In January 1979, Christ saved me from my sins and, in that same year, called me to the ministry. Shortly after, I entered the Pentecostal Bible Institute of Costa Rica (IPHC). It was there that I received one of the greatest privileges of my life: meeting Rev. Elvio Canavesio, the missionary and regional director for Latin America. He was an exceptional man of God, a brilliant communicator, and an extraordinary mentor.
Brother Elvio was more than just my teacher; over time, he became a mentor and a close friend. During those formative years of my Christian life, I had the honor of receiving his guidance. His profound prayer life deeply impacted me; through him, I learned to value the sacred times of fasting and prayer we shared. His consecrated life became my model for service.
Rev. Elvio Canavesio
March 3, 1931 – March 3, 2022
Brother Elvio was present at my wedding to Lilliana in January 1982, and I continued to follow his example throughout the years. I was consistently blessed and edified by his leadership. In 1991, when the Lord called us to the mission field in Guatemala to plant the IPHC work there, Brother Elvio was instrumental in that transition. As our regional director, he became my direct supervisor. What I learned from him during that time was extraordinary: discipline, determination, love for my wife and children, and a mind always ready to learn. I received far more than I ever imagined possible through his leadership. In 1997, the Lord led us to the United States to plant churches. Although our personal encounters became less frequent, Brother Elvio's influence remained alive within me. In 2013, God directed my path to Oklahoma to serve in Hispanic Ministries. There, until the day Brother Elvio went to be with the Lord, I was blessed to spend time with him and his wife, Sister June. I still treasure the moments he would visit me in my office to share the principles and values that shape my ministry today. I deeply appreciate his advice, his prayers, his exhortations, and even his rebukes. They were gems of wisdom that sustain me to this day.
Dr. Luis Avila
Hispanic Ministries
DIRECTOR
I celebrate his memory and give thanks that his legacy continues to bear fruit. Brother Elvio taught me to love God and my family, to love the ministry, and to serve the Lord with sincerity and purity.
