November - December
2005
Railson & Heidi Gil
Church Planting in Brazil
The Xingu Mission • Vineyard Brazil
Prayer Corner...
1. Expansion and leadership of men’s and women’s discipleship groups
2. Worship team development. Pray for Elivelton who plays the guitar and is learning worship songs.
3. Expansion of children’s Sunday School and youth group activities
4. Continued success for our broadband Internet service provider, AMASTER
5. More conversions and baptisms
6. The sale of our
home and property in Porto de Moz7. Funding for church property and future building
8. Heidi’s immigration status (she must re-appeal permanent residency)
Happy Holidays and Blessed 2006
As we approach the end of another year, we cannot help but appreciate the
grace of God that has helped us through. We hope that your 2005 was likewise
heralded with victories and produced good memories.
2005 Recap
If you have been following our news, then you know that we have moved
house twice, moved the church location twice, and opened a small business to
supplement the donations we receive through the Xingu Mission. Railson
finished his secondary studies in January (halleluiah!) and Heidi ended up
taking an unexpected reprieve from nutrition work, which afforded her the
luxury of being home with the kids. Tim turned four in January and Sarah
turned two in May. The two are an amazing duo and the best of play
companions. They are excited to both be able to go to preschool in
the coming year. In general we have adjusted well to our new setting in
Almeirim, and despite the year’s difficulties, we have the conviction that
we are just where we are supposed to be. Our church has weathered the
inevitable growing pains extremely well, demonstrating camaraderie,
comprehension, and brotherly love at each turn. What a great family!
Baptism Retreat
In November we rented a huge pickup to take our members
out to a day retreat and baptism service. The first heavy rains of the
winter season broke loose just as we were leaving town, but no one was
interested in turning back----not even the moms with small children! They
contented themselves holding a large tarp over their heads during the
hour-long trip. Everyone will attest that the soggy journey was well worth
the sacrifice! Six teens and an adult were baptized and we all enjoyed a
tasty lamb barbecue.
Photos:
- Railson serves roast lamb at the church retreat.
- Baptisms can be held in streams in the hills near Almeirim.
- Brazilians can be exhausted, but never unenthusiastic! The church boards
the truck for the trek back home.
Once again, thank you for your prayers and support.
Blessings,
Heidi & Railson
