From Four Walls to Every Corner

In the heart of Ecuador, a powerful movement is taking root, embodying the Church Development Network’s mission of “A relentless pursuit of obedient disciples.” Pastors Fernando Aguilar and Carlos Arboleda, along with their dedicated team, are bringing Matthew 28:18-20 to life, planting churches that promise to transform communities one family at a time.

What sets these church planters apart is their unwavering commitment to step beyond the confines of traditional church walls. Inspired by visiting U.S. pastors Javier and Martha Mendoza, Fernando and Carlos embraced a vision larger than themselves. Their humility and openness to guidance led them to see the vast harvest field waiting outside their comfort zones.

However, these planters quickly realized the limitations of their current approach. “We were inspired to leave where we were within four walls,” Carlos reflects. The challenge was clear: how could they reach the multitudes when the workers were so few? This realization sparked a journey that would take them from their familiar surroundings to the streets and homes of their community.

Nonetheless, through a series of divine appointments and strategic gatherings, answers were in sight. Starting with an initial encounter with the Mendozas, the vision grew. A second meeting solidified their commitment, and a third brought together humble pastors eager to receive this seed of church planting. On August 23, 2024, their faith bore fruit as they launched their first gathering, bringing together 100 attendees from various churches in the Durán canton of Guayaquil.

Today, the Evangelical Covenant Church New Life and Free Methodist Living Water Church stand as testaments to their faith and hard work. But they’re not stopping there. Their short-term goal is to plant churches in the homes of receptive families, while their long-term vision is ambitious yet inspiring: to plant an average of 10 churches per year in different sectors of their city.

“We hope to influence more pastors and that this church planting becomes impregnated in the DNA of the church,” says Fernando. Their dream is to see a church on every corner of their city and beyond, touching families with God’s love and raising up peace-makers who will multiply this vision.

As they move forward, Fernando, Carlos, and their team are grateful for the prayers and support of the global church community. 

Their story reminds us that when we focus on Jesus’ commission, He is indeed faithful to build His church – not just within four walls, but in every corner of our communities and world.