“You don’t know me, but I know you. I’ve been praying for you for the last seven years. And now I have the joy of meeting you in person!” Helio declared as he gave us each a bear hug. What an incredible gift of God’s grace - to meet a brother in Christ who has lovingly walked with us on this journey without us even knowing! He continues to pray for our family and our ministry every morning. Meeting Helio was one of the highlights of our recent visit to his church in Jundiaí near São Paulo. We also learned that this young (11 years old), fast-growing (400+ members) church has developed ministries with urban skate boarders, street people, and with shoppers at the local farmer’s market. Through his prayer support we feel like we’re a part of their ministry as well!
Helio is part of a huge “cloud of witnesses” (Heb. 12:1) who faithfully “hold the rope” for us. The amazing thing is that we have never met many of these special people. As I was writing this journal, I received a message from Esther in the midwest saying that she has been encouraging her church to pray for us and nine other missionaries - and to keep in contact. Another faithful prayer partner whom we have never met!
We are richly blessed by all who intercede on our behalf. As a missionary colleague says, “If you don’t give, we can’t go; if you don’t pray, we won’t stay.”
NEWS FLASH:  Speaking of giving, International Ministries just announced a new Matching Gift Campaign that runs from May 1 to June 30. Gifts will be matched from a) new givers or b) individuals who give toward our ministry above and beyond their regular amount. You can use the special matching gift link on the IM web site or send a gift directly to IM with a note that says “Matching Gift Campaign.”
Pela graça de Deus (by God’s grace)
Ann & Bruce