Central American Mission (1890–1975)

The Central American Mission began in 1890 with a simple aim: to make Christ known and to strengthen His church across Central America. From early gospel meetings to long-term church planting, the mission emphasized preaching, discipleship, and training believers to handle Scripture carefully and to live it publicly. Its workers often served with few comforts, learning languages, traveling difficult roads, and enduring sickness and uncertainty so that communities could hear the good news and local congregations could mature.

C. I. Scofield

C. I. Scofield, remembered widely for editing the Scofield Reference Bible, helped launch the mission during a period when global evangelism depended on perseverance rather than convenience. Scofield’s influence reflected a conviction that the Word of God must be taught clearly and that ordinary believers, grounded in biblical truth, can become steadfast witnesses. His legacy within the mission was not merely academic; it pressed toward prayer, evangelism, and the patient building up of churches led by trained local believers.

CAM Intentional (December 11, 1975)

On December 11, 1975, the mission adopted the name CAM Intentional, marking a decisive step as long-standing work in Central America widened into Latin America. The change signaled more than a revised letterhead. It expressed renewed obedience to Christ’s command: “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit” (Matthew 28:19). It also acknowledged God’s providential leading beyond familiar borders—into new cities, cultures, and needs—without abandoning the mission’s core commitments.

Legacy and Christian Virtues

The story of this transition highlights courage that is quiet but real: showing up year after year, serving when results are slow, and valuing faithfulness over recognition. It reflects love that sacrifices and hope that refuses to yield to hardship. As Scripture asks, “How can they believe in the One of whom they have not heard? … And how can anyone preach unless they are sent?” (Romans 10:14–15). CAM Intentional’s widened reach called believers to send, to go, and to keep pointing people to Christ, so that more churches might be strengthened and more lives made new by the gospel.