From January 29 to 31, 2026, the Congress of the Confederation of Evangelical Fundamental Churches of Chile (CIEF Chile) was held at Colegio Darío Salas, located in the city of Padre Las Casas, near Temuco. The host church, the Independent Methodist Church (IMI), graciously oversaw accommodations and meals, fostering a warm spirit of Christian fellowship and unity.
The general theme of the Congress was: “Lights in the World: Witnesses of the Truth in a World of Darkness.” This theme was developed through four main addresses that confronted key doctrinal and cultural challenges of our time:
“Lights to Uphold the Purity of the Bible”, presented by Rev. Jaime Osvaldo Gómez Cárdenas (4th IEA, Santiago).
“Lights to Denounce Apostasy,” presented by Rev. Edison Gamaliel Correa Montecinos (IPFB, Monte Águila).
“Lights Against Post-Truth and Deconstructionism,” presented by Rev. Edgardo Ezequiel Medina Burdiles (IPFB, Vallenar).
“Lights to Help Those Who Suffer Persecution,” presented by Rev. Manuel Eduardo Ulloa Vargas (1st IMI, Santiago).
Each message reaffirmed CIEF Chile’s commitment to sound doctrine and unwavering fidelity to the Word of God in the midst of an increasingly challenging cultural environment.
During the Congress, a historical overview of CIEF Chile was presented, recalling its foundations and development through the years. The event also marked the celebration of the 60th anniversary of AFFAL Chile (Fundamentalist Women’s Association for Latin America), recognizing the faithful and consistent service of women in the Lord’s work.
Additionally, the annual report of CJEF Chile (Confederation of Fundamentalist Evangelical Youth) was presented, highlighting its ministry among young people.
Total attendance reached 236 participants, primarily representing the three missions that compose CIEF Chile: the Bible Fundamentalist Presbyterian Church (IPFB), the Independent Methodist Church (IMI), and the Evangelical Alliance Church (IEA).
One of the most significant highlights of the Congress was the relaunch of the official magazine El Faro (“The Lighthouse”), Issue No. 29. A total of 1,000 full-color copies were printed and distributed at near-cost value (approximately 2,000 Chilean pesos), marking an important milestone in the dissemination of fundamental biblical literature in Chile.
Reports and invitations were also presented for the upcoming CIIC Congress to be held in Africa in July 2026, as well as the ALADIC Congress, scheduled to take place in Iquitos, Peru, from January 18 to 23, 2027. The program also included opportunities to acquire fundamental Christian literature and to take the official Congress photograph.
No board elections were held this year, as leadership terms extend for two years. The current board continues faithfully in its responsibilities.
The 65th CIEF Chile Congress will be hosted by the IEA near Puerto Montt from January 28 to 30, 2027.
We give thanks to the Lord for this time of edification, fellowship, and doctrinal reaffirmation.
“That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world” (Philippians 2:15 – King James Version, 1611).
