Jeyson, Stephanie, Elijah, & Audrey

Jeyson, Stephanie, Elijah, & Audrey

Monday, April 13, 2009

50 years to write 1 book!

This Easter we went to Jeyson's parents' house in Goiania and enjoyed a lunch with several missionary families.

The couple above are Brazilian missionaries (from southern Brazil) and have been serving in a tribe for 50 years! They told all kinds of stories about their experiences living among the people and even using Asas de Socorro for transportation at times. One of the most interesting things to hear about was that they recently completed translating the entire Bible into the tribal language. I cant imagine what it was like to see the finished product for the first time after 50 years of work! What an inspiration to stay dedicated to what God has called us to do!


Growing up, every year my mom has made this traditional, Italian Easter bread. Seeing these breads come out of the oven really makes it feel like Easter time. So, even though I was so far away from home, I set to work trying to carry on the tradition here....and I have to say it was NOT easy not having all of the same ingredients.


After many failed attempts, it finally came out well so I had to post the picture so my family can see that I really did it :)

On another note, this past weekend we were able to connect our ministry with the ministry that Lika, Jeyson's sister, does in Goiania. Lika is a missionary with YWAM and specifically works with a project to reach out to poor children in the area. The ministry is called "Third Space" and is just that - a place for kids to go (other than school and home) to learn, do activities, stay off the streets, and hear about the Lord. Lika decided to motivate the kids to learn Bible verses by offering a prize of a panoramic flight for the students who learn the most verses....the pilot of course was Jeyson.



Here Jeyson is checking over the plane....



and teaching the kids a little about how it works









...and of course the best part was the flight!





It was so neat to hear these kids' reactions after the flight. They couldn't get over how small the houses and everything looked. They just kept going on and on and on in amazement. These are really simple kids who have barely traveled out of their town, so this really was a very, very special experience for them that I'm sure they will remember! It was so great to be a part of it! After, the kids came over for lunch at our home and they had a second new experience...lunch that doesn't include rice and beans :)

Back on the ground, this past week we spent a lot of time at our mission's annual business meeting....3 full days worth! Those who live in the northern bases participated via Skype. It's amazing how much difference technology makes in missions!












Here is a picture of the Anapolis base in the meeting. The papers everyone is looking at contain information about what was accomplished by the mission this past year.



Above are some of the leaders of the mission




Rocindes is the president







Wander is the treasurer and he also works with on the electronic side of things with the planes....talk about 2 very diverse roles!

Rute (standing) is the head of the financial department that I work in, and Josemil (seated) overseas Jeyson's area.

And Sara, a sweet young woman who works in the medical outreach department.




Many important issues were discussed and some will continue being discussed over the next year. Although the meetings were very long and involved, it was great to see the mission's body in action, bringing together many different areas of ability and experiences to work together for His glory. We're glad to be part of a mission where each voice is heard and valued.

3 comments:

Danielle said...

You really made one!!! You did better than me...I didn't even try this year. Although I did eat 1 1/2 Easter breads....does that count? Love you!

Vickie C said...

Stephanie
It looks perfect! Congratulations!

Jonas & Iria Braun said...

Stephanie,
I love to read your blog. Through it every week we get to know more about you. Thank you for sharing with us one of your family traditions! it was not only perfect it also was delicious! Guess I have to teach Jeyson how to make one of our family traditions: Easter Eggs. Maby next year.