Leaders in the Iglesia Evangélica Menonita Boliviana
Freddy Barrón and Margrit Kipfer Barrón are a dedicated pastoral couple serving the Iglesia Evangélica Menonita Boliviana (IEMB) in Santa Cruz, Bolivia, with a profound impact on the church’s growth and community outreach. Their multifaceted roles in ministry, education, and leadership development have been instrumental in strengthening the IEMB’s mission over decades.
Freddy Barrón
Freddy Barrón is a pastor, theologian, and church leader who serves as the pastor of Sinaí Mennonite Church in Santa Cruz. Beyond his pastoral duties, he holds the position of national president of the IEMB, reflecting his leadership within the denomination. His diverse skill set extends to being an automotive mechanic, showcasing his versatility in serving both spiritual and practical needs in the community. As a co-regional representative for the southern cone of Latin America for the Mennonite World Conference, Freddy fosters connections among Mennonite churches globally, encouraging mutual support and faith.
Margrit Kipfer Barrón
Margrit Kipfer Barrón, originally from Switzerland, began her work in Bolivia in 1994 with Schweizerische Mennonitische Mission (Swiss Mennonite Mission) and Mennonite Mission Network. She coordinates Christian education ministries for the IEMB, focusing on developing disciples across all ages. Margrit has been a driving force behind youth and children’s programs, notably the Equipo Sirviendo a Cristo (Serve Christ Team) workshops, initiated in 2006. These workshops train young leaders to lead vacation Bible school (VBS) sessions, equipping them with scriptural knowledge and teaching skills to engage children effectively. In December 2024 and January 2025, the team she works with led VBS programs in 10 locations with the participation of about 500 children. Margrit’s passion for youth camps stems from her own childhood experiences, and she has worked tirelessly to create similar opportunities for spiritual growth in Bolivia.
Shared ministry and impact
Together, Freddy and Margrit support church planting and leadership development within the IEMB. Their collaborative efforts include preparing leaders for the church’s 12 congregations plus church plants, as celebrated during the IEMB’s 50th anniversary on
February 16, 2025. Together they serve as co-directors of Instituto Menonita de Formación de Líderes – Mennonite Institute of Leadership Training – IMFOLID). Their work has been vital in sustaining the IEMB’s growth, particularly through programs like the Samuelito Daycare Center, which serves the community, and retreats for children, youth, and leaders subsidized by Mennonite Mission Network.
The couple’s ministry emphasizes holistic development, combining theological education, practical training, and community engagement. They have two married daughters and a young adult son and daughter, balancing family life with their extensive service. Their commitment was highlighted in a 2022 “Merienda Menonita” Anabaptist World podcast episode, where they shared insights into the IEMB’s ministry and their roles in nurturing its mission.
Home congregations
Iglesia Evangélica Menonita Boliviana, Bolivia
Alttäufergemeinde Emmental, Lagnau im Emmental, Switzerland
