In Memory of Rev. Rafael Bonilla

​ The American Baptist Churches of Vermont and New Hampshire are grieved by the loss of the Rev. Rafael Bonnilla, pastor of First Hispanic Baptist Church of Manchester NH. Pastor Bonilla succumbed to COVID-19 in the early morning hours of November 24th. He had been pastor of First Hispanic for close to 40 years after his arrival from his native El Salvador. He was born in Gautajiagua, Morazan El Salvador on September 25th, 1942. He attended Bible college in El Salvador in preparation for his many dedicated and sacrificial years of ministry.

Pastor Bonilla was a gifted evangelist, often on the sidewalks and in the homes of Manchester neighborhoods. He pioneered Spanish language Christian radio in the greater Manchester area. Over the years he led mission trips to El Salvador, Nicaragua, and Guatemala. He was a gifted and compassionate pastor.

Pastor Bonilla is survived by his wife, Ana Rosa, and his three children: his daughter, Delmy, and his two sons, Oscar and Jonathan.  

Rev. Isabel Rivera and Rev. Dale Edwards officiated at a service celebrating Pastor Bonilla's life and ministry for family members on December 3rd at First Hispanic Baptist Church in Manchester, NH.