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| Teodoro and Eugenia |
Today, Roxana and I visited the home of Eugenia Alpízar, the widow of Teodoro Alpízar. Teodoro, the founder and longtime preacher for the Church of Christ in Poró de Grecia, Costa Rica, passed away on January 24, 2025, following complications from surgery to remove his gallbladder. He was a man of great character, known for his strong faith and his dedicated service in the ministry. I had the privilege of meeting Teodoro several times over the years, and he had often asked me to preach at evangelistic campaigns in the church building in Poró. His life was one of faithful service, and he will be greatly missed.
Teodoro was married to Eugenia, his second wife, after having lost his first wife, Sonia, about twenty-five years ago. Eugenia, also around sixty years old, is an entrepreneur, and when we arrived at their home today, we found her deeply devastated by the loss of her husband. We spent almost two hours with her in the living room of their home, listening to her recount the painful last two months of Teodoro’s life. Her grief poured out in tears as she shared the details of his suffering and the frustrations they experienced with the public healthcare system.
Through her tears, Eugenia spoke of her husband with immense love and respect, describing him as a great man, a servant of the Lord, and a devoted husband and father. She shared stories of how Teodoro had always put others before himself, especially the weakest members of the church in Poró. He was a man who sacrificed much for the welfare of others, and her stories painted a powerful picture of his selflessness and unwavering faith.
As we listened, Roxana and I felt deeply moved by her words. We knew there was little we could say to ease her pain in this moment, so we simply listened, offering our presence and support. After about an hour and a half, we assured Eugenia that we would visit again on Thursday, February 6, 2025, Lord willing, to continue offering our support during this time of mourning. We promised to walk alongside her in this journey of grief and healing.
Before we left, I thanked her for sharing such a personal and beautiful testimony about Teodoro. I expressed how deeply encouraged and edified I was to learn more about his life of faith and service. I also took a moment to thank God for her, for allowing us to hear these stories of a man who was truly shaped and used by God, a man who lived for His glory. It was a powerful reminder of the impact one life of faithful service can have.
Please continue to keep Eugenia in your prayers, as well as the church in Poró, as they grieve the loss of their beloved preacher and brother in Christ. We are grateful for your ongoing support as we continue to minister here in Costa Rica.
In Christ,
Carlos and Roxana Ulate
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