Peru is a nation with a long Christian history, but many people, especially in urban areas, have limited engagement with the gospel and biblical community. Lima, the capital city, reflects both economic growth and significant inequality, creating opportunities for churches to serve people from many backgrounds. Local churches and ministries are seeking to bring spiritual hope and practical care to communities throughout the city. Through our partnership with John and Abi Thompson, Bay Area will explore how we can come alongside the work God is already doing in Peru.

The population of Peru is around 34,323,000 people, and the primary language spoken is Spanish. The primary religion is Catholicism with about 82% of the population reported as professing Catholics, and of the 103 people groups there are 15 that are unreached.

Data as of May 14, 2026

ABOUT: 
Our greatest passion is helping people know Jesus. Married for nearly 20 years, we’ve traveled the world together and love experiencing new cultures, great food, and good coffee. We are grateful parents to three amazing children—Emma, Grace, and Micah.

Our family planted a multiethnic church in Northeast Atlanta, near where John grew up. John has served as a College & Student Pastor, adjunct professor, and Senior Director of Global Impact at the Agapao Movement, equipping leaders across South Asia. Prior to ministry, he served nearly 12 years in the U.S. Army. Abi was born in Manila, Philippines, and raised in a missionary family, living throughout the U.S., Brazil, and Peru. Growing up in a third-culture environment shaped her deep faith and global perspective, with her formative years spent between the Pacific Northwest and Tampa Bay.

In June 2023, God led our family into a new season, relocating to Lima, Peru as Sparrow missionaries to serve at The Union Church of Lima, where John now serves as Senior Pastor, helping bring renewed life to this historic church.

MISSION:
We are an international, multicultural community that seeks to glorify Jesus, follow His Spirit and give ourselves away.

Join our second year to send a Bay Area team to Peru as we partner with John and Abi Thompson and the Union Church of Lima. Our team will spend mornings visiting strategic ministry partners throughout Lima, including ministries serving women recently released from prison and other under-resourced communities. In the afternoons, we will serve alongside the International Christian School connected with the church through an after-school program.

This trip will help Bay Area explore future partnership opportunities while sharing the love of Jesus through relationships, service, and encouragement.