We’ve Moved!

Late last year we were invited by PAZ leadership to work at the mission headquarters.  After much prayer we decided it was the Lord’s will so once more we packed up everything we own and moved to Santarém.  Only an hour by plane but 3 days by boat on the Amazon River or 3 days by car on the very rough Transamazon “Highway”.  Santarém is a city of about 250,00 people and it sits between the Amazon River and the Tapajos River.  It is called the “Pearl of the Tapajos”.  There are beautiful white sand beaches everywhere, and plenty of jungle to explore!

River front of Santarem

We are thrilled to join this team of about 20 North Americans and 7 Brazilian missionaries. It is truly wonderful to see first hand how PAZ has grown to such a huge presence in this city since the beginning 30 years ago! To see first hand the churches that have been built through a passion to win the lost, and the MDA model of cell groups and one to one discipleship. It is so fun to meet some of the very first Brazilians that were won to the Lord , over 25 years ago, who  are now pastors and church planters!

PAZ has 13 churches in the city with a total of 32 services every Sunday! There are over 4,400 cell groups that meet every week, and 400 river churches. Our family attends the Central Church which has over 15,00 members. I have two pictures posted.  So there is a huge ministry in Santarém and it is a joy to be a part of this!  There are many other ministries within PAZ that I have not listed. If you want to read more then click on the link I have posted.

Central Church

Worshipers at Central Church

Our family has quickly adjusted and we are very busy. Brent is overseeing the new missionaries and language program, working with major partners, and quite a variety of other duties in the mission. Connie is  teaching David his junior year of high school and building friendships, assisting Brent in overseeing the new missionaries,  and we are a part of a strong and growing cell group.

David is having a blast with all of his friends. He is very active in cell group, and he is also ministering in drama and dance. Recently his cell group performed the skit “Everything” several times over one weekend to different groups and 25 people received Christ!! They were all excited! He also finds time to play lots of soccer and go swimming.

Micah is studying nursing in college and is about to finish his first year. He is also teaching English and is very active in cell group and discipleship.

Much to come and I promise to be more faithful with the blog.