Guatemala Partnership (ILAG)

ILAG Vision and Mission: The Iglesia Luterana Agustina de Guatemala is a church dedicated to sharing the gospel and carrying out the work of God, developing equitable pastoral and lay leadership, with self-sufficiency in theological, economic and social areas with vulnerable communities and support development projects for the Lutheran Community, and to contribute to the improvement of the quality of life of families and individuals who will be the basis of a better society in Guatemala. 

ILAG was founded in 1991 by Bishop Horacio and Pastora Esther Castillo and their family. In 2005, the ELCA Saint Paul Area Synod assembly established a companion synod relationship with ILAG. In 2009, the Synod asked Grace Lutheran Church to become a partner church with ILAG. 

The three-year Companion Congregation Partnership Covenant between Grace Lutheran Church of Apple Valley, Minnesota, and Messengers of Christ Lutheran Church of Santa Elena, Guatemala, was renewed in November 2023. The Covenant defines a relationship between the two congregations based in the love of Christ that includes prayer, mutual respect and understanding, and frequent communication. The three-year agreement also includes a financial commitment by Grace in support of Messengers of Christ. However, this does not imply a hierarchical partnership; rather the two congregations “walk together” as equals in response to Christ’s calling. 

The Covenant has been approved by the Church Council and was signed during the service on November 12, 2023.  It was then brought by the Grace delegation to Santa Elena in November  2023 for ratification. Read the covenant at the link below: