New work begins in city’s North Zone
YEAR 41 | 2024-12-18 | SÃO JOSÉ DOS CAMPOS (SP) BRAZIL
On Sunday night, Dec. 15, we were present for the beginning of a new work in the North Zone of the city. The new group is meeting in the home of a sister in Christ, Cristiane, mother to Pedro, who converted her. Vicki and I studied with Pedro and his wife Karol about seven years ago. He has since converted a number of family members and friends.
Ten people were present, including Pedro’s maternal grandparents, who are not Christians. They were attentive and interested. They also live not far away. We should have a number of others from the region attending soon.
Vicki and I will work with them and encourage them in this new effort. The plan is to begin a midweek study in January. Pedro has already been studying with his daughter and two nieces for some time.
Pedro will give up his late Wednesday night online studies and his coordination of the monthly men’s meeting in order to focus better on the new work.
In the 2022 census, the North Zone had a population of 61,940 in 24,193 homes. It has a distinct culture, established in the 70s when large industries opened up and recruited workers from the south of the state of Minas Gerais.
IN OTHER NEWS
- Vicki’s vision gave us a scare Dec. 14. She was able to see a doctor and have tests done Dec. 17. Everything is normal. We’re grateful it was nothing serious and that she could have it checked out quickly. If the problem was caused by electronic screens, new non-prescription glasses to screen out blue light may help.
- Nilton Barretto’s 390-page book, Letting the Bible Speak, is at the printer. It’s the largest we’ve published yet, and one that has great promise to make a wide impact.
- The most recent issue of Edificação Magazine focuses on the theme of mercy. It has been well received and praised. Mercy has become the justification for disobedience among some in the church.
- I wrote an article of 520 words for the monthly magazine of the Guarulhos congregations: “Amo Jesus”. The theme of this issue was “The King Is Returning.” My assigned topic was about perseverance of faith, based on Jesus’ question in Luke 18.8.
- I occasionally contribute content, mostly poems, to “The Scattershot Report,” edited by friend Weylan Deaver. He’s assembled a great group of contributors ─ check them out.
Thank you for your prayers and encouragement. God bless your efforts in every good work in his Kingdom.