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FIELD
After graduating from Nogales Baptist Seminary in 1961, Arnoldo was led to serve God as a pastor in Agua Prieta and Obregon Sonora, Mexico. Seven years later, the Benavides family immigrated to the USA, and Arnoldo entered Southwestern Conservative Baptist College, graduating in 1972. Missions Door appointed him to work at Nogales Seminary in 1972 as a teacher.

Arnoldo and Ofelia have also served as leaders at First Baptist of Nogales, Arizona, and started Bethel Baptist Church in Nogales, Sonora, Mexico. After serving 33 years with Nogales Baptist Seminary and 28 years as Director, Arnoldo resigned the Directorship in 2006. He works part time with Missions Door now and serves as Seminary Extension Program Director.

Ofelia is also an important leader at the seminary, serving as counselor for the female students and supervisor of the cook, kitchen and women’s ministries in local churches.

With courage and enthusiasm Arnoldo and Ofelia prepare seminary students to serve God, provide them with sound training, and encourage them to establish strong churches with a clear missionary vision. They also work to motivate the teachers to be better educational leaders in the Lord’s service.

FAITH
When Arnoldo was a child, a friend invited him to revival meetings at a new Baptist church. On the first night God touched his heart, and he received Jesus Christ as his personal Savior. Ofelia also accepted Christ as a child when a pastor visited her home and presented the way to salvation.

FAMILY
Arnoldo met Ofelia when he was a seminary student, but they lived in distant cities. After a time of writing letters, God blessed their relationship and they were married in 1962 and they now have four children: Gustavo, Arnoldo Jr., David and Arlene.

EDUCATION
B.A. in Education and M.A. in Psychology and Christian Counseling