Showing posts with label Rio. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Rio. Show all posts
Saturday, May 01, 2010
O Caminho Church in Niteroi, Brazil
Check out this video from the O Caminho Church in Niteroi, Brazil. I met one of the members of the team, Juliana, when she was a member at a church in Belo Horizonte. It is amazing to see how God is using her now to minister to her native country.
Sunday, July 19, 2009
Rio Update - July 19
It's hard to believe that we head home in a few days. :-(
This morning we worshipped with our Brazilian brothers and sisters again. I love the passion in their worship. I am also excited that I know enough Portuguese that I can at least grasp the general idea of most of the songs and the sermon.
This morning we had to say goodbye to some of our Brazilian friends. We will see others in a little bit for a special event here at the building. It sounds like something similar to an event we call Emerging Artists at Rochester. I can't wait to see what it will be like.
Some of our team members (led by Roger) have done a lot of work on the playset at the children's home. It's looking really good. :-)
Friday afternoon was our last VBS. We were supposed to hold it here at the church building, but we had a great opportunity. Instead, we were invited to hold our VBS at the public school next to the church. (That would never happen in Michigan!) We had over 50 children there and it was a great experience. The children were a joy to be with and our team members did a great job once again.
That evening we enjoyed a cultural event when we went to a fair that was created to preserve the culture of northeast Brazil. There was food, dancing, and more. It was a very interesting and fun evening.
Saturday was our English Day. We created a variety of games where Brazilians who know various levels of English could practice their English and have fun. It was an enjoyable day and it helped us get to know some of the Brazilians better. There were church members and people from the community who came.
After the English Day we went to a mall (without a Portuguese speaker in the group) for shopping and dinner. Some of our team members took in the new Harry Potter movie (in English). Then we enjoyed dinner together before heading back to the home for the evening.
After worship this morning, we enjoyed beans, rice, and meat for lunch before spending the afternoon at the Hippie Fair. The last two times we were in Brazil, Michelle wanted to buy a painting at the fair. Today we were able to find one we liked that was within our budget. Needless to say, Michelle is very happy.
As I type this, I hear our mission team's praise team practicing. I am pretty sure they are going to sing a few songs tonight as a part of the special event. I am looking forward to it! It starts in about half a hour.
The next couple of days will be more relaxing as we experience Rio and the Brazilian culture. Our team has worked hard for a week and now we will have a couple of days to unwind. Thank you to everyone who has prayed for us and supported us! You have made it possible for us to bless others and be blessed.
I am hoping to post one more update before we head home. God has certainly been at work in our midst on this trip.
shine!
Jason
This morning we worshipped with our Brazilian brothers and sisters again. I love the passion in their worship. I am also excited that I know enough Portuguese that I can at least grasp the general idea of most of the songs and the sermon.
This morning we had to say goodbye to some of our Brazilian friends. We will see others in a little bit for a special event here at the building. It sounds like something similar to an event we call Emerging Artists at Rochester. I can't wait to see what it will be like.
Some of our team members (led by Roger) have done a lot of work on the playset at the children's home. It's looking really good. :-)
Friday afternoon was our last VBS. We were supposed to hold it here at the church building, but we had a great opportunity. Instead, we were invited to hold our VBS at the public school next to the church. (That would never happen in Michigan!) We had over 50 children there and it was a great experience. The children were a joy to be with and our team members did a great job once again.
That evening we enjoyed a cultural event when we went to a fair that was created to preserve the culture of northeast Brazil. There was food, dancing, and more. It was a very interesting and fun evening.
Saturday was our English Day. We created a variety of games where Brazilians who know various levels of English could practice their English and have fun. It was an enjoyable day and it helped us get to know some of the Brazilians better. There were church members and people from the community who came.
After the English Day we went to a mall (without a Portuguese speaker in the group) for shopping and dinner. Some of our team members took in the new Harry Potter movie (in English). Then we enjoyed dinner together before heading back to the home for the evening.
After worship this morning, we enjoyed beans, rice, and meat for lunch before spending the afternoon at the Hippie Fair. The last two times we were in Brazil, Michelle wanted to buy a painting at the fair. Today we were able to find one we liked that was within our budget. Needless to say, Michelle is very happy.
As I type this, I hear our mission team's praise team practicing. I am pretty sure they are going to sing a few songs tonight as a part of the special event. I am looking forward to it! It starts in about half a hour.
The next couple of days will be more relaxing as we experience Rio and the Brazilian culture. Our team has worked hard for a week and now we will have a couple of days to unwind. Thank you to everyone who has prayed for us and supported us! You have made it possible for us to bless others and be blessed.
I am hoping to post one more update before we head home. God has certainly been at work in our midst on this trip.
shine!
Jason
Friday, July 17, 2009
Rio Update - July 17
As I write this we are about half way through our time in Brasil. So far we have cleaned up the children’s home, worshipped with the Brazilians twice (once in a bi-lingual service), started construction of a new playset for the children’s home, been in the community, held two VBS’s (one in the children’s home and one at the Ramos Church across town), and connected with the Brazilian culture. On a more fun note, we have been to soccer game at the famous Maracanã stadium, eaten Brazilian pizza, and enjoyed soups, beans, and rice. It has been an incredible experience so far.
I have been reminded on this trip that God is not an American God. God is a God of all creation.
So often we think of God as the God of our nation. While that is true at some level, He is not just “our” God. As a matter of fact, I don’t believe that American has a special place in God’s heart where He loves us more than other nations. Actually, He is probably disappointed with us more than many other nations.
I am not trying to bash our country. I love the United States. I appreciate what we have and what our nation stands for. But at the same time, we are not God’s “special country.” We are one nation among many through which God wants us to bring forth His Kingdom.
I love the Brazilian people. I love that they often have more joy and peace than we do, but they have less than we do in terms of material goods. Many of them do not have the weight of large mortgages, expensive cars, and maintaining a certain lifestyle. They have something more simple, and more satisfying.
Sure, some of them would like more. Yes, there is violence and corruption in Brazil. There are many who go without food or own little or nothing. They are broken people, just like you and me. However, I appreciate the smiles, hugs, and joys they find in the simple things.
They have learned to be content without things you and I take for granted. Things like free refills, plumbing that doesn’t require pumps, and more reliable electricity. But it is in that contentment that many Brazilians have found something that you and I often struggle to find…the joy of a simple, less distracted life that doesn’t require constant entertainment and amassing of material goods.
shine!
Jason
I have been reminded on this trip that God is not an American God. God is a God of all creation.
So often we think of God as the God of our nation. While that is true at some level, He is not just “our” God. As a matter of fact, I don’t believe that American has a special place in God’s heart where He loves us more than other nations. Actually, He is probably disappointed with us more than many other nations.
I am not trying to bash our country. I love the United States. I appreciate what we have and what our nation stands for. But at the same time, we are not God’s “special country.” We are one nation among many through which God wants us to bring forth His Kingdom.
I love the Brazilian people. I love that they often have more joy and peace than we do, but they have less than we do in terms of material goods. Many of them do not have the weight of large mortgages, expensive cars, and maintaining a certain lifestyle. They have something more simple, and more satisfying.
Sure, some of them would like more. Yes, there is violence and corruption in Brazil. There are many who go without food or own little or nothing. They are broken people, just like you and me. However, I appreciate the smiles, hugs, and joys they find in the simple things.
They have learned to be content without things you and I take for granted. Things like free refills, plumbing that doesn’t require pumps, and more reliable electricity. But it is in that contentment that many Brazilians have found something that you and I often struggle to find…the joy of a simple, less distracted life that doesn’t require constant entertainment and amassing of material goods.
shine!
Jason
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Rio Update - July 15
We have done a lot since Sunday and I have not been able to blog since we have not had internet access. At least I have been able to check my email several times a day with my phone. I have to admit that technology is amazing and so often I take it for granted. This trip has reminded me of how blessed we are materially in the States.
Monday and Tuesday were dedicated primarily to projects around the children’s home. We spent time weeding (light and industrial size weeds). We also cleared out several areas around the grounds. Others installed new handrails and a fence to keep the children safe while they play.
We have enjoyed some delicious homemade Brazilian foods, including traditional breakfasts and soups. The people here have been extremely hospitable and kind to us.
The group was also introduced to one of my personal favorite treats in Brazil, chocolate pizza. Imagine thin crust pizza with chocolate sauce, chocolate sprinkles, and M&M’s. All I can say is, yummy!
I have been highly impressed by our team. We are a diverse group with a variety of different abilities, but we have all come together to accomplish so much. Since our arrival we have transformed the children’s home in a number of ways. In addition to the weeding, handrails, and fence, we have put down concrete where we will be installing a new play structure. (They don't use sand in Rio for playgrounds because it will quickly become a litter box for the animals in the community.)
We have also connected with many of the people here. Marcos and his family have grown close to us. Marcos, a member of the Victory Church, volunteers his time to help fix things around the children’s home. He and his family have spent a lot of time with us. I have gotten to know their fifteen-year-old son, Thauan. We talked throughout the day (using a dictionary and a lot of hand signs) and played foosball. Table soccer is like real soccer…the Brazilians always win.
This morning we experienced a power outage in the favela. While power outages are a struggle for us in the States, they create even larger problems here. Not only do you lose lighting and electrical outlets. You also lose water. Here, the water is pumped up to the top of the house in a large cistern. The plumbing then uses gravity to feed faucets, showers, etc. So when you lose power, you also lose the source for water. For a few hours this morning, that meant most of us couldn’t shower. Fortunately, the power came on in time for most of us to get a shower before heading to the church building.
Today we will be starting our three days of VBS. Today’s VBS will be held at the Ramos Church. Tomorrow we will hold a VBS at the children’s home. On Friday, we will hold our final VBS at the Victory Church. We have many other things on the agenda as well as our English Day on Saturday.
This year has been different than the last two trip to Brazil, but equally as fulfilling and encouraging. I have enjoyed the opportunity to reconnect with old friends and make new ones. I am really excited that Thauan gave me an email address so we can keep in touch – which should be interesting with the need for translation. There is so much more I could say, but I will end with one final story…
This morning as some of us were sitting in the kitchen listening to the rain and without power, we began singing “Send Your Rain.” It was a moment of peace as the Spirit of the Lord poured over us. God reminded us of His presence and working among us. It was one of those thin spaces where God speaks in a quiet but powerful way.
shine!
Jason
Monday and Tuesday were dedicated primarily to projects around the children’s home. We spent time weeding (light and industrial size weeds). We also cleared out several areas around the grounds. Others installed new handrails and a fence to keep the children safe while they play.
We have enjoyed some delicious homemade Brazilian foods, including traditional breakfasts and soups. The people here have been extremely hospitable and kind to us.
The group was also introduced to one of my personal favorite treats in Brazil, chocolate pizza. Imagine thin crust pizza with chocolate sauce, chocolate sprinkles, and M&M’s. All I can say is, yummy!
I have been highly impressed by our team. We are a diverse group with a variety of different abilities, but we have all come together to accomplish so much. Since our arrival we have transformed the children’s home in a number of ways. In addition to the weeding, handrails, and fence, we have put down concrete where we will be installing a new play structure. (They don't use sand in Rio for playgrounds because it will quickly become a litter box for the animals in the community.)
We have also connected with many of the people here. Marcos and his family have grown close to us. Marcos, a member of the Victory Church, volunteers his time to help fix things around the children’s home. He and his family have spent a lot of time with us. I have gotten to know their fifteen-year-old son, Thauan. We talked throughout the day (using a dictionary and a lot of hand signs) and played foosball. Table soccer is like real soccer…the Brazilians always win.
This morning we experienced a power outage in the favela. While power outages are a struggle for us in the States, they create even larger problems here. Not only do you lose lighting and electrical outlets. You also lose water. Here, the water is pumped up to the top of the house in a large cistern. The plumbing then uses gravity to feed faucets, showers, etc. So when you lose power, you also lose the source for water. For a few hours this morning, that meant most of us couldn’t shower. Fortunately, the power came on in time for most of us to get a shower before heading to the church building.
Today we will be starting our three days of VBS. Today’s VBS will be held at the Ramos Church. Tomorrow we will hold a VBS at the children’s home. On Friday, we will hold our final VBS at the Victory Church. We have many other things on the agenda as well as our English Day on Saturday.
This year has been different than the last two trip to Brazil, but equally as fulfilling and encouraging. I have enjoyed the opportunity to reconnect with old friends and make new ones. I am really excited that Thauan gave me an email address so we can keep in touch – which should be interesting with the need for translation. There is so much more I could say, but I will end with one final story…
This morning as some of us were sitting in the kitchen listening to the rain and without power, we began singing “Send Your Rain.” It was a moment of peace as the Spirit of the Lord poured over us. God reminded us of His presence and working among us. It was one of those thin spaces where God speaks in a quiet but powerful way.
shine!
Jason
Sunday, July 12, 2009
Rio - July 12 update
We arrived early yesterday morning and spent the day in a semi-awake state getting settled in. We had lunch at the church, shopped at the new WalMart, and spent the evening at the children's home where we are staying during out trip. It is such a beautiful view and I am enjoying the neighborhood. Yesterday afternoon, Rachel, Drew, and I went for a walk in the neighborhood. We grabbed a drink from the local store and watched children play soccer and fly kites.
We slept well last night and had a great breakfast this morning. Worship was incredible. I was amazed at how much Portuguese I remembered after two years. There was a new song we sang this morning (well, new to me) that had a simple but powerful chorus... (Thank you, Kevin, for helping me translate and remember)
My prayer is that this song is the anthem of our trip. That God will do what He needs to do in us, around us, and through us, as we seek to grow closer to him and serve the people of Rio and the Victory Church.
So far this has been a great trip and I am excited about the team that God assembled for this trip. It has also been good to see Dan & Kirsty, the other Rio church members, and Becky and Claire. We also making some new friends. I can't wait to see what else God has in store for us.
shine!
Jason
We slept well last night and had a great breakfast this morning. Worship was incredible. I was amazed at how much Portuguese I remembered after two years. There was a new song we sang this morning (well, new to me) that had a simple but powerful chorus... (Thank you, Kevin, for helping me translate and remember)
Examine me
Break me
Transform me
Fill me
Use me
My prayer is that this song is the anthem of our trip. That God will do what He needs to do in us, around us, and through us, as we seek to grow closer to him and serve the people of Rio and the Victory Church.
So far this has been a great trip and I am excited about the team that God assembled for this trip. It has also been good to see Dan & Kirsty, the other Rio church members, and Becky and Claire. We also making some new friends. I can't wait to see what else God has in store for us.
shine!
Jason
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