Evangelical Church of the River Plate Elects New President, Rev. David Cirigliano

Pastor David Juan Cirigliano was elected president of the Evangelical Church of the River Plate (IERP) during its 47th General Synod, held from 8 to 11 October in Hohenau, Paraguay. The synod, themed “I am making all things new,” marked the beginning of Cirigliano’s leadership, succeeding Rev. Leonardo Schindler, who completed eight years of service.

The IERP, which operates in Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay, continues its mission through congregations across these three nations. The election of Cirigliano reflects the church’s ongoing commitment to its theological and pastoral identity, rooted in Lutheran tradition.

Rev. Sonia Skupch, LWF Regional Secretary for Latin America and the Caribbean and North America, expressed support for Cirigliano’s leadership. She emphasized the importance of faith in the Risen One as a source of strength and encouragement for the new president. “May the hope, rooted in our faith in the Risen One, strengthen and sustain you in your ministry,” she said, highlighting the church’s mission to live out grace and mercy in daily life.

Cirigliano, in his personal message following the election, reflected on his spiritual journey and the influences that shaped his calling. He spoke of his mother’s life of prayer, his father’s role as a lay preacher, and his maternal grandfather’s ministry. Drawing from biblical figures such as Elijah, Jonah, Jeremiah, and Isaiah, he underscored the importance of responding to God’s call with sensitivity to people’s needs.

“When the Word of God burns in our mouths, we cannot help but share it and speak it,” Cirigliano said. He emphasized that theological reflection must translate into a faith that addresses the realities and afflictions of the people, aligning with the church’s mission to serve and care for its communities.

The election of a new leader in the IERP underscores the church’s continuity and renewal, as it seeks to navigate the challenges of the present while remaining faithful to its core beliefs and mission. The synod’s theme of renewal echoes Micah 6:8, which calls for justice, mercy, and humility in living out one’s faith.

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