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We believe in going with Christians across the Americas to change our world together. LAM works through a global network of Latin-led, Christ-centered partner ministries.

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Costa Rica



Costa Rica

Though headquartered today in Miami, Florida, Latin America Mission was born in Costa Rica and has built a rich legacy there over more than 90 years. LAM's work in Costa Rica ranges from rehabilitating women escaping prostitution, to caring for at-risk children, to theological education, to agricultural development, to camping ministries, among others. The LAM heritage also includes founding what is now one of Central America's premier hospitals.

Costa Rica is a mountainous nation located between Nicaragua and Panama. Though most "Ticos," as Costa Ricans are called, are of Spanish or mestizo origin, roughly 3 percent are the black decedents of 19th-century Jamaican immigrant workers. The nation is predominantly Catholic, though a growing Protestant church makes up 14 percent of the population and Costa Rica is increasingly becoming a missionary sending nation.

Still a largely agricultural country — exporting coffee, bananas, sugar and cocoa — Costa Rica has well developed electronic manufacturing and tourism industries. High literacy rates, low unemployment, and widespread land ownership have yielded a relatively high standard of living for many Costa Ricans.

One of the most stable democracies in Latin America, Costa Rica escaped much of the violent and political turmoil that has plagued other Latin American governments. Since the late 19th century, only two brief periods of violence have marred its democratic development. Costa Rica abolished its army in 1948.

Interested in serving with us in Costa Rica?

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