Erik and Cristy van Oosten have a long history in South America. Currently based in Pucallpa, Peru, Cristy teaches at SAM Academy and Erik serves with SAMAIR Peru, helping keep aircraft flying to some of the most remote corners of the region. Though they serve with Wycliffe Bible Translators, their journey has been closely woven with South America Mission from their early days in Brazil to their current roles in Peru.
Cristy grew up as a missionary kid in Brazil, where her parents served with Wycliffe. Having experienced the joys and challenges of cross-cultural life firsthand, she felt called to return to the mission field to support missionary families through education. She spent years teaching in MK schools across Brazil before meeting Erik, who had come from the Netherlands to serve in Brazil. The two married and later completed linguistics and missiology training together to strengthen their foundation for long-term ministry.
Erik and Cristy served many years at the Ami Training Center in Brazil, where they helped equip Indigenous leaders for Gospel ministry. Between their time in Brazil and Peru, they also served at the JAARS Center in North Carolina, training and mentoring new missionaries.
Today, their ministry in Peru continues to reflect their deep commitment to teamwork, discipleship, and Kingdom impact. Whether through teaching in the classroom or maintaining flight operations that support remote church planting and outreach, the van Oostens live out their calling to bring the hope of Christ to the nations.
To support the van Oostens’ ministry with SAM, please visit Wycliffe Bible Translators to make a donation.
