Taking the Gospel to the Island of Enchantment

by Rick Bowling

Free Will Baptists have been burdened for the people of Puerto Rico for decades. Many missionaries have accepted the vision of reaching Puerto Ricans with the gospel. Much prayer, financial support, and time has been spent in efforts to establish a strong and lasting church on this beautiful island paradise.

Then, eight years ago, everything changed. We had no missionary to send to Puerto Rico, so the ministry stopped. It looked as though Free Will Baptists had no future on this island that needs the gospel message so badly. Thank the Lord, He had other plans!

A couple in the United States was looking for something to satisfy the longing of their souls. Jose and Suhey Correa found the answer in Jesus Christ and committed their lives to Him. They learned about the Gwen Hendrix Hispanic Free Will Baptist Bible Institute in Inman, South Carolina. In 2009, they decided to go to the institute to learn more about God’s Word. After completing the required studies and graduating, God gave them a burden for their home, Puerto Rico.

In 2010, they returned to Puerto Rico to carry on the Free Will Baptist dream of reaching Las Isla del Encanto—the Island of Enchantment—for Christ. They have been working hard, and God has blessed. Each Sunday, more than a hundred people attend services. During the week they host Bible studies for men, women, and young people.

Throughout the year they sponsor retreats for all ages. Each week, they venture into shopping centers and parks to share tracts, preach the Word, and build relationships. The future of Free Will Baptists on the island is bright.

The Correas started an academy with eight students this year. They hope to imitate the ministry of Free Will Baptists on St. Croix in the U.S. Virgin Islands, and completely underwrite the expense of their work. Larry Powell, first missionary to Puerto Rico, and recently retired director of Home Missions, believes the Correas will be successful with this strategy.

Ministry on new fields takes time, and we need your help. Pastor Jose and the people of the Puerto Rico church face the expense of ministry in addition to future building projects. I don’t want to see this ministry halted by a lack of finances. Maybe God is touching your heart to partner with Pastor Jose and Suhey to help underwrite the cost of building a lasting church in Puerto Rico. Help this dedicated couple build a church in Puerto Rico that will be known for preaching the gospel, winning people to Christ, and building His Kingdom.

About the Writer: Rick Bowling is director of Hispanic Ministries for Home Missions. Learn more at www.homemissions.net.