The End of our Mission trip to Brazil!!!!

Well it was an amazing time for us. I did not know what to expect from this trip and did not know what we were going to be doing for sure until we arrived there. Pr. Edison and Pr. Rutinha Queiroz were the key for our time over there and they did an excellent job. The families that were going to take care the group were awesome. We did have lots of time with the Cortezani's, they always invited us to be with them and it was awesome time to know them. My work was to be a facilitator for the group and it was awesome to have other people helping me with that. I did lots of counseling, lots of helping at the church office, lots of time with people that needed someone to smile or encouraged them. I had lots of time with the leadership of the church, never trying to impose any ideas or comments that were not wise but always having my arms around them. It is a big church with a huge heart. Problems??? Lots!!! When you are dealing with people problems will come with it, but I know and saw people that want to serve our Lord with excellency and that was pretty important to me. Pr. Bryan and I did participated in the worship team. I do not have the talents that Pr. Bryan has but God uses the small ones for His glory and I am sure He did used me. I had lots of time with Pr. Rutinha, we went to her house and other places to talk. She needed and I was there to listen and encourage her. It shows me that we need to cover our Pastor and family with lots of prayer. It is not easy to be the leaders of the church because that is so much expectations that will not be fulfilled and with that lots of problem that will come. My husband and I also were the translators for the group. Pr. Nolte preached 3 or 4 times and I believe the last Sunday over there when I saw the two pastor ( Pr. Edison and Pr. Nolte), that I so much love and care about together at the church I was in awe with our Lord, because He is the One that break the barriers and accepts was as we are and also put two worlds together for His glory. I also cannot forget my husband's job. He was the encourage person for me, he was the helper to keep me going, he was the best and handsome translator for Pr. Nolte and I am very proud of him. As family we are extremely blessed and in awe with our Lord and Savior Jesus. To you we say thank you!!! You were there with us, you helped and encouraged all of us with your kind words and prayers. Thank you very much for all you have done for the success of this awesome work. Cleide and family

Nearing the end

Connie and Pastor Willie

Amanda, Connie, Cleide
The whole team!

Hello everyone! With only a couple days left for this trip I am reflecting on the experiences that I have had. I have enjoyed the time that we have spent with our host family Andre, Ly, and Marina. They have all been huge blessings over the past couple of weeks. It's amazing how comfortable we are with them and how much we feel at home in their house. Through conversation with them about their prayers of inviting people from another country into their home and our prayers of coming to another country we realized that God has something huge planned and this is only the beginning. I am also glad that I was able to experience the 3 different levels of the Cena mission. The people who work with this ministry are amazing and have a love for people that you can feel as soon as you step foot into any one of their buildings. It's been very interesting getting to hear different stories from the other people on our team; Stories about their host homes and their individual experiences on this trip. This trip has definitely shown me that God is a lot bigger than I gave him credit for. He brings people together for reasons that we will only understand as time goes by. I know that this will not be the last trip to Brazil and I am very excited to see Gods plan unfold!! Thanks again to everyone for their prayers and support over the past two weeks!

With love,

Amanda

Some Images From the Trip

Where Willie and I are staying.
The church, First Baptist of Santo Andre.The Cortezani Family, minus Vagner.
First meal, Brazilian Barbecue
More to come...

Overwhelm

On Monday we visited the Aurora Street mission for Cena. I was unable to even put into words our experience in "Crackland" in Sau Paulo. It is located in the center of Sao Paulo. Crackland is an understatement. The area, especially after dark, makes the Tenderloin District look like Beverly Hills. Unless you have seen it, I do not think we in America can comprehend it. Not only is the concentration of prostitutes, transvestites, and drug addicts in unimaginable proportions, there really is not any assurance of protection from those responsible to "protect and serve" (as we say in America. Pastor John, the director of the mission, is fearless. Amanda and I, on the other hand, were in a very different environment that we have ever been in. The others in the group had different advantages than Amanda and I. We are not tall, we are not men, we do not at all look or dress Brazilian, nor do we speak Portuguese. We both were feeling a little vulnerable because of this. There were moments when things were spoken, which we did not understand, and so we didn't know what to expect. We were not prepared for the areas through which we would be led. It was this unknown factor that made us fearful. It was less because of the environment (although that was a bit uncomfortable for us). Pastor John is fearless. He has earned street credit there to the point that he can walk by a dealer, reach into his pocket and take any paraphernalia that is there. He would walk by people and knock cigarettes out of their hands. I can see why he is respected, because he has certainly earned it. But he has not earned it by just being tough, he has earned it by loving the people. We had a time of powerful prayer in the center of everything. Prior to this we visited the daycare. My heart was breaking at the stories of these children who have no other options but to live in this environment. The center is beautiful, and full of love. We prayed for the center, and the workers there. They have space for 50 children, but only have 10 because of funding. I have posted a link to a video on my facebook page. I think of how I felt as an adult just passing through, I cannot imagine being a child. Then, to grow up with that being the only thing you know...heartbreaking.

Everything about the experience yesterday was good. It was hard, but good. It made me more appreciate God. On a personal level, I am in awe of how much He loves me. During the time I was there, I was thinking of how much I wanted to come back to my "Casa de Brazil." How much God knows me, and cares that I am already out of my comfort zone here. But, He is so gracious and loving that He specifically placed us in a family where we feel at home. So, after a day of feeling unsafe, fearful, overwhelmed with compassion and sorrow for suffering, and being tired from it all, He gave us this wonderful host family who represents His loving arms that say, "It's ok, you're home now."

For those who we saw yesterday, my heart breaks that they do not enjoy this luxury. It is God's desire that we all have someone to receive us with open arms that give us comfort and love. Another thing, the smell. Yes, we have areas in America that are poor, and the aroma is not good. However, add to that piles and piles of rotting garbage, a polluted river running through, and the smell of urine x1000, plus other smells I have yet to identify (and would prefer not to). Here's something to ponder...Is that how our sin smells to God? When we went through areas that smelled stronger than others, I had to turn my face away. Is that what it is like for God? But God offers the cleansing waters of redemption in Christ. Just like the showers offered to the men received into the mission, to wash off the effects of the environment they are in, so that they can rest; God provided all of mankind with the opportunity to be cleansed in grace of Christ's sacrifice, so that we can see His face.

To everyone who has been praying, who shared resources, and who have been with us in our journey, thank you. You are all in this experience with us, and it is because of you that Amanda and I are able to make connections and represent all of us (you included) to the people of Brazil.

Deus te abençoe. Tchau

The Heart of Jesus

They call it "crackland". Certainly the reasons are obvious. We had been told that this particular area of Sao Paulo - Aurora, meaning light - was the very worst area of the world's third largest city. Walking through an area of several square blocks at 5:00pm was somewhat eye-opening but not so terribly shocking. There were obviously some "questionable types" about and buildings and streets looking a bit shabby. Not, however, much different than many urban core areas of a major city, and in fact very many bustling shops and businesses. John, the director of the ministry called CENA, told us, "when we come back here in an hour you will see hundreds and hundreds of people opening using drugs as well as overt prostitution of every sort." He was correct. He identified where the major drug sellers operate, where the female prostitution ends and only male prostitution operates, and then where the transvestite prostitution operates, and so on.

Upon our return to walk the very same streets, the shops were now a continuous wall of roll down metal doors. Except for the now darkened signs above you would not even know that there were shops there at all! As we stopped at a street corner - now simply walking down the middle of the streets - and peered down the street we were about to walk down, our friend Edson pulled my arm and pointed out the name of the street we were walking in: literally, "The Way of the Heart of Jesus"! And while heavily armed and numerous police sit at outposts but do not respond at all, the flicker of crack pipes is everywhere and people wander about zombie-like. Lumps who are actually people wrapped in filthy blankets are spread around by other piles which are the days garbage.

"The Heart of Jesus" - broken by the darkness. But this is where the "Heart of Jesus" would be, and is. It seems as though this city has decided these hundreds and thousands of people are a lost cause and are in fact non-persons. Through this we walked, following a man alternating between fearless confrontation and tender compassion. He kept saying throughout the afternoon and evening, "If the church is not in the community, then it's not being the church."

The "Heart of Jesus" certainly breaks over the pain and suffering of his creation - and ours?

Pastor Willie

Unlikely opportunities

Wonderful Sunday. Stroll in the park, and we had the honor of being invited to a birthday party. Boy, do Brazilians know how to celebrate :) I met so many wonderful, beautiful brothers and sisters in Christ today. We have been invited to the countryside on Saturday, and we are really excited. What was fun and seemed complete frivolous entertaining activities, God used for opportunity. The house we are going to is owned by a business owner here in Santo Andre who is trying, in partnership with a few pastors in the area and a couple other business men, to work on a project that involves people in hospitals who need housing after they get out, at least I think that is what he said. Anyways, he was excited to hear that I am a chaplain and is inviting the pastors and businessmen to the countryside house as well, wanting to meet with me and brainstorm some ideas regarding this project they have started. I'm looking forward to seeing exactly what it is, and exactly why God would want to involve me! Tomorrow we are scheduled to go to Cena in Sao Paulo, but that is kind of up in the air. I have come to the conclusion that God has His own plan for each of us while we are here, which for me makes this even more of an adventure! I love that I don't have to stress about a schedule, but wake up each day and then figure out as I go through the day what the plan is. That's pretty much how it is going. Each day there has been an interaction, or an opportunity to meet someone new, and make a new connection. Last night at church, a gentleman came up to me and said his wife has been wanting to do ministry to people in prison. I told him that I have had that opportunity and was able to talk to her and give some encouragement and ideas as to how she can minister in that area. So, pretty much what I am gathering is that God is allowing me to be here, just be myself, and use me as he does anywhere else. I can't think of any better way to be a missionary!

Day 5?

It's already hard to know which day it is on our trip. I am making a short report about Sunday, August 1, which, by the way, was my brother's birthday. We were encouraged to stay home Sunday morning after an incredible night of ministry in which I had the privilege to join in one song during our worship time, How Great is Our God. Cleide joined me as we sang the song in English and Portuguese much like we did at our home church in Fresno before we left for this trip. It was an amazing glimpse of our understanding of heaven on earth, many languages giving praise to God at the same time. Okay, so Sunday evening Willie went to preach at the Nazarene church across town. John "Bud" Klassen and and I went along, Bud to translate into Portuguese and me to try to understand Willie's English and grammar. Pastor Willie did a wonderful job preaching the passage from I Peter 2:9-12 on who we are to God and Bud was amazing translating a sermon for the first time. And believe me, it is no easy task. Their worship team did a great job leading out and included a few songs I was familiar with and two I didn't know that I really liked. I plan to learn them myself and then teach them to our church when I return. The service ended with a baby dedication and then communion. We snag the song Because He Lives while we received the elements and then included an update version in celebration at the conclusion, all grabbing hands and closing up the aisles just like we do at home. Thank the Lord for that connection. Afterward, the fellowship opportunities with some of the people were truly a blessing from the Lord as we interacted on subjects ranging from songs, musicianship and working with individuals in the context of a music team. Many challenges and joys that we experience are universal.

Earlier in the day, we went to a farmer's market called a feira where we got our breakfast, lunch and dinner. What we purchased are called pastel's and reminded me of over-sized hotpockets only made fresh. Kind of like sopaipillas stuffed with meats and cheese. If you're not sure what either are, look them up on google. After we ate we walked to their health club in their neighborhood. All in all it was another great day here in Santo Andre, Sao Paulo, Brazil. Tchau

Spilled Water, Recovered

From Connie:

Like water spilled on the ground, which cannot be recovered, so we must die. But God does not take away life; instead, he devises ways so that a banished person may not remain estranged from him. 2 Samuel 14:14

I think I have felt every emotion possible today; compassion, terror, joy, awe, gratitude, love, frustration, peace, happiness...etc, etc. A lot of interesting new experiences. We started at the local farmer's market in the morning. I LOVE farmer's markets :). The only problem in this one were the chicken heads. Those kind of freaked me out a little, but the people were nice and were entertained by the American who was so fascinated by vegetables! I even made doggie friends...big surprise ;p We had to rush off because of a bit of a breakdown in communication in regards to our trip to Cena, so I hope to go back before we leave.

Hearing about Cena really touched my heart. Where we went was the third level of the program. The first is the mission in the "garbage dump" of Sao Paulo, or otherwise known as "crackland." The second is a farm, where the people receive help with their addiction, etc. The third is the "family house." We were privileged to spend the afternoon with the "father" of the house. In this house, the people are supported so that they once again can enter society, be productive, and live full lives with the power of God. He was so humble, and very compassionate for these people, because he himself had been in that life, and been through the program himself. It was touching to see how God is using this program to take lives spilled on the ground and restore them to overflowing. The residents made us a wonderful lunch, so hospitable.

I think the thing that has captured my heart he most is how much love I have seen here. It is very convicting to me. It makes me wonder...how much to I hold tightly that God wants me to give?

Bryan and Cleide sang How Great is Our God/How Great Thou Art in church at night. The passion with which the congregation sang was deafening. It was beautiful.

After, Amanda and I got invited along with Marina and Fernando (her boyfriend) to go eat Acai. Some of their friends joined us, and we had a great time.

Now, let's talk a little about the driving again....speaking of entertaining the locals...So, as we have already said, people drive crazy here. They have laws, but apparently they're just "suggestions." One example, last night, I was explaining how in America, when you turn left and there is oncoming traffic you have to stop and let the oncoming traffic go first. They were surprised...one of the girls asked me, "Why do you have to do that?" And they were all surprised when we explained that pedestrians have the right of way. It is entertaining for them to see the looks on our faces when they're driving us...

Today, we rest, and are going to a birthday party for Fernando's mother. We are so in love with this place. Each day, I leave a little piece of my heart here.

Observations

Hello everyone! This is Amanda. Sorry I haven't posted anything thus far this trip but hopefully this will catch me up with everyone :) My first impression of Brazil was the traffic. I tried to distract myself with the view of the city from the freeway on the way from the airport to the church, but this was unsuccessful. I took many deep breaths and was able to keep myself from begging to go back home. Haha. My (actual) first impression of Brazil was the welcoming people. As soon as we arrived at the church everyone greeted us and gave us coffee and bread (and so our binge eating through Brazil began). We got to rest a little at the church then we all dispersed and went to our host homes. Our hosts welcomed us into their home immediately, before we even got to their house! We talked briefly in the car and connected instantly. Over the past few days I've seen the love that Brazilians, or the ones I've met anyways, show to everyone. They are extremely generous. We have been told "minha casa e sua casa" multiple times, and they mean it. I've also noticed that they give what they have to those who do not. Of coarse there will always be people in this world who are selfish and keep things for themselves only, but the mentality of almost everyone I've talked to and heard stories from is "why would I buy for only myself what I know my friend does not have". They have a heart for people, and I love it.

Over the past few days I can confidently say that I am in love with Brazil! It's beautiful here and I am so excited to spend the next week exploring more of the city and the hearts of the people! I would like to thank you for your prayers and support for our team as we submerge ourselves in this culture and seek God alongside His people!

Tchau

Amanda

Day Two

Incredible day today. Started with a meeting with Pastor Edison and some of his staff team to discuss and plan our itinerary for the two weeks we are here. You will find out what we are doing each day when you read this blog. (I don't want to spoil the surprise) After the meeting, we took a little tour of their facility. You may find it interesting to note that when you look at a map of the city of Santo Andre, you will find the church right in the middle. In the heart of the city. Coincidence? I think not. See Connie's facebook for pictures of some of what we saw today. Next, we went to lunch. The restaurant was called Tendall Grille, a Brazilian Barbecue. We know it as a Brazilian Steakhouse in Fresno like Samba or Rio. They serve several kinds of meat and keep returning to your table until you are full or finished. Needless to say, we ate plenty. Then, we returned to our host homes to rest for the afternoon. Willie and I are staying with Edson and Edinilsa Florencio Cortezani. They have three children. Two of them are still living at home. Diego, who is 18 and Priscilla, who is 15. Their oldest son, Vagner is 27 and lives in Pirassununga. They are a wonderful family which, I'm sure I will blog more about in the future. This afternoon, for example, Edson was singing Karaoke in the living room. Quite entertaining. I even got in to the act. I know, that surprises you, right? Anyway, we are blessed that they have opened their home to us. Tonight we went back for a meeting with Pastor Edison, Frank Dietz from Operation Mobilization, who happens to live in Sacramento and many business people from the church and community. I will have Willie blog about this later. I left the meeting to give up my seat as people kept coming in. I found Cleide and we ended up in the worship team rehearsal. This was an incredible, worshipful experience. They have excellent musicians and they allowed me to join in and work on songs for Saturday evening's young adult service. I am looking forward to interacting with them more throughout the rest of this trip. We came back to the house around 10:30 and ate dinner. Now I am ready for bed. This was a quick overview of the day from my perspective. Thank you for continuing to pray for us. More to come. Pastor Bryan

First Impressions

This is Connie...Day 1 of our Brazil Adventure has come and gone. Well, maybe it is day 2, I'm not sure if you count the travel. We got in to Sao Paulo this morning around 7:30 a.m. local time, then got settled into our host homes. My first impression of the travel? LONG. On the plane, Amanda and I would wake up after small bouts of sleep (mostly Dramamine induced). We would check to see how much time, hoping maybe we had slept a significant amount, only to find we had 7 hours, then 6, then 5, then I think we stopped counting. But, nevertheless, we made it here. Our (Mine and Amanda's) host family is wonderful. So amazingly hospitable and generous. I had my first Brazilian meal here, and it was amazing. I'm sure that once I pass through the fog of jet lag I'll have more profound things to say, but today was marked by just being thankful for basic needs. We made it safely, got some rest, ate great food, and went to church tonight. And now, time to sleep more. Looking forward to all God has in store for us these next 2 weeks. we have already met some great people, and looking forward to the others God has for us. On tomorrow's agenda, meeting at 10 a.m. then, yep, you guessed it, more food! We're going to go to a Brazilian BBQ place. Oh how I love Brazil :) Blessings and Tchao!

Live Services

Do you want to see what we are doing. There is live services at First Baptist in Santo Andre.

3:00pm every Sunday.

http://www.conexaoprimeira.org.br/Midia/

This is Pastor Bryan. We are just a week away from flying to Sao Paulo, Brazil for a missions trip with our team from Fresno First Baptist Church in Fresno, CA. I am excited to see what God will do in us and through us and to join Him in His work alongside the good people of the First Baptist Church of Santo Andre. The members of the team will be posting throughout our experience and hope that you will pray for us and follow our experiences through this blog. God bless you and we'll see you back here real soon.

Time to Pray!!!

On July 27, this team of seven from Fresno First Baptist Church will be traveling to Sao Paulo, Brazil. For two weeks, they will be serving alongside Pr. Edison and Rutinha Queiroz.

Please pray for the team as they prepare.