Paraguay Asuncion Mission

CULTURAL SUMMARY

The culture of the Asuncion region is deeply influenced by its indigenous Guarani heritage and Spanish colonial history, enriched by diverse immigration. The local cuisine features traditional dishes like sopa paraguaya and chipá, reflecting a blend of indigenous and Spanish flavors. The region's vibrant arts scene includes traditional music and dance forms such as polka paraguaya, celebrated during festivals like Fiesta de San Blas. Festivals and events throughout the year celebrate the diverse cultural and historical influences that shape this dynamic part of Paraguay.

TOPOGRAPHY

The region features rolling hills, the Paraguay River, and the Gran Chaco plain which extends to the west.

CLIMATE

The climate is subtropical, with average summer temperatures around 86°F (30°C) and winter temperatures around 60°F (16°C); the region experiences high humidity and significant rainfall, particularly from November to March, with no likelihood of snow.

LANGUAGES

The two most common languages spoken in the area are Spanish and Guarani.

RELIGIONS

The three largest religious denominations in the area are Roman Catholicism, Evangelical Protestantism, and Jehovah's Witnesses.

INDUSTRIES

Agriculture: Major employers like Agrofértil excel in soybean and corn production, making agriculture a significant industry in the region.

Livestock: Companies such as Frigomerc are key players in beef production and export.

Manufacturing: The region's manufacturing sector is robust, with businesses like Acepar specializing in steel production.

LOCAL EVENTS

The largest local celebrations include the Fiesta de San Blas, the Festival de la Raza, and the Carnaval Encarnaceno, which highlight the region's cultural heritage and vibrant community spirit.

TOURISM

The most common tourist attractions are the National Pantheon of the Heroes, the Casa de la Independencia Museum, and the Asuncion Botanical Garden and Zoo.

RECREATION

Favored recreational activities include exploring the Ñu Guasu Park and visiting the Itaipu Dam, both offering unique outdoor experiences.

MISSION HISTORY

The first member to visit Paraguay was a mission president in Argentina, Frederick S. Williams, in 1939. Church member Samuel J. Skousen introduced the gospel to some of Paraguay's first converts while employed in Paraguay with the United States government. The first convert was baptized in August 1948. An official congregation was organized that same year, in July. Missionaries arrived in 1949. By 1951, two congregations were organized.

An entire group of 200 Nivacle Indians from Paraguay joined the Church in 1980. That year, there were more than 3,000 members in the country. Paraguay's membership has nearly doubled in the past five years.

MISSION GROUPS

These groups are a great way to connect with other families who have missionaries in the same area, reconnect with other missionaries you served with in the past or simply learn more about the mission. Robust membership activity can make these groups truly amazing resources!

Mision Asuncion Los Gavarret 2003-06 Group

Mision Asuncion: President Jeffry A. Allred Group

Mision Paraguay Asuncion Facebook Group

Mision Asuncion Misioneros Retornados! Group

Ex-Misioneros de la Gran Mision Asuncion Group

Ex Misioneros Mision Paraguay Asuncion Group