Redland Baptist Church and Bible Baptist Church MINISTRY PARTNERSHIP
The city of Patate is located in the mountainous region of Ecuador, at an altitude of 7,200 feet above sea level. It enjoys a spring-like climate, and since it lies on the equator, it doesn't have distinct seasons, meaning the temperature remains constant year-round, around 70°C.
Patate has a population of 13,000 inhabitants, and, as in the rest of the country, the predominant religion is a mixture of Catholicism, idolatry, and indigenous traditions that have placed Mary, rather than Jesus, as the path to God. This has led to a profound spiritual blindness among the people, making the preaching of the gospel of Jesus Christ more urgent than ever.
Redland Baptist Church of Wetumpka Alabama and Bible Baptist Church in Patate Ecuador, by God’s sovereign grace and mercy, have forged an international ministry and mission partnership. Since 2024, our congregations have been connected by prayer, service, teaching, and many personal friendships. In obedience to the Great Commission,(Matt.28:19-20) RBC is blessed to fulfill Christ’s work in partnership with our brothers and sisters at Bible Baptist Church.
Redland Baptist Church has been supporting the city's only Baptist Church, pastored by Brother Ángel Villacrés, who has been serving God there for the last 23 years. The city of Patate is surrounded by mountains and volcanoes, making its geography quite unique and driving a challenge on winding roads that cut through the mountains to reach different communities.
Our missions team was able to share the Word of God in three of these communities. We covet your continued prayers and financial support for future mission efforts and the Biblical Training School for area pastors that will begin in 2026.