Ben Meyer, VP of Global Ministry, traveled to Costa Rica in April 2026 to see firsthand the effect of Multiplication Network’s ministry training programs in the country.
Historically, Costa Rica has not been one of the strongest countries in Multiplication Network’s Latin America Hub. “But little did I know what a remarkable experience this visit would turn out to be,” Ben says.
The group traveled to a garage in the small town of Tacares. This new church plant is only six weeks old. It began when an older couple, Leonel and Janette—members of the mother church about five miles away—felt that their town also needed a church. They went through our ministry leadership courses so they could be trained in how to start a healthy church.
“What we encountered upon arriving was both unexpected and beautiful: weightlifting equipment, a fishing boat marked with the words ‘Tattoo Fishing,’ and a small wooden pulpit—an ordinary space now being used for something extraordinary,” reports Ben.
The first new believers in this young church are Janette and Leonel’s three sons and their families. One of their sons, Braulio—a tattoo artist, welder, electrician, and violinist—and his partner Selene, also a welder, are now preparing to be married after 20 years together. Their teenage daughter had been faithfully praying for them.
Their youngest son, Michael is now experiencing healing and restoration after several difficult years. Their third son, Roberto, a forklift operator at a brewery, shared how his relationship with his wife has grown stronger since coming to Christ.
This church is especially focused on reaching the youth of Tacares. While there is no overt opposition to the Gospel, the town is known for drug-related challenges. Many residents work in agriculture, sugar cane fields, factories, or attend the local university.
Despite Costa Rica’s growth and stability, the need for the Gospel remains great. We praise God for the willingness of local leaders to recognize this need and faithfully take action to reach their communities.