P-70 Brazil Mission Trip

Accepting Christ in Home Visits

2011-07-25T10:57:00.001-05:00

The Americans and Brazilians who are here in Brazil as part of the P-70 Mission project are formed into teams to perform various ministries. One of these teams is the Visitation Team. Sometimes this team is given names and addresses of people to visit by local church leadership or the Evangelism Team; other times they go from house to house throughout a neighborhood to witness to people and invite them to our services and to invite the children to Vacation Bible School.

Yesterday morning was typical of many of our experiences here in Brazil. A Visitation Team composed of myself from PHBC (ParkwayHills Baptist Church), Ann, a wonderful Christian young lady who serves as one of our translators, and Aragão, a local dentist and church leader had been given the names and addresses of three homes to visit. All three homes were Catholic.

At one home, a woman who was 72 years old answered the door. Also at home were her daughter of about 40 and her grandson who was 8. I opened the visit by asking about the family and if they would like to hear about Jesus using the Evangecube. They agreed and when I pulled out the cube, they said that they already had one of those. The boy went to get it. They said someone had given it to them but that they didn’t know how to use it. As I went through the presentation and Ann translated into Portuguese, the boy’s mother took copious notes. When the presentation was completed, Aragão gave his testimony, emphasizing the need to confess sins to God, ask for forgiveness and believe in Jesus. When he asked if they wanted to pray to receive Jesus, all three of them, representing three generations of that family, said they did. After they had prayed, I told them there was one more thing about the cube - the part of the cube that emphasizes the importance of love, prayer, Bible study, fellowship and worship, and witnessing.

Three came to know Christ as a result of that visit. In the team’s next visit a Mother and her two children accepted Christ, and at the third house a husband and wife did also. Not every visit we have made has resulted in a decision to accept Jesus, but a great number do. There is a Great Awakening in Brazil, and PHBC members are blessed by being able to observe it and cooperate with God in His work in this country, where people are desperate to hear the gospel and respond to it.

Submitted by Glenn Sampson, Volunteer American Missionary from ParkwayHills Baptist Church, Plano Texas

Brasil 2011, Sunday, 07.24, Day Eleven

2011-07-24T13:52:00.004-05:00

REUNION: Both teams have returned to Montes Claros, actually arriving here in the wee hours of the morning on Saturday - 3:30 am. We went straight to bed for a long morning of much needed sleep in this cool, mountainous clime - then, at 11:00 am, breakfast for all was served at Pastor Jairos' home. Fresh fruit, eggs, bread and cheese. The Mango was delicious. The fellowship divine.

Next came Saturday afternoon, which marked our first break since arriving in Brasil. The Americanos went to a large Mall - and many of the young people and ladies enjoyed shopping, looking about for sales, and proclaiming, "But... It was such a GOOD DEAL!!!" About which I wondered. :-)

Pastor Nildo & Pastor Brad Martin

Saturday night we continued with our 'pre-crusade rally' formula, by setting up a large stage in a vacant lot, just off a busy street called, "Avenida Esteves Rodriguez." Many young people came, along with members of a sister Baptist Church, which is also in Montes Claros named, Igreja Batista de Gallilee." The Pastor of this church, Pastor Nildo, is a very good man and his church is helping us to sponsor Jairos' church here. Pastor Nildo is also the President of the Association of Baptist Churches here in Montes Claros, and I was pleased to talk with him and encourage him with the importance of Jairos' model to reach this upscale, young neighborhood of Montes Claros' west side with the gospel. Something that is quite different than the Baptist model of recent past. I said this is important for 2 reasons, 1.) Because these people are just as lost as those who are of lesser means and education, and 2.) because the base of support that this kind of church will yield will help fund the work to the outer regions of Minas Gerais, as well. He understood. (Pictured above is Pastor Brad Martin & Pastor Nildo)

Speaking of Pastor Brad, I am so pleased to have him with us. Last night I asked him to preach - and he did a wonderful job telling the story of the paralytic man who was brought to Jesus by his friends. He commended his friends in this story for their determination and their stepping out. He encouraged us ALL to do whatever it takes for us to bring others to Jesus, and, for us not to be gripped with our own paralysis of sin - those things that bind us and keep us from stepping out. He did a wonderful job.

Continue to pray for us as we minister in this city of Montes Claros - that we might "finish strong." I am missing you all - but grateful to hear things are well - and looking forward to a great day on Sunday, July 31, when I return.

Till then ... Bênçãos em Cristo,

Pastor Sam

Children Hear about Jesus

2011-07-22T14:51:00.002-05:00

Winding bus rides, beans and rice, VBS, revival. All of these things describe our trip in Brazil. But these are what keep me coming back…

This being my third time to travel with P-70 to Brazil, I have been blessed to experience so many things! Today, in the city of Itacarambi, we got to see the Lord work in a big way as the kids multiplied… and multiplied… and multiplied in our morning VBS. Over 250 children were able to hear about Jesus. As some of you may know, I am moving to Indonesia on Sunday, to work at a school for missionary children, which means leaving this trip early. Although this makes me sad, I know that the Lord will continue to work through our wonderful team and I cannot wait to return next summer to work again with these smiling faces.

Written by Lauren Irons

Life Transformation through the Gospel

2011-07-21T10:04:00.002-05:00

It’s 4:05pm in Dallas and we are boarding for what will be a sixteen-hour trip through Miami to Belo Horizonte, Brazil. We exit the plane and once through customs walk out to a bustling city of life. Quickly, however, we have found ourselves away from the comforts of home and in the newness of the Portuguese language everywhere.

This is my first time to travel to Brazil - though I’ve traveled from Vietnam to Iraq to Sudan in my lifetime. The lack of drinkable water, no air conditioning and hectic traffic are very familiar to me. However, the energy and spiritual excitement of the people is new. I have been amazed at how powerfully the Spirit moves among the people of Brazil.

My favorite memory from this week has been seeing children, youth and adults all stepping up into service. At every new place and opportunity I see a youth holding a guitar and leading worship, carrying a load speaker announcing our outreach activities, or smiling brightly while making a child a balloon animal. The Gospel has not reached the towns like Itacarambi, where we are now evangelizing an I walk with a refreshed spirit following the visitation team specifically targeting family homes and the evangelism team blanketing neighborhoods with the Gospel through the Evangecube.

It is so powerful for me to see people like Eduardo and Maria responding. The Brazilians carefully document each house number and response of need. Some, like Maria, hunger for a Portuguese Bible, which normally is only kept when borrowing from someone. Others ask for a visit in the days to come so that someone may further share the Gospel in their living room or front porch. Greatest, still, are the ones like Eduardo whom pray to receive Christ because the Spirit of God through Jesus Christ has move is great power.

The need is great in Itacarambi, but the power of God is greater in advancing the Gospel through transformation one life after another!

Nathan Bogue

Nathan is the Director of Aid Sudan in Dallas, Texas, He is an experienced missionary to many parts of the world, and we are grateful to have him with us. ParkwayHills has a partnership with his ministry to Sudanese refugees in the Dallas area. Nathan is a graduate of Reformed Seminary in Jackson MS.,, and a member of 1st Baptist Church of McKinney, where he serves on their Missions Committee.

Seeing God Move in Brazil - Through the Years

2011-07-20T12:38:00.003-05:00

Oi from Itacarambi, Brazil!

My name is Danny Hobson. This is my 5th year to participate in the mission trip to Brazil with ParkwayHills.
I am a member of the Construction team that is led by Dave Davenport. Most years we have built benches for the churches. This year more so than ever, the phrase “Be Flexible” has been important. Logistics can be an issue in an area like this but God can take these challenges and bring true blessings.

At ParkwayHills, I teach the third grade class with Donna Gill. This year, due to supply issues, I “had” to help with VBS. It doesn’t help my tough guy image, but I enjoy working with the young kids. It’s hard to communicate verbally due to my limited Portuguese but easy to show them that I am here because God loves me and that God loves them too.

Vacation Bible School

Since this is my 5th time down, I have worked on all of the construction projects. On the first trip, we worked on the foundation of the church in Nova Horizonte. Even though we were busy, there was time in the evenings to meet and play with the kids in the town. Last year we were able to attend the dedication of that church building. Words can’t describe the emotions of seeing the dedication in the building that we worked on and seeing the people sitting on the benches we had constructed. The most important thing for me, was that those little kids that we played with on the first trip are growing up and were sitting there on the benches and hearing God’s word. We pray that those children will stay close to God and be the future leaders of the churches that ParkwayHills is working with.

At work in Brazil

Each year I look forward to seeing the people that we have met in the years past. Nothing is more uplifting after a long flight and bus ride than to see the faces of old friends that are there to greet us when we arrive.

I know one of my concerns was “what happens when we leave?” The pastors, (Resgate) VBS workers, the support team, all people that have become our friends welcome us each year. They don’t stop working after we Americanos leave. God is doing great things in Brazil and I am blessed to be a part of this.

Deus Abencoe,

Danny Hobson

Vacation Bible School 2011 in Minas Gerias, Brazil

2011-07-18T21:13:00.006-05:00

With the rapid growth of P70, this year was particularly challenging to prepare for VBS. But, with the help of many friends from Parkway Hills and First Baptist Ft. Worth, we were able to prepare materials for over 1200 kids – and God has been faithfully bringing them forward each day!

Our morning VBS works as a three-day rotation as the children have recreation time each day, and we share the gospel through puppet stories and crafts. They are learning who Jesus is, and why He had to die on the cross; Jesus is their friend, and wants to have a personal relationship with them; and even though they are young, they can share Christ with others and become “Fishers of Men.”

I wish each of you could witness our teens and young adults as they become the hands and feet of Jesus – not only are they making a lasting impression on these children, but their lives will be changed forever as well.

There are times that Satan creeps in – making us wonder if what we are doing here really makes a difference…but when I look into the eyes of these beautiful children, I can’t imagine not coming here…. anything that we can do to help these kids find salvation is worth the effort – and it is a joy and a privilege to serve.

So to everyone who made the 4,000 plus salvation bracelets and cards, who punched holes in plates, tied fish on string, bound coloring books, verse packets, and on and on… thank you for all your help – and please know that your efforts are being used for God’s kingdom here in Brazil. Deus Abencoe!

Debbie Irons

Debbie Irons

(written by Debbie Irons)

Brazil P-70 Mission Trip 2011 Itinerary

2011-07-07T15:40:00.009-05:00

The itinerary for the Brazil P-70 Mission Trip 2011. See the mission trip map for a view of where the mission trip goes.

Date	Time	Destination
July 14	1:55pm	Arrive at DFW airport 2 hours before departure
July 14	3:55pm	DFW to Miami AA flight 484
July 14	11:15pm	Miami to Belo Horizonte AA flight 991
July 15	8:15am	Arrive in Belo Horizonte
July 15	10:30am	Bus ride from Belo Horizonte to Montes Claros
July 19	10:00am	Bus ride from Montes Claros to Itacarambi
July 23	8:00am	Bus ride from Itacarambi to Montes Claros
July 27	8:00am	Montes Claros to Belo Horizonte
July 27	9:50pm	Belo Horizonte to Miami AA flight 992
July 28	6:50am	Miami to Dallas AA flight 495
July 28	8:55am	Arrive at DFW airport

Mission Trip 2010 Video

2010-08-12T11:43:00.005-05:00

Watch a video of the Brazil Mission Trip 2010.

Thanks to all who served and those who prayed for this mission trip.

Day 11 - Heading Home

2010-07-28T17:32:00.005-05:00

Heading Home

Sorry not to keep the updates coming, but we have been secluded in the mountains of Minas Gerias in a small town called Rubelita for the past few days. We saw God move in a powerful way as over 100 people made decisions for Christ in this small town.

After two weeks of exciting and fruitful ministry we are heading home. We saw hundreds make decisions for Christ and the need for at least three new churches to plant based on those decisions. May God receive all the glory for His work through His people.

We are sitting in the Belo Horizonte airport waiting on our flight to Miami. Then on to the great state of Texas. Pray for safe travel and wonderful reunions with out families.

Blessings.

Jim Thomas

Day 6 - Porteirinha (Day 2)

2010-07-23T09:09:00.005-05:00

Porteirinha- Day 2

What a hectic, but great day in Porteirinha. School is still in session (which was a surprise since students are usually on winter break when we come). Since the majority of our work occurs using the local school, this proved to be a challenge. Leading VBS with several hundred high school students wanting to talk to Americans is very difficult. Nevertheless, we felt led to embrace instead if ignore. While part of our team led in normal activities, Pastor Jim, Chris Davenport, and our worship team arranged with the school principal to host a rally with the students. We led in worship and presented the gospel to around 150 teenagers. Many of those students came back to the evening rally where we saw many people make decisions for Christ. Please pray for tomorrow as we continue to minister in Porteirinha and love people for Jesus. God bless.

Jim Thomas

Day 5 - Good Bye Sao Francisco

2010-07-22T09:12:00.011-05:00

Good Bye Sao Francisco

In the previous blog it was mentioned that the second night in Sao Francisco (SF) was the largest evangelical rally in the 130 year history of the town. Now it is the second largest! Our final night in SF was outstanding. We saw 70 people make decisions for Christ on the second night and as many or more make decisions for Christ on the final night. As a result of the number of decisions (the town only had 30 people in the local Baptist church), the Brazilian Baptist leaders are committed to start two new churches in SF. Praise the Lord!

We held our first rally in Porteirhina tonight. Porteirhina is a city of over 30,000. The rally was held at magnificent town square. Many of the town's people came out to hear the Americans and the Brazilian team. One of our team members led two men to Christ and they in turn shared their new faith with two friends and led them to Christ.

There is a statue of Christ the Redeemer overlooking the town (like in Rio de Janiero). Tonight the people were encouraged that the real Jesus was looking over this town and this Jesus was not made of stone, but was risen and alive and wanted to give them new life.

Please pray for our team as we prepare to start VBS and visitation in this new city tomorrow. Also pray that many will come out to the evening rally tomorrow night to hear the gospel.

More soon. Gloria O Deus!

Jim Thomas

Day 4 - Sao Francisco, Breakthrough!

2010-07-20T16:03:00.003-05:00

Breakthrough!

There was a spiritual breakthrough in the city of Sao Francisco yesterday (day 3 of our time here). It began that afternoon as one of the members of FBC Ft. Worth shared the gospel during an afternoon rally and many came to faith in Christ. With few from the city attending the evening service the night before, hopes were high that more would come last night. Praise the Lord that many from the town came to the service which ended up being the largest evangelical rally in the 130 year history of the town. After the message about half the crowd gave their hearts and lives to Jesus!

Tonight is the last evening rally in Sao Francisco. Pray that more would come to faith in Christ. Pray that the Word of God would be proclaimed boldly. Pray that Jesus would receive all the honor and praise. Your prayers are sustaining us and mean more than you know.

Tomorrow: On to town number 2 of 3.

Jim Thomas

Day 3 - Sao Francisco, Preach Christ!

2010-07-19T13:48:00.009-05:00

Preach Christ!

Day 2 in Sao Francisco proved challenging as our visitation team and VBS team invested in the lives of the community. This community is a new venture for the P-70 project and the first time in far west Minas Gerais. There is a small Baptist church here of around 30 members, but the town is run by the catholic priest and those outside Catholicism are not welcome. This reality has closed some doors of ministry, but God is bigger than such things and we have already seen spiritual walls come down. Here are some highlights:

VBS attendance grew from 75 yesterday to more than 90 children today.
We travel to smaller neighborhoods in the afternoons. Yesterday around 200 children came out for an afternoon VBS.
Though few from the town came to the first evening service, many have come to faith through personal visitation and the afternoon rallies.
We were provided an hour radio broadcast where Pastor Jim preached. This is the main radio station reaching over 50,000 people. Later that morning one of the visitation teams said a girl approached them saying she had heard the Americans on the radio and wanted to receive Christ as her Savior.

We praise God for all he is doing. Please continue to pray that spiritual strongholds will come down and that Jesus will be glorified in this city. Pray for this evening's rally. Pray for the community to come, hear, and respond to the gospel. Pray that Christ will be preached in all we say and do! Amen and Amen!

Jim Thomas

Day 2 - Minas!

2010-07-17T16:45:00.008-05:00

We have arrived safely in Minas Gerais Brazil. We met some of our Brazilian friends from Rio at the Belo airport and are now traveling north to Sao Francisco for the first night's rally. It seems to be mission season in Minas as we met two other US mission groups, from Miami, OK and Joplin, MO, on the flight from Dallas. We stopped for lunch at a truly Brazilian restaurant and ate till full. Wonderful meat and fruit! Pray for continued safety and a wonderful first night sharing the gospel of Jesus.

Jim Thomas

July 2010 - Off to Brazil - Day 1

2010-07-17T16:39:00.004-05:00

Our group of 23 missionaries gathered this afternoon at DFW in departure for Minas Gerais, Brazil. After 1 1/2 hours waiting on a repair to our plane, we arrived in Miami in time to make the final boarding call for Belo Horizonte. We are scheduled to land in Belo around 8:15am before trekking toward north Minas. Everyone is good of spirit and excited with the adventure. More updates and pictures to come.

Jim Thomas

Brazil MissionTrip 2009

2009-07-27T11:42:00.003-05:00

See the video presented in the Sunday morning worship service at ParkwayHills Baptist church the Sunday after a mission team returned from the Brazil Mission Trip 2009.

Click here to see the video.

Mission Trip Video Drama

2008-08-13T12:50:00.002-05:00

A drama was presented in the Sunday morning worship service at ParkwayHills Baptist church the Sunday after the mission team returned from the Brazil Mission Trip 2008. The drama was used to present the gospel during the Brazil P-70 mission trip 2008. The drama was presented at the ParkwayHills Worship Service on July 27, 2008.

Click here to view the drama.

Brasil - Day 14, "Home - to never be the same"

2008-07-23T20:52:00.002-05:00

I do not know how this can be so, but it is... for this year's trip to Brasil was - once again - the best mission trip we have taken to this region - EVER. When God puts things together they are something else, and God certainly put this year's mission trip to Minas Gerais together - including the team, the city's we visited, the Brazilians with whom we worked, the funds, your prayers, and... the results, which will last into eternity.

We began the "long journey home" on Sunday morning (07.20.08) by way of visiting one of the city's and churches we will work with next year. The city is named, Indihabira (pronounced as "In Die a Bira"), and there we had a brief but meaningful service and lunch, exploring next year's possibilities. The city sets alongside a range of mountains that slope gently up and away from the town, and are separated by verdant pastures and meadows. Horses and other livestock graze along the hillside, and in this very clean, cozy town we plan to offer next year a VBS, Sport's Activities, a Medical Clinic and evening worship and evangelistic services - just as we did this year.

The most amazing thing about this whole operation (the P70 church planting and strengthening initiative) is what I must call, "God's timing," so evident in every way. For everything about this region and our experience - including the people, economy, pastors, churches, the movement of God's Spirit, and even the municipal and governance structures - are ripe for a great harvest of souls and new churches. It is the most amazing thing I have witnessed in all of my ministry life and a true blessing to be a part of it all.

On Monday we spent a 'relaxing day' at a country retreat center called, Hotel Fazenda Eldorado, where many enjoyed horseback riding, relaxing around a pool, jogging, hiking, and the gorgeous scenery - either from a hammock on the porch or through a walk around the compound. The place, which is set in what seems to be the middle of nowhere, was a far cry from our past 10 days but a blessing for us all. Before loading the bus that evening we sat on a deck overlooking the river and shared about our days. There were tears of joy as we expressed what these days had meant to us all.

Then, the journey home!

Through the night we bused approx. 800 kilometers to Rio de Janeiro, where we enjoyed a bit of 'sight-seeing' and shopping while waiting on our evening flight home. From Rio to Sao Paulo to DFW, we did just that - arriving home this morning (07.23.08) at 6:00 am, exhausted but full from a 'journey' that had meant so much to us all.

So we thank you for your prayers and your support. It was an amazing 14 days, and none of us - neither the team nor the people of the places we visited - will ever be the same.

Deus te Abencoe, indeed

Pastor Sam

Mission Trip Photos

2008-07-23T13:46:00.007-05:00

More photos (click here)...

Written by Hannah Lewis

2008-07-23T09:16:00.000-05:00

These past few days have been a great experience for me.I have learned so much on this trip.Not only have I learned more about God but I have learned about these kids and how they live.VBS has been going really good. After a long morning of teaching VBS we would go out to other towns and have a miniature VBS with a group of different kids. It was a lot of work but I’m really happy I came to Brazil. This trip has been …words cant describe.These days have really shown me no mater were you are or what language you speak you can always share the love of God-Hannah Lewis

Brasil - Day 10, "Friday in Mato Verde"

2008-07-18T10:41:00.004-05:00

The town awakens slowly on Friday's as if anticipating what is soon to come, which is, "Market Time!" This is when all the farmers and vendors from the surrounding areas arrive to market their wares, trade, and talk. For the young, it is a 'festa' (fiesta). For the old, a time to watch and remember.

The weather over the last several days has been perfect. Cool nights and mild days (sorry Texas). I ache to open my windows at night - which is quite a change from Curral de Dentro where I was so very cold - but the mosquitoes will not allow it. It is my sweet Norte Amercano blood, I suppose. Either way, I represent to these pesky things a new opportunity, and they seem to glory in it, so.... I keep my windows closed at night. Daytime? All is fine.

Today is the last day for our Vacation Bible School here and this afternoon we will travel to the surrounding villages for the last time. Tonight, we will hold our final public service in Mato Verde, where we saw God move in a marvelous way last evening. many decisions were made for Christ and the service, itself, was a bit of heaven on earth. Tomorrow we dedicate the new sanctuary of the Baptist Church here with a formal worship service, then, in the afternoon we will travel to a nearby village for a service and meal with another church. We are all tired, but in a good way.

If you are reading this and from the Parkwayhills church family, remember to pray - not only for us - but for our youth, their sponsors, and Jason and Ashley as they travel to Florida for camp. I fully expect God to speak to these young people while away - and can't wait to hear what He will do in this exciting and excellent venue.

I am - and will continue - praying for all of you back home. You remain in my thoughts - and I love you and miss you greatly.

Deus te Abencoe

Pastor Sam

Written by Laura Terrell

2008-07-17T17:09:00.001-05:00

Hey everybody! Betcha wish you were here… we just had some seriously good fried chicken. It was probably walking around sometime yesterday. Other than that, there’s an after-lunch push up contest between Jerry Lewis (team USA) and the biggest Brazilian they could conjure up (needless to say, we win). This is a follow up to yesterday’s arm wrestling tournament. But it’s not all fun and games here, except for the VBS recreation team, and we’ve spent the days loving on Brazilians in the way of Christ. I spend the mornings working with the local children in Vacation Bible School then after lunch we are bused to the outer neighborhoods to see many more kids. My days are very busy, but I sleep well for it. I am encouraged when I remember that I too accepted Christ as a child- I know that what we do here is truly God’s work. Pray for us! And… hi mom.

An interview with Priscila

2008-07-17T17:04:00.002-05:00

Brian: Ok, today I’d like to introduce a young lady at our church who who has been visiting us from Brazil for the last 11 months. She is on our mission trip and her name is Priscila. Tell us, Priscila, about your experiences thus far on the trip.

Priscila: I have been learning so much, and I’ve been walking with a wise man named Walt. I’ve been learning English and a lot more about the Bible. I have been visiting the people and Walt is beside me all the time as we go door to door.

Brian: So…you are going door to door. What is your objective as you go door to door in the city?

Priscila: We go to visit the people who are new Christians from the service the night before. Sometimes, if they are not Christians, then we talk about the word of God and try to spread the Gospel and we always pray and always ask how we can pray for them. It is funny… they always invite us to come in the house. They want to make coffee and they want us to be comfortable. They love that we have come to visit and understand how far we have travelled. It is so special. Also, I can’t believe our church comes so far to visit Brazil. Even though I am a part of our group, I am a Brazilian, too, and I am very happy and impressed that our large group comes so far to visit my country.

Brian: How long have you been away from Brazil?

Priscila: I have been gone 11 months.

Brian: That is a long time! I see your father has met you here in Mato Verde. Tell us about your dad.

Priscila: Gilberto is my dad…and this is the first time I have seen him in 11 months. Renan is my brother and he is here too. They came from Sao Paulo. Sao Paulo is my city. That is a 24 hour trip from here. My uncle is Marcos, and he is here, too. They shared the driving duties for the 24 hour trip.

Brian: So this is a reunion for you?

Priscila: This has become a reunion for my family, and I have everyone here together for the first time in 11 months.

Brian: What team are you a part of here on the trip?

Priscila: I was on the VBS team but now am on the visitation team. That is where I am working closely with Walt. He is so sweet and kind, and I have learned a lot from him.

Brian: Is there anything you would like to say to your friends back at Parkway Hills?

Priscila: To my friends at church…I want to thank the whole church…everyone is so sweet and loving and I can see how God opened that door at Parkway Hills. I was asking God to open a door for a church. I just love Parkway Hills and I know God took me there to learn more about P-70. I know I will come back on this trip for sure. It is amazing that God took me all the way to Texas to bring me back to my country as a part of this ministry.

Brasil Day 9 - " A Beautiful City"

2008-07-17T08:35:00.001-05:00

It amazes me that God has created a world that is so beautiful - both in nature and in the ways of man. This morning I sat on a bench in the town square and observed the universality of this. For as I have had the joy of being in many of the world's places, and to sit on the benches of many a town square, it is wonderfully comforting to observe the same things each time. In each place young people still gather and old men still sit and talk; and, today, I joined them both. Language knows no boundaries when greetings and smiles are the fare, and I delight in being able, always, to do that.

Aside from just people, Mato Verde (pronounced verge) is a beautiful place. It sits at the foot of a mountain range, so that each morning I am greeted by the majesty of God's creation. The town holds a population of approximately 10,000 people (a guess) and serves as a kind of 'county seat' for this area, or municipality. People are very aware of our presence, and seem genuinely enthused about us being here. Each morning I go to the local radio station and am interviewed by a local DJ named, Serginho. Today, I wanted to tell folks the story of my falling on the motorcycle, thinking it might be fun for the radio audience to hear it, but Chris assured me this was not necessary as the whole town already had 'heard,' and were having a 'good laugh.' Ummmm?????

Each morning following breakfast, as well as each afternoon following our lunch, I bring the mission team of about 100 a 'pastoral word'. We have focused on Romans 12 this week. I also travel each afternoon into the rural areas, to smaller villages, and preach and lead in services held in each town square. In the evening, I bring a message to between 200 to 400 persons, at what we call, "evangelistic services.' My text's are always from the gospel's and tell the story of Jesus' actions, ministry, and purpose - with a call for people to receive Him as their Saviour. There are decisions every night, which thrills me. Indeed, the gospel is a powerful thing.

Please pray for us. Our American team, made up of ParkwayHills members, is a testimony to the providence and provision of God. Debbie Lewis leads our VBS, which touches hundreds of children each day. Doctors Jerry Lewis and Sue Benton, along with nurses Marty Murph and Karen Davenport, operate a clinic that brings both care, medicine, and the love of Jesus Christ. And our youth are amazing examples of God's work n their 'everyday' lives, as the children of this place pull and tug at them constantly to play and be noticed. This they do, making their pastor very proud of them.

Deus te Abencoe -

Pastor Sam

Brasil - Day 8 - Things not to do

2008-07-16T10:03:00.001-05:00

Today I experienced bruises in the first person - to my body and my ego. How? Well, your pastor rented a Mortorcycle. Not a scooter, which is what I wanted, but a motorcycle. A Honda, tightly geared, able to do wheelies, etc. etc. etc.

The last thing I remember is letting out the clutch and seeing the front wheel raise its head - and, from there- the rest is history. Luckily, I had only traveled 15 feet, which is good, because my speed was the level of only bruising not breaking the bones. To say the least, I have retired the machine, this beast of errant ways, and have resolved to not try this again. Thank goodness Belinda does not read my blogs.

P.S. This whole episode was Chris Davenport´s fault :)

Last evening I experienced a most serendiptous event, truly orchestrated from God. There is a class meeting in our hotel of young Brasilians, who are learning to speak English. Their teacher and I met in the hotel lobby and he asked if I had a moment to speak to his class. He said they would take great delight in hearing someone from the U.S. actually speak. "Of course," I said. What happened from there could only be explained by God. A student asked, "why are you here?" And, once again, I found an opening for the gospel that was God-sent. As I sat there explaining to this towns´young, it´s rightest and best, I was amazed at the providence of our Lord in orchestrating His work for the Kingdom. He is, truly, an amazing God.

I am working on my Portuguese each day and have made a pact with the class to coninue with them, bruses and all. The whole town is talking about the "crazy" pastor who takes literally the call to "take it to the streets." From now on, though, I plan to keep it so by standing and not falling beneath a motorcycle. Amen!

Deus te Abencoe

Pastor Sam

Brasil - Day Seven

2008-07-15T21:22:00.002-05:00

It is hard to explain my feelings about being cut off from the world as I know it, yet being totally at peace and satisfied at the same time. For aside from missing the voice of my precious wife and children, and of course all of you, I was resigned upon arriving in Curral de Dentro that my life would just be that way. And... it was! For Six wonderful days.

Of course I went about the town, nestled into the mountains of North Minas Gerais, and found what I could to survive. For me that meant finding a bicycle. And because making friends with these people is so easy - they are so pleased to know you and to help - a gentleman right next to my hotel, when I asked in broken Portuguese where I might rent such transport, said, 'take mine.'

The town of Curral de Dentro is small but the people there possessed large hearts, made only larger by the love we brought them in Christ. The weather each day was cool, and the nights, at times very chilly - without aid of heaters. So that I slept very bundled, even with my hat pulled down over my face - finding the morning temp in my room in the low 50s. BRRRRR! Yes, showering, which I stepped into by stepping outside, was accomplished in 'parts' - if you know what I mean.

The city we are in today is larger, and we will be here for 5 days. As you can see, I have internet. Check out our church blog for more information and pictures.

In short, you all would be very proud of the ParkwayHills Missionaries. They are unbelievable. We have seen many professions of faith. At each service in which I preach people come forward, and this is the direct result of the work of our team. I bring 2 pastoral messages per day, plus preach to large crowds each night. I have preached in city squares, called 'Prasas' and have seen the power of God each time. Our guitarist traveling with us is perhaps the best I have ever workd with. He can play it all - and for me to say I am impressed with someone's guitar playing, well... you can trust me that he it is good.

Continue to pray for us. And especially tonight as I preach in the square of the city of Mato Verde - (Green Grass) .

Deus te Abencoe

Pastor Sam

On the road again...

2008-07-15T12:16:00.004-05:00

Well, we are finally back on the road again! The first 3 days of our mission trip to Brazil in Curral de Dentro have to be considered an unqualified success. As a member of the construction team, I am amazed by the organization and ingenuity of Craig Davenport, David Davenport, and Danny Hobson. These three guys paved the way last year in designing and building 20 benches for the church in Espinoza, and they did all of this in 4 days. This year, we finished 20 benches in two days, which gave us lots of time to build other things! All one has to do is describe a project to Craig, David and Danny...moments later it is actually coming to life before my very eyes! We made microphone stands, small tables, foot stools, and other things for the church in Curral de Dentro. It will be interesting to see if we break our bench construction record in Mato Verde, which is our next stop! Brian Terrell

Written by Jordan Davenport

2008-07-15T12:15:00.003-05:00

I have had an incredible time in Brasil thus far. The past three days have been incredible and I can only imagine what the rest of the trip has in store for us. I was a part of the recreation team for Vacation Bible School. For the past three days, Brian Davenport, Mike Mowrey, and I played with the children of Curral De Dentro. We played soccer, football, dodgeball, frisbee, relay races, and even some Duck, Duck, Goose. I cant tell you how much I enjoy spending time with these kids. For the first time I have realized just how much potential there is in Brasil. Such a large percentage of the people here have never heard of Jesus’s love. Please continue you prayer as we begin our ministry in Mato Verde. In Him, Jordan Davenport.

Written by Brandon Benton

2008-07-15T12:15:00.001-05:00

Those were some exiting three days, I can’t list everything that happened, but I’ll do my best. For three amazing days I worked with children of ages 3-14 in VBS. My Dad and I worked with puppets to teach bible stories to the children. On the last day we used an evangecube to show the children the coice they could make with christ. That day I saw about 45 children accept christ, and was great to see all those children committed to Christ. Every night we would hold a service for all the people in Curral de Dentro. They were all into the service and many adults gave themselves to Christ. All the kids there were kind and were always very interested in the frisbees we brought. Whenever I tried to play soccer with them, even the five year old would completely win. Although we couldn’t understand their language well, and they led a completely different liflestlye, the Brasillian people were the probably the greatest joy in Curral de Dentro. If your reading Parkway Hills, please pray for our crew, the safety of us, and especialy the people of Brasil. –Brandon Benton

Written by Sam Lewis

2008-07-15T12:08:00.003-05:00

We are on the road again and it has been a great first 3 days. I am a part of vbs vacation bible school which is very fun because I get to work with all the cool kids and see how much I can learn about them. I got to be with the 7 and 8 year olds and they were a blast, we got to play a lot of games and learn a alot about god with crafts and puppett shows about the miracles the jesus would do back then like when there was a crowd of people that were starving he got two little fish and five loaves of barley bread and feed the whole crowd with left overs. Also when he raised lazaurous from the dead, and when Brandon and Doug Benton talked about how to get to heaven by using the evange cube to help explain. Written by: sam lewis

On the Road from Rio de Janeiro

2008-07-11T11:40:00.006-05:00

On the road from Rio de Janeiro to Curral de Dentro, Minas Gerais, Brazil - It is Friday morning at noon, and our team is still on the road but greatly refreshed after a wonderful night's sleep in what most of us recognize as the best accommodations we have ever enjoyed in this country. It could not have come quickly enough, as we left Dallas for Miami on Wednesday afternoon at 6:20 PM, which was about 50 minutes behind schedule. From there, we made our connection in Miami at 11:10 ET with probably 20 minutes to spare. The 8 hour and 30 minute flight was uneventful, and we landed in Rio at 8:40 AM, Atlantic Time. Everyone made it through customs without incident, and the construction team loaded all of the luggage onto the bus. Then, we readied ourselves for an estimated 8 hour trip north to those fine accommodations I've referenced above. Unfortunately, the air conditioning on that bus could not pass muster, so we took an unscheduled 90 minute brunch at the airport while the bus company called in the reserves. Luckily for the construction team, the bus company moved our luggage to the new bus, and we were on our way by 12:30 PM on Thursday.

Well, there are two entirely different ways to measure time and distance: our way and the mission trip way. I'm not complaining, but the mission trip way is really a guesstimate which rarely ever seems to be on the low side. That's just one way of saying that we finally arrived around midnight and, after unpacking and a late night supper, got to bed between 1:00 and 2:00 in the morning.

However, we have much for which to be thankful. First, our entire group is both in excellent spirits and in excellent health. Our bus driver is careful, and we have been well fed. Our teams are ready, and we believe God has prepared our way. Our first activity this evening in Cural will be to draw attention to the activities of the next three days by inviting the entire town to a service featuring singing, slide shows, and a guitar concert. Oh...and we are under the bluest sky we have ever seen!

We hope you'll check back often to see what we are doing. And please remember us (and the friends we are about to make) in your prayers. We will be remembering you in ours!

Brian Terrell

Brazil Day One

2008-07-09T07:56:00.000-05:00

In just a few hours our Missionary Team to Brazil will leave DFW for an evening flight to Florida that will connect us with an all-night flight to Rio De Janeiro. Arriving early on Thursday, we will use a very nice 'travel bus' for a two day road trip to our first village. On Friday afternoon, January 11, we will arrive in Curral de Dentro and start quickly with an evening service that the people there have been planing for months. Our group of 30 will be joined by about 50 other Brazilian volunteer missionaries who will be with us for the entire 2 weeks. Mostly young people in their late teens and early 20s, they - along with their sponsors and leaders - will help us with our efforts in Vacation Bible School, evangelism, sport camp, and evening worship and singing. It is all very exciting as these people know how and 'love' to worship. I will preach in this service and plan to speak of the 'Light that will not go out' Jesus, the Light of the World - for, when there 2 years ago the lights of the city went out and we held our service by flashlight and candle light. God's Spirit was evident then and I pray will be evident on this Friday, as well.

This mission trip is a highlight of my year, though it is very, very tiring. Pray that I and the others will be refreshed in our spirits, and ready 'physically' for the schedule, duties, and opportunities at hand.

I will keep you 'posted' (pun intended)

Pastor Sam