We started planting churches in Santiago in 1975, when we were married. The first one was in a poor section of the city. However, it became apparent that we should plant in the wealthy, upper middle class area of Santiago where there was no evangelical witness. Today more than 23 missions and churches have been planted.
Our mission work has provided wonderful opportunities to spread the gospel – including the period when Alf was chaplain to President Piñera (2010–2013). This role gave Alf enormous access into the world of politics, law-making and the general evangelical, Pentecostal scene within Chile. We have also developed a TV programme called Hazte Cargo and Late, in which we introduce biblical teachings regarding contemporary issues.
Alf and Hilary Cooper - Chile
Call
To pay testimony to the living God and his gospel and the extension of his kingdom in such a way that churches are planted and multiplied throughout Chile and the world
Role
Auxiliary bishop and rector of Trinity Parish Church
More about Alf and Hilary Cooper
Hilary was brought up in a South American Missionary Society (SAMS) home (her parents Anthony and Peggy Barratt were SAMS missionaries) and she and her two brothers and two sisters toured Britain with the famous Picaflores harp and guitar group. When she came to Chile on a holiday in 1974, she met Alf. We were soon married. Alf was brought up in Chile and sent to school in England.
While studying at Bristol University, he came to Christ after investigating various alternative spiritual paths. As a result he went to All Nations Christian College and later joined SAMS as an evangelist and church planter.
Together, we developed church planting strategies alongside the SAMS mission team in Santiago and have spent more than 30 years building up the church we pastor – La Trinidad de Las Condes.
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