As you can read in the article, A Smooth Transition, one of our biggest prayers for last quarter was answered in a wonderful way. Not to mention Heidi’s permanence issue. See? We are moving heaven and earth together through prayer! This quarter, continue to pray primarily for the flow of finances for our projects and family care.

1. Igreja da Paz. This is our church’s new name. Most of the members have continued with the congregation and are enthusiastic about the possibilities offered by the new church structure. Pray for growth and stability. Pray also for the new pastoral couple who will be coming in July. They will have to acquaint themselves quickly with everything here since Pastor Perges will be leaving almost immediately.
2. Trip to US. We will be in the United States June 25 through August 5. We are praying for divine encounters with like-minded people, and for times of re-fueling. We primarily need time to reconnect with sponsors and welcome new supporters to the team.
3. Our region, northern Brazil. Pray especially against the influences of idolatry, blinding ignorance, promiscuity, seduction, and violence. (The Laranjal reports 1-2 homicides a week, usually related to drinking and/or revenge.)
4. Priminet. Railson’s tentmaking business has already earned him more visibility in the community (something which we highly value for ministry) and has opened channels for him to manage the acquisition of satellite links for the region. Pray for continued success and financial return.
5. New Work in Nutrition beginning in August. In order to re-integrate into the dietetic profession Heidi will volunteer in nutrition care and monitoring through the national system in Monte Dourado and the Laranjal. This work will bring her before policy makers, such as the mayor of the Laranjal, while proportioning a priceless opportunity to make an impact among the nutritionally needy.
6. Financial Coverage. The dollar has continued to fall which unfortunately has the effect of automatically reducing the value of donations received.

What are you curious about? We encourage you to write-in and have your questions answered: gil.77brasil@hotmail.com

Q: What do they eat out there?

A: As in any society, diet is related to social class. Those with more affluence tend to eat a diet not too unlike the American diet (except more homemade). Those with very little resource, rely mostly on beans, rice, manioc meal and fish or beef. Unfortunately, the regional diet is generally poor in dairy products (with the exception of eggs) and fresh vegetables. Among those who value fruits, mango, pineapple, banana, and citrus fruits are easily incorporated into the diet year-round. Recent inflation has caused a food crisis, especially in the poorer areas where we work. Staples like rice, beans, and milk are among the products hardest hit, so many families are having a hard time purchasing enough nutritious foods.

A: Not generally, as long as you follow some guidelines. Don’t go tramping around underbrush alone. Stay on trails. Keep your eyes open when in wooded areas and walk slowly, so as to not step on any unsuspecting reptile. Since water snakes are common, follow the advice of the locals as to which streams pose the least threat for water play. On the first sunny day after a few cool days of rain, stay out of the brush. Snakes tend to come out to catch some rays and warm themselves at these times.