago we said goodbye to Marissa and this week we say goodbye to Danielle.

They have been a tremendous blessing to us in so many ways and we are sad to see them go, but they have to return to complete their studies. Let me share with you some of Danielle's thoughts as she prepares to return to the life of a student in California:

"Last year I was given the opportunity to serve in Argentina for two weeks with a group of university students from California. I knew that it was God answering my prayers. Seeing the love of God and His ministry in the Argentine people and on the university campuses greatly impacted me.

They remained in my prayers as I returned to the States and the Lord opened another door for me to serve in Argentina. As another answer to prayer, I have been able to serve alongside Gilbert and Virginia Contreras in Argentina for the past several months and be a part of the student aspect of the university ministry - “Contacto Universitario”. The Lord has used each person greatly to teach and challenge me regarding my faith and relationship with God. Now that I reflect and look back on this trip, I realize that I started with the mindset of how I could serve and bless others here in Argentina. On the contrary, more than me blessing and serving them, I have been greatly blessed to hear and learn more from the Lord with the community here. I think that many times it is easy to settle, especially regarding our faith, to settle down and not be challenged to grow spiritually; I was there at the start of this trip. To be honest, I did not enjoy to be challenged nor did I desire to be put out of my comfort zone of faith. But having my eyes opened by the Lord through the community here has allowed me to grow spiritually and go deeper in the calling the Lord has placed on my life. Seeing the dedication of the missionaries, student leaders, and the students of Contacto Universitario has been an extreme blessing to me. The discipleship, community, and love of God that they live out has challenged me and has also been a great example to teach me of these important principles as a follower of Jesus.

The Lord is moving greatly and doing awesome works in Argentina and I am filled with thankfulness to have witnessed it. From seeing the dedication of the community here to the fruits of prayer through evangelism, God is working greatly in Argentina and in the lives of the individuals here. They have become my family and to have been able to serve with them has been an inexpressible blessing from the Lord. My heart is filled with gratitude and excitement because of what the Lord has done, is doing, and will do in Argentina.

I can say without doubt that the Lord has changed me and has given me more direction regarding my faith."

What a joy to see the students we have worked with here in Argentina touch the lives of others. Thanks for partnering with us in reaching and equipping the next generation of leaders today.