What an incredible two weeks.  The best part - seeing Sarah and Morgan in the Tyson McGhee Airport on Day 14!   I have come back with alot of memories and relationships.  Brazil now has a place in my heart.  It has changed my life and I hope to return one day and see the faithful people of Rio.  The intentions for this trip were for our intern team to see what the Methodist church is doing in Rio, but God had additional plans.  We did see alot of what the church is doing, but he spoke to many on this trip in a unique way.  I believe we are all coming back with a renewed vision for the church in America. I believe we were all struck with the passion of the Brazilian people and desire to see that in the church in America.  

However, while the Rio methodist church is rapidly growing (8,000 - 95,000 in 20 years) there is still a tension between a near pentecostal movement and social action.  Ideally the two would go hand in hand.  Sadly, however, many times one side is neglected.  We visited three orphanages in the greater Rio area.  One of the homes was in serious need of repair, but was not receiving the attention it needed.  I reminded the church in Itaipu that all the spiritual gifts are in vain if we do not have the selfless love demonstrated to us on the cross.   Thankfully though there are many churches that are seeking to bring justice to all God's children.  The church in Itaipu is one such church.  They minister to the poor in the falvellas by bringing them medicine and health care and also bringing the kids to the church where they usually have a meal before the children's programs.  The pastor, Delson (pictured with me above in front of their new church building), is a true servant leader.  I went to the store with him after their morning service and he knew nearly everyone there. I jokingly suggested in bad Portuguese that he was a celebrity, but he was quick to correct me and say he was merely a servant.  

A special thanks to all those churches and pastors that hosted us, to Tiago and Cynthia at IMFORM, to Rosanne our interpreter, to pastor Delson in Itaipu, to Wilson our guide, and the many others that opened your hearts and doors to us.  Your hospitality and faithfulness helped change our lives.   

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