A journey of unwavering faith connecting apostolic origins with nationwide expansion in Panama.
The origin of the Christian church is marked by the descent of the Holy Spirit in Jerusalem. This historic and spiritual event established the apostolic foundation that IPUL preserves to this day.
"God opens a path through the jungle"
In this first stage, the work was born in secrecy, far from the cities, deep in the Darien. There were no structures, no resources, no paved roads — only a divine calling and hearts willing to obey.
God began writing this story through pioneers like Gabriel Aji, Anibal Cansari, and Ember Ochoa — humble men with steadfast faith who received the gospel message and spread it among indigenous and rural communities.
The jungle witnessed the first altars, raised amid limitations but filled with the presence of God.
This stage was marked by
Evangelism under adverse conditions
Conversion of entire families
Formation of faith communities without formal structure
There was no organization yet, but there was a living work. It was the time when the seed was planted with tears, effort, and radical obedience.
"God opens doors in the city"
With the arrival of missionaries Orlando Jimenez and his wife Teresa, a new stage begins: the transition from the jungle to the city. God begins to order, structure, and give direction to the work.
Later, missionaries Fernando Sierra and his wife Claribel Calvo join, strengthening the vision of national expansion.
This stage represents
Establishment in Panama City
Initial organization of the church
Opening new congregations in urban and coastal areas
God opens strategic doors and positions the work in key locations. The church begins to be recognized and grows with direction.
"God extends the work"
Leadership & Expansion
Esdras Barranco and Elsa Hurtado
Under their leadership, IPUL Panama enters a stage of significant expansion. The work ceases to be just a growing movement and becomes a network of churches across different regions of the country.
During this stage we see
Multiplication of congregations
Opening new works in provinces and rural areas
The missionary vision is strengthened and begins to be embraced by the local church. It is no longer just sowing — now it multiplies.
"God establishes the foundation"
Japhet Masmela and Patricia Suarez
The work enters a process of spiritual and organizational strengthening.
Strengthened areas
Ministerial structure
Doctrinal teaching
Holistic discipleship
Jose Martinez and Mirna Parra
The church took another step forward toward consolidation.
Key emphases
Ministry to the nation's children
Strengthening pastoral leadership
In this stage the church affirms itself, stabilizes, and prepares for new challenges. What was sown and multiplied is now firmly established.
"The mission advances"
Guillermo and Janeth Rativa
With their arrival, a new phase begins: the projection of missions in Panama.
The church enters a time where
Strengthened areas la vision misionera nacional
Administrative structure is implemented
Training and development spaces are expanded and strengthened across all areas of church growth
This stage is oriented toward growth and consolidation of institutional identity, reaffirming the profile and role of ministers and pastors' wives, as well as the function of each official role.