In 1995, three of us went on a survey trip from Santarem to Altamira to determine whether we wanted to open a mission base in that region. Our goal was to prayerfully talk to the people, expecting God to reveal His will to us. We drove for 14 hours through thick dust, smoke, and fires. I cut … Vineyard Central Altamira
We were invited to Jim and Vicky’s 64th wedding anniversary meal. Jim (grey sweater) and Harold (blue coat, black-rimmed glasses) were super-instrumental in the early days in Altamira. They helped us buy our first large boats, the first Central Church property, the airplane, and innumerable other projects. They took a long shot in investing in … Heroes of the Faith
Do you think you ever connected with someone like this when you were an infant? How is that relationship these days? What happened? Powered by WPeMatico
Experience the Heartbeat of Northern Brazil Picture yourself in a small, vibrant community in Northern Brazil. Feel the excitement of forró music, with its irresistible rhythm that makes your heart race and your feet move. This week, I poured my passion into writing a ballad. With the help of technology, I brought this song to life, … The Story of the Beginning of the Mirante Church
This week, I was transported back to 1998, when we began the Mirante Church, because their pastor, Nira, requested photos of the early days. In 1997, we moved to a notoriously dangerous neighborhood. The roads were so bad that when it rained, we often had to try several routes to claw our way in with … The Mirante Church
A Few Tips: Start your day with God: Spend enough quiet time with God each morning so that He shapes your perception of reality. Embrace Servant Leadership: Allow God to work through you and lead by serving others. Anticipate Discomfort in Change: Understand that organizational change can be unsettling. Expect chaos, resistance, and the feeling … How to Plant a Church from Scratch
At our home in Marabá, we have a large glass window that often surprises the local wildlife. Recently, while walking through the kitchen, I heard two dull thuds. It was a pair of doves that had failed to see the glass. Occasionally, we hear louder bangs when a peregrine falcon mistakes its reflection for a rival. … An Unexpected Gift
Which one are you? Now which one are you? Powered by WPeMatico
At Regent University, one of my assignments was to conduct a twelve-page textual study on any pericope—a complete story or section—in the Bible. I chose Genesis 2:4-25. In my study, I concluded that it’s crucial for children to leave their parents’ homes and form a unified bond with their spouse and God because the author … Thin and Thick Times
Our third grandchild arrived! Zack, Ellis Ritchard, and Olivia The day of the birth the girls had planned to watch their first Christmas movie together. They got partway through the movie. Tim, Bella, the twins, Anni, Zack’s mom Cindy, Deanna, and I moved in a long procession through the hushed hospital halls, trekking back and … Ellis Ritchard Whitton
