The invitation to form Mennonite churches in Bolivia emerged out of Mennonite Central Committee’s development work and Bible studies.
In 1971, mission workers from Argentina arrived to help establish churches in rural areas, building on the Bible study groups started by workers with MCC. The first baptism took place in 1975, marking the beginning of the Mennonite Church in Bolivia (IEMB).
From the beginning, predecessor agencies – the Commission on Overseas Mission of the General Conference Mennonite Church, and Mennonite Board of Missions of the Mennonite Church – collaborated in mission work in Bolivia.
At present, support from Mennonite Mission Network helps with leadership development, Christian education and church planting, and subsidizes retreats for children, youth and leaders.
In 2004, Pleasant Valley and Crystal Springs Mennonite churches in Harper, Kan., committed to a long-term relationship with the IEMB involving mutual prayer, inspirational visits, and some joint work. Journey Mennonite Church, South Hutchinson, Kansas, also participated for a number of years, especially in relationship with Samuelito, the church’s daycare center.
In 2025 the IEMB celebrated their 50th anniversary. Long-term church leader Leonidas Saucedo wrote a book that was released at the celebration: Leónidas Saucedo Rodríguez. Iglesia Evangélica Menonita Boliviana: Una historia de Fe, Compromiso, Valentía y Coraje.
