July 2011- As We Return Home

All of the Brazil team members arrived home safely. As we reflect on this week's experiences and special moments, we came away with a few final thoughts:

1. God doesn't call us to just exist. God can and will do tremendous things in our lives if we let Him. Are we willing to die to self and follow the calling God has placed on our lives? Are we going to do mighty things for God or will we just go on existing, ineffective and bored?

2. One of the team members called camp an "Oasis". Considering the almost "water crisis" and the living arrangements, one would think that it was far from an oasis. But understanding that an oasis is a place of fertility and growth, this week at camp has truly been an oasis for all of us. Maybe some of us merely learned how to speak a little Portuguese. Maybe some of us learned that Hope Unlimited is truly a place of refuge for the fatherless and orphaned. Maybe some of us heard God's call to the mission field. But all of us walked away from the trip a little more mature and a little further along on our spiritual journeys. We, along with the kids, were challenged to lead lives that will make a difference for the kingdom.

3. We have a warrior, a champion living inside of us. We can walk with confidence and boldness, without fear. We need to recognize the times when Satan is lying to us about our identities or placing doubts in our minds about who we are. When we experience those times, we need to run back to God's promises about who we are and what we have in Him.

4. We learned that our age doesn't determine our path in life but God's plan does. We don't need to be married or buy a house because we've reached a certain age and because that's what is expected from our society. We don't need to wait until we are in our 30s to start taking our walk with God seriously. We don't need to wait until retirement before we start going on missions. God has a unique plan for us and, thank God, it's not determined by man's timetable.

Would you continue to pray for those who went on this trip, that we would remember what we've learned and that the seeds that were planted would be watered and grow into new life that will affect the lives of those around us? It was an honor and privilege to work with the kids of Hope Unlimited this week. And as always, we left learning more from them than we could ever teach from our limited experiences.

July 2011- Wacky Wednesday

Today was jammed packed.

After breakfast and our team devotional, Pastor Derli, who is the director of Hope Unlimited and the pastor of the graduate church, sat with the team and explained how Hope operates and began to share the journey the kids of Hope experience. All of them are at Hope because a judge ordered it. Hope Unlimited doesn't receive applications, they don't go out on the street to find kids, or rescue abused and neglected kids on their own. All of the kids of Hope are here because a judge said they need to be. Some of them had to come straight here and couldn't say goodbye to their families because their lives were truly at risk. Others were brought here because they have been abused by stepfathers or other relatives and their moms wanted a safe place for them. Some of them called out to the authorities for help and then were sent here through the courts.

Imagine for a moment a room full of Americans who have had and led good lives hearing for the first time the horrors of a stepfather covering the mouth of his stepdaughter to sexually abuse her. Imagine for a minute how difficult it is for us to comprehend a 9 year old ripped from their family because someone is out for blood. These are things we can't and may not be able to ever understand, especially when we see these kids just being kids at camp. We see the competitiveness, we see the fun, we see the smiles and joy in their eyes, sharing their faith with each other and teaching each other along the way. As you see some of the pictures of the kids, please don't feel bad for them, but thank God that they are at Hope Unlimited. They are teaching us SO much about what it means to grow in faith and be a Christ-like example to those around us. They are in the best place they can possibly be.

We ran today's team game time and truly enjoyed watching the kids catching water balloons with their bodies, play balloon soccer, and have a relay race with ping pong balls on spoons. It was fun to see that the activities we play in America can entertain kids 5000 miles away. The evening's theme was biblical characters so we all did our best to dress up, of course earning our team points. We were in charge of worship at the service tonight and each team was in charge of portraying a part of the creation story in a skit for the message. It's amazing to see how well the kids understand the bible and can come up with creative ways to get the message across.

At the end, Pastor Derli presented the message of the gospel in a new and fresh way. He gave an altar call and many kids came to know Christ tonight. The gospel message is the same in every country. It's a message of hope and rescue. It's a message of redemption and salvation and it's universal. As we reflected on this experience, we realized that if we never see these kids again, we will one day rejoice with them in heaven and hopefully talk about this experience in a language we all understand.

Our First Day at Camp

When the kids’ buses pulled through camp, they were greeted with cheers and smiling faces…and so were we! They found themselves a bed, got freshened up and spent the rest of the afternoon in an array of activities: soccer, volleyball, crafts, and face painting. It was awesome to spend this first day getting acclimated with the kids (and their energy levels), the schedule, and the competitive nature innate in all of them!

After dinner (there’s no need to mention the awesome rice and beans, chicken, sausage and dessert cooked by the staff of Hope Unlimited), we were off to our first worship service with the kids.

Our team experienced worship like never before. The story of when Jesus welcomed the children to Him and told us that we need to be like them in order to inherit the kingdom of Heaven came to life in front of our eyes. The angelic voices of the Hope kids reminded us of the freedom we are to have in worship. We were dancing, shouting, and praising without boundaries, without worrying about what the person next to us was doing.

You have to remember that these are kids who don’t have families to go home to during their winter break. These are the kids that were abandoned by their families, only to find life in their Heavenly Father through Hope Unlimited. These are kids who understand from whom their next breath is coming. Pastor Derli reminded the children in service to go back to their first loves, remember their innocence and have true freedom through Christ. They were also reminded this night that they have a champion living inside of them (Isaiah 19-20) and that they don’t have to walk with their heads and shoulders down. They should walk tall, heads up, and with confidence because of who they are in Christ.

Can’t wait for the rest of the week…

July 2011- Sunday's Adventures

Internet is scarce here at camp. Apologies for the delays! :)

We spent the day learning about Hope Unlimited's operations and got a tour of the school facility called the City of Youth which houses the boys' ranch. We saw all the classrooms, learned about the training the kids receive and how Hope Unlimited prepares their kids for success in the real world after they graduate from the program. Along with the regular academic courses, the kids are taught a trade so they can get a job right out of the program. In fact, the auto shop classes are so elite that mechanics actually come to Hope Unlimited to recruit the latest graduates!! How exciting!

After that, we had a homemade lunch with the girls at their ranch and played more games of soccer and volleyball. While we were there, we surprised them with keyboards donated by a former PAC Brazil team member (pics to come). We told the girls how we wanted them to build on their extraordinary musical talents and learn another instrument in addition to the drum, guitar and recorder lessons they receive at school. Hopefully when the next team comes down, the entire Hope Worship team will be comprised completely of kids! That would be amazing.

We had the unique experience to worship with the Hope Unlimited graduate church at night. Some of our team led worship (one song in Portguguese, I might add) and had communion with the body of believers here in Brazil. Service was amazing and we were challenged to lay our burdens at the cross, surrendering every part of our hearts to Christ for His purposes. How fitting that we would hear a word like that the night before a week of camp started.

We arrived at camp late Sunday night before the kids got here tomorrow morning. We got settled and unpacked ALL the supplies necessary to run a week of camp for 160 people. That’s a lot of rice, beans, drinks, lettuce, potatoes, blankets, pillows…you get the picture.

A good night's rest is in store to prepare for the fun that awaits us...

July 2011- YAY! We're Here!

We arrived safely in Brazil this morning, without any hassles in customs. The weather was gorgeous - a sunny day with blue skies and the temperature near 80 degrees.

On the way to the girls' ranch we stopped and had lunch where some of us got to hear the history and future of Hope Unlimited. Hearing the stories and really understanding where Hope's heart was, we humbly headed to the girls' ranch, where the girls of Hope Unlimited live. We were greeted with hugs and many smiles. We jumped right to "work", playing soccer and volleyball for a while. The girls' soccer skills were impressive and we began to worry about what a game of soccer with the boys would be like! As we spent time with the girls, the reality of what some of them have already witnessed in their young lives truly changed our outlook on what we came here to do and how Hope's mission and purpose was being fulfilled.

When we left the girls' ranch, we had a little time to settle before heading out to the "churrascaria", a Brazilian steakhouse where the meat was abounding and our stomachs were overflowing with Guanara, a yummy Brazilian soda. After overdoing it, we headed back to the hotel to get a good night's rest before starting a new day in the morning.

July 2011- 48 Hours And Counting!

We leave in less than 48 hours! We are finishing up our packing, brushing up on Brazilian Portuguese and preparing our hearts for what we are about to experience.

This trip is different from other mission trips in that we don't have a specific construction project to complete. Our only project is to love the kids of Hope Unlimited, period. Since this is their winter break from school and many of them can't go home to a family, we will take those kids to a retreat center where we will play hard and love even harder. We're going to cheer them on and pack their days with endless activities; from Ultimate Frisbee to face painting, we want to fill the love tanks of the kids of Hope Unlimited to overflowing.

Would you consider praying for a few things?

First, pray for the team: Jonathan and Steve, our fearlees leaders, and then for Alex, Amy, Ana Maria, Cara, Chelsea, Dan, Fer, Gerald, Henry, Jess, Jonathan, Jorge, Julia, Karen, Kelly, Kim, Kristen, Laurie, Leonardo, Lindsay, Mark, Morie, Naiza, Natalia, Nate, Rho, and Tanya. Yes, it is a BIG team!

Second, pray that the team just beams God's love and that the kids are touched and changed while they are at camp. Pray that the team members are sensitive to any fragility we may see and that it becomes clear to the kids that we are their family, who traveled 10 hours to spend a week with them.

Third, pray for traveling mercies and that we make it through customs without any problems.

Lastly, pray for the times of worship. We serve the same God so pray for a unity in spirit as we participate with them, regardless of any language barriers.

Hopefully we will have internet access and be able to update the blog while down at camp so you can keep up with us and continue to pray as needs arise!

Feb 2011: One Last Thought

As we sift through our memories, share our photos, and tell the stories, we are still realizing the imprint Brazil left on our hearts. Some of us are deciding when we will go back; others of us are wondering if we should have ever returned home. But there's no doubt that the work of Hope Unlimited not only changes the lives of the street kids in Brazil but also those who come to serve.

Maybe you've heard our stories and want to make a plan of action. For you, that may mean giving to Hope Unlimited. It may also mean you will go and serve. But most of all, we hope you will all pray; pray for the kids whose lives are changed, pray for the staff as they continue to seek wisdom in how to best serve the kids, and pray for the financial support that is so greatly needed. Hope Unlimited has many needs but they rely on God and God's people to help meet those needs. Prayerfully consider how you may want to help.

Big Jon, aka Third Jon, aka Smack Jon is leading a team in July. They will be going down to take the Hope kids to a retreat center, where they will have four days to renew their spirits, build unity, and have some good ole fun. Please pray for him and his team as they make the preparations.

We leave you with one last thought: Do you hear that voice? Is God telling you to go? Call the church and get in touch with Jon Leonard to find out the details. You will not be disappointed.

Feb 2011: The Last Day

Well, the work is finished. We worked hard today to get the space ready for the dedication service. There were a few challenges but nothing that God couldn't handle. As the children entered the newly renovated space, they were greeted with our smiling faces, cheers, and loud music. They in turn greeted us with hugs, kisses and many "Obrigado". It was quite emotional to see the kids thank us for the work we did all the while we were thanking them for sharing their lives with us. We got a chance to worship with them tonight and were blessed as their worship team played and sang with ours. The words to "God Of This City" truly resonated with our spirits.

As we reflect on the past 10 days, we've each taken away something different. Find out what those things are below as well as some new nicknames we've picked up on this trip: (The guidelines were to write 2-3 sentences each, but with all we've experienced this week, it was difficult for some of us to sum them up using so few words!)

Kevin Robertson (aka Ned Flanders, aka The Peacemaker)- Tonight was full of joy and tears. Joy in that we were able to improve the kids of Hope Unlimited's worship space and thereby enhance their lives, and tears that we will leave after being touched by their love and sincere appreciation. There is nothing to compare with the presence of God as seen through the eyes of the least of these. No matter how much we give to them by way of our physical help and encouragement, we always receive more love and hugs than we can contain. I always consider it a privilege to serve on the PAC mission trips. As Jesus told us, "It is more blessed to give than to receive". However, when you see how these children respond to our smiles and physical presence, you will realize you are on the receiving end.

Susan Robertson (aka The Recruiter, aka The one who has met her OCD match in KRod) - This was my 5th trip to Brazil and each trip is better than the one before. As far as accomplishing the work project we came to bless Hope with, this has been the most productive. God seemed to give me power and strength beyond my natural ability. I came away with a clearer vision ability to accomplish the work He set before us. Each night's sleep was so sound- unlike anything I ever experienced at home. I came away with a clearer vision of what God has for my husband and me concerning our involvement with Hope Unlimited. What a blessing to know and work along side people like Philip and Corienne Smith, Pastor William, Pastor Derli, Clovis, and Kara.

Joel Koenigsberg- (aka Big Jon's cuddle buddy)- God will provide all that I need. I have so much to learn about following Him and living by faith, not by sight. The body of Christ is beautiful. R$8,25 ($5) will mean more to me than before.

Conrad Plimpton- (aka Sao Conhado)- Amazing grace we accomplished so much; for our spiritual journal and our leadership. Amazing grace for our health and energy, continually tested by extreme heat, humidity, and constant work. Amazing grace for our oneness in spirit, helping and holding up each other in action and prayer.

Janet Black- (aka Martha, aka The Patient One, aka the Drill Sergeant)- "God doesn't called the equipped; He equips the called." This phrase was spoken by Pastor Derli during Sunday evening service at the Graduate Church. This statement was without a doubt demonstrated throughout the week. Amazing work was completed, and amazing love was given.

Karen Rodriguez (aka "Muito Boing", aka Still remains the diva)- There's nothing better than rejoicing with those who have just come out of their sorrow, into the morning. It's going to take me a long time to process all of my experiences from this week. I definitely learned that it's not about what we came here to do, but who we came to do it for. Jesus didn't just walk around, performing miracles and then retreating to his home for the night. He was out, with people, all the time. He was building relationships and then meeting the needs of those who needed him. Being a very task-oriented person, I was very excited to come down to Hope Unlimited, get to work and give kids, kids who I didn't even know, a new space for school and worship. Had we not had all the time we did to build relationships with the kids first, get to know their stories and see their hearts, the work would have been more of something I could say I accomplished, something I could check off of my list. But when you know the kids and then hear them thank you profusely for all your hard work, you know whose work you came here to do.

Jonathan Leonard- (aka Conrad the Second, aka Third Jon, aka Big Jon)- Coming down to Hope reminds me of what it truly means to do God's work. From the staff all the way down to the kids, Hope Unlimited is a picture perfect example of how all things are possible when God is at the center of it.

Sandra Smith- (aka Stressed to be the Diva's roommate, aka Still afraid she will get frisked at the airport)- In the busyness of a week in a different country, language, and culture, God has a way of opening you up, stretching you, and giving you times to experience new things. On this trip, God put certain children on my heart. Even though these children are so young and have gone through so much, they show so much love. You can see the transforming work of God in their lives. It makes me want to see this deep transformation in my life and one that others can see and feel from me.

Laura Kelly- (aka The Paparazzi, aka Cage Free)- This trip has shown me how people can be transformed by God's love, provision and grace. Interacting with the children has been an enlightening and enjoyable experience as they have inspired me to be a better person. It is a privilege to be able to give back to others what God has given me.

Jonathan Charles Johnson- (aka The Geek, aka Second Jon, aka JC)- My greatest impression from our trip has been meeting one of the recent graduates and her sister. Both were able to speak English so it was easier to get their story: They came from a home with a father not present, a mother who died from cancer, and the older sister successfully starving herself to death and despairing, wishing to die. God steps in with the feet and hands and heart of Hope Unlimited and rescues these two sisters with their little brother from despair to hope, joy, love, and dreams. The older sister has dreams and hopes for the future and no longer wishes to die. She wants to live, and live for Christ.

John Mathew- (aka First John, aka Brasileiro John) This was my first missions trip. I was told that God changes people through serving in mission trips. I was also told that I would fall in love with the kids that I meet. I had a hard time believing either of these statements. I can honestly say that I've found both statements to be true. In my heart, I see the faces and the smiles of the kids that I met whose life has been transformed by the saving grace of God through people who were willing. I also remember the tears from having to say goodbye. God has blessed me and this team with the privilege of meeting some awesome kids and the staff of Hope Unlimited. I know my life will never be the same. A few of my memorable moments from the trip:

- Sao Conjado's dance 

- Karina's (KRod's) fall at the mall: "Muito Boing" 

- The birthday outings with the kids and their immense appreciation for being able to get $5 to spend 

- Juliana taking lots of pictures with my camera and, then after seeing her picture, asking if she can delete it since she didn't think she looked pretty 

- The joyful face of each child at Hope Unlimited as they were worshipping God - Leading worship with Pastor William and the kids from Hope Unlimited 

- The hugs from each child as they were crying knowing that we won't see each other after today  

Even though we started out as 11 strangers, our focused and common goal for the week created a tremendous bond. We set out to be a blessing but we know that we were blessed far more in return. What an honor it was to be here for ten days and show God's love to kids whose only desire is to be loved. We are coming back to NJ with new eyes and more open hearts to those whose hope is truly unlimited. 

Feb 2011: Nearing the finish line...

Many of us have sore backs and tired eyes but joyful hearts. The work we did today was very productive, difficult, and rewarding. The auditorium is coming together so well. Our short list of tasks for tomorrow will need to be finished by 3:00 because we will dedicate the space in a service with all the kids.

The Interior Decorators finished painting the base coat as well as 160 circles on the walls, they put up 160 window curtains, drilled 160 holes in the concrete for the fabric on the front of the stage, stapled 160,000 staples to hold up the fabric on the stage and spent 160 reais on a last minute run to the store. The Geek Squad ran 160 cables from the sound room to the lighting and sound equipment while Joel played "Hosanna" 160 times to tune the system. They spent 160 hours configuring the sound room and labeling the 160 wires for the staff of Hope Unlimited. Ok, so some of this is an exaggeration but the back-breaking work we completed today really prepared us for the celebration we will have when we dedicate the new space tomorrow afternoon.

As we met for our daily devotionals after lunch, we shared some stories from the week and prayed for some of those kids who found their way into our hearts: Larissa, Shirley, Julianna, Marianna, Layra, Gabriella, Vitoria, Camilla, Arlinda, Dalane, Casa 5… We shared our personal stories but also the effect the week's events had on us individually. It was great to hear how we all had different moments throughout the week that moved us. It also helped us remember everything we experienced this week.

Although there will be great rejoicing that the work we came to do is finished, it will be the toughest night for us because we will have to say goodbye to those whom we came to serve and those whom we grew to love.

Feb 2011: Feliz Aniversario!

How do you get to spend your birthday? Do you get to go out with your family to a nice restaurant? Do they shower you with love, affection, and gifts in many forms? Do you get to pick any cake you want and have people sing to you? Does your dad sing the birthday

song to you a week before your birthday and continues to sing it even after your birthday like my dad does? Do you treat yourself to a day at the spa and squeeze in a little "Me time"? Maybe you anxiously await the many surprises your loved ones spring on you throughout the day.

Some of the children that come to Hope Unlimited don't even know when their birthday is and therefore have never celebrated it. Imagine being 12 years old and never being recognized for your accomplishments by a family who loves you. The kids here at Hope experience their "first" birthday when they arrive. This organization does a wonderful thing every month. They coordinate a birthday outing for any kids who have celebrated a birthday in the past month. They take the kids for a night out where they get to do things like eat out at a Burger king or McDonalds and see a movie, perhaps play at the arcade but definitely get a birthday present. These are 6-16 year olds who experience these things for the first time when they arrive at Hope Unlimited.

The boys outing was Monday night. A few team members got to experience it and see the excitement in the boys' eyes as they were given "credit cards" for the arcade, as they enjoyed a special birthday dessert at the mall and then eat dinner at Burger King where they were given a Whopper, fries and a milkshake. Such simple pleasures that we take for granted sent these boys to the moon. Their smiles were as big and wide as the ocean. What was even more touching were the hugs and thanks given at the end of the night. They were just

so grateful for the night out and the willingness of people to love them and treat them special.

The girls' outing was tonight. When we got to the mall to meet up with them, we started the evening by taking them shopping in Walmart to spend 8 reais which equates to about $5. They shopped for candy and tasty treats to enjoy for themselves. I can't imagine

a parent in the United States saying to a 15 year old girl, "Here's $5. Happy Birthday!!" What was heart-wrenching for us was helping the girls calculate the total so they can stay within budget. At the end of the night, if they went over, they would have to choose

what to keep and what to put back. Every one of us wanted to tell them to take as much as they want without worrying about the budget, especially knowing that this was the first time shopping for many of them. But, we knew that would not help them in their spiritual and

emotional development.

After Walmart we went to Burger King where each girl got a Whopper, fries and a shake, just like the boys. They then went to the arcade with a few tokens and lastly, went to a movie. The love they poured on us was much more than what they received in gifts. All they wanted to do was give us hugs and kisses and spend time with us. They didn't just run off to do their own things with the allotment they received, but they wanted to be near the adults who just loved them on their birthday. Some even shared what little they purchased with us. It was quite touching.

The next time you get to celebrate a birthday and are about to blow out the candles on your cake, make a wish for the children at Hope Unlimited. They could use an extra measure of grace.

Feb 2011: The work has begun

This is what we came to do: paint the auditorium, outfit it with new and updated sound and lighting equipment and give the place a fresh feel for the fresh start many of the students get in their own lives when they arrive at Hope Unlimited.

Our team is broken up into two groups: The Interior Decorators and the Geek Squad. Those on the Interior Decorators team are designing a contemporary and inviting space. We started today by peeling away chipped and water-damaged paint, sanding and spackling the walls, re-upholstering the seats, painting, and revamping the stage by covering the back wall in 160 rolls of drapery. The Geek Squad is in charge of removing old electrical equipment, rewiring the room, installing the new speaker, sound and lighting systems and making sure everything is up and running by Friday. It was a great day of progress and it gave us a great start to completing the work in the next few days.

We were honored once again to spend the evening with the girls in their residences, aka the girls' ranch, where we enjoyed yet another home cooked meal. Each one of us had the chance to continue to build the relationships we have with the girls. It was bittersweet because we knew this would be the last time we could have such individualized time with them, although we knew we would see them again by the end of the week when we dedicate the new auditorium on Friday. There's no doubt that the girls will leave an even bigger hole in our hearts as we will soon have to say goodbye.

Feb 2011: Change is on its way!

This morning, we first got a tour of the City of Youth, where all the children of Hope Unlimited attend school, worship and where the boys reside. It was tremendous to see the facilities as well as hear about the many opportunities the students are given once they graduate. We saw the different subject area classrooms and also the vocational courses the children can opt to take in order to prepare for their futures. We got to partake of the goodies the culinary school prepared as well as see the computer lab and the cosmetology program. The kids that attend here are being fully prepared to head into bright futures.

As part of the tour, we saw a house where 8 boys live and met Daniel, who supervises the residential area. As Janet explains: " Imagine a home where a father, mother, and their immediate children live along side 8 additional boys. These 8 boys come from situations that I cannot begin to describe. The host family serves as God's instrument by demonstrating unconditional love, structure, and balance for those that pass through their front door. As a result of these cornerstones, the boys experience stability, love, and instruction. With minimal personal belongings, and very few conveniences, these lives are knit together in such a way that cannot be undone. Boys' lives are changed, and generations are impacted. While I imagined the boys receive the greatest blessing from this arrangement, the host family believes they are the recipients of the greatest blessing. They speak highly of the boys and savor every opportunity to pour into their lives." Needless to say, Daniel's testimony moved many of us on the team. His passion and love for Christ, the boys, and his work with the boys was so inspirational.

We also heard from Adriana, who is one of the social workers on the campus. As one team member, Conrad, put it, "The testimony of the spiritually alive social worker who (spoke) of the saving work of the local Presbyterian church in helping her illiterate, widowed mother support her destitute family... (and then) earn her social worker degree to rescue others and bring hope in Christ, where heartless social workers could not." Her story was powerful and really showed us how God uses each and every one of the staff members.

After an emotional morning, we went to the auditorium to look at the space we are going to transform and started plans on how we were going to accomplish the many goals we had in front of us. As we unpacked all the supplies from our 160 large suitcases and laid out our plans, the months of planning and praying started to become realized.

Feb 2011: A day of challenges

Today, we had a unique opportunity to spend time with those who have graduated from the Hope Unlimited program. It was a great honor to encourage them and build their self esteem through our activities and by spending time with them, showing an interest in their lives and futures.

As a team, we have experienced a deep level of trust and respect for each other. Among the many ways we have built this sense of community was through our experience at a ropes course this afternoon. As we individually struggled through the many difficult challenges, nearly falling to our tragic deaths, we were there for each other, encouraging each other on to the finish. At the end, as we flew down the zip line, there were team members there, cheering us on, as we completed this tremendous task. It created such a bond and a sense of unity in our group and with the graduates. It prepared us for the many challenges and tasks we will need to complete this coming week, as we begin the work on the auditorium in the boys' ranch.

Later this evening, as we celebrated with the graduate church, honoring their sixth anniversary, we were again challenged that God doesn't call those who are already equipped but He equips those who are willing to be chosen by Him. It was an encouragement and affirmation because it helped us to focus on the fact that no matter our abilities, as long as we are willing to be used, God will give us the tools we need to accomplish what He's put before us.

Feb 2011: Jessica, Sandra, Lucia, Layra, Dalayne, Danielle, Larissa...

This morning was spent with Pierre in a needed hour and a half private Portuguese lesson. He immersed us in the language in preparation to better communicate with the kids we would see later in the day.

We spent the afternoon at the girls' ranch, a place where 84 girls share 6 houses and openly heal from their damaging pasts. Each girl found a way into our hearts by showing us their talents, asking about our personal lives, and teaching us their games and songs. The girls made us lunch and the team split into the 6 houses to get to know them in our very broken Portuguese and their broken English. But somehow, we communicated in such a deep way that the girls just left their footprints on our hearts.

After spending the day with the girls, we went to the boys' ranch for the worship service. Some of the team members actually got to lead worship. What a tremendous and life changing moment to hear more than 150 kids worshipping the same God in Brazil that we worship in Princeton. And to see kids, who have lived through some of the worst tragedies, lift their hands in glorious worship was an overwhelming and humbling, yet thrilling experience.

After worshipping tonight, we were spoiled with the opportunity to eat at a churrascaria, where we were served endless portions of 160 different types of meat (some of which we won't mention here) as well as a dessert buffet. YUM!

In addition to the culinary blessing, we actually learned that we gain an extra hour tonight. So until tomorrow, we will savor the memories created today and cherish them as we drift into a good night's sleep.

Boa noite!

Feb 2011: Nós estamos bon

Today, nine people who hardly knew each other, headed to Campinas, Brazil, united in purpose to minister to the children of Hope Unlimited; united because of the One we all serve. We made it to the hotel by 1:00 AM without too much of a hassle. We passed through immigration and customs with sound, music and lighting equipment which we had to break down and pack in our suitcases. We weren't sure if they would let us in with everything, but God was with us, and we breezed right through. We weren't able to bring the subwoofers, but by God's grace, Karen Rodriguez, who took the red eye later that evening, was able to bring them with her. It has been an exhausting day but we hardly had time to notice because we were so excited about the prospect and privilege of serving God by blessing the children of Hope Unlimited.

Besides the work we came to accomplish, we have had the added blessing of enjoying the many natural pleasures that Brazil has to offer: the fresh mango and papaya for breakfast, the warm summer days filled with the sweet scent and bright colors of the many wild tropical flowers: purples, reds, fuchsia, orange and yellow. And if that weren't enough to bless us, this was all followed up with cool breezes flowing through the palm trees in the evening.

If you decide to join us for our next mission trip, don't be afraid to pack a few dressy outfits. Brazilians love to dress up.

As we prepare for the week ahead, our request for those who are reading our blog is to keep the kids here, our team and our families in prayer. Here are the team members:

1) Kevin Robertson: Team leader

2) Susan Robertson: The realtor: "mi casa es su casa" and the team leader's wife

3) Joel Koenigsberg: The drink pusher, aka Cup Quality Inspector, aka team leader 2 and project leader

4) Conrad Plimpton: world traveler

5) Janet Black: the biggest U. of Tennessee fan. "Bless Your Heart", Word of advice: never mention UConn when she's around.

6) Karen Rodriguez: aka KRod, aka "The Diva", aka "Fireproof"

7) Jonathan Leonard: aka "Smack John",

8) Sandra Smith: "bom-bom-bom-bom" aka "the one who got frisked at the airport"

9) Laura Kelly: the pescatarian

10) Jonathan Johnson, aka "Snack John"

11) John Mathew: aka "Black John" aka "Native American John"

God Moments

During story time in the VBS, the teacher told that one of the little girls was very shy and rarely talked because of things that had happened to her in the past. The teacher encouraged Barb to ask the little girl her name and get her to talk. She would not speak throughout the bulk of story time; however, at the very end, right before the kids left, she whispered to, “Meu nome e Julia.” (“My name is Julia.”)

Half of the VBS team went to a local community church in the favela to help the pastor with church building. As Barb and Shaun were walking with the wheelbarrow, they saw one of the little boys from the preschool who had attended the morning session of VBS. That day the craft that they made was a sock puppet. As the boy walked down the dirt road with his mother and little sister, she was using the sock puppet, which he had made for her, and moving its mouth as if it was talking to him.

Birthdays, Birthdays, Birthdays!!!!!! Let’s celebrate…

Tonight we did something incredible with some of the boys from the City of Youth. Philip Smith, the director, explained to us the importance of the birthday outing for the boys and girls. Every month, there are two birthday outings, one with the boys and another with the girls that are born in that month. It is so important to the kids because some of them have never celebrated their birthdays. In fact, some do not even know when their birthdays are. During the outing, the kids are taken to the mall and they get to look in the electronics store and play arcade games. These things that we take for granted, these things that we’re bored with, these kids are overjoyed at the opportunity they have once a year.

Another part of the birthday outing was going to Walmart. The children were given 8,00 reals, converting to about $5.00 to spend. It was incredible to see the kids being overly content with so little. Some of the things that we look at as necessities are more money than they have to spend all year. As Philip described, “Some of these boys have never even been to a mall in their lives. Things like riding up and down the escalator are a novelty to the boys.” As our team sat around the table to listen to Philip as he shared each of their stories, we were deeply moved by how God’s love and faithfulness has given the boys a second chance at the City of Youth. For example, one boy, a recent graduate, has been living at the City of Youth for seven years. When he was rescued, he was living on the streets because his father was in prison, his mother abandoned him, and there was a death warrant issued against the boy. However, God provided a second chance and transformed his life. Today he was celebrating his last birthday outing at with the City of Youth because on Saturday he is moving into the graduate house!!!

Primero dia de VBS na Nova Mae (Pre-school)

It is amazing to see God work even in the youngest of children. Today was the first day of VBS for the little meninos from one of the largest favelas (slums) in Sao Paulo, Brasil. The children were able to participate in action songs, arts and crafts, games, and story time.

At story time, the kids learned about Creation through actions by Christian Bonilla and enthusiastic reading by Barbara Soares, it was very interactive. The favorite part of the reading was calling out the different kinds of animals that God made. They also enjoyed making the sun, moon, and stars all through actions.

Awesome!!!

Parachute games were a huge hit! One little boy named Gabriel kept yelling to his teacher, “Legal! Muito legal!” (“Awesome! Very awesome!”) They were all so fascinated by something so simple that it was incredibly touching to witness the joy in their hearts.

Another kool part of the day was the arts and crafts. The kids used googly eyes and tissue paper to create a fish with a saying “God made everything!” It was really cool to see the kids walking out with their fish in hands and pride in eyes.

During music, the kids were able to share all of their favorite songs with Leslie Dee and Isabelle Villiere. Then, when they sang a new Christian song in Portuguese all together, all of the children showed off their impressive dancing skills.

In reflecting on the experiences of the first day of VBS, it reminded me of what Jesus said in Mark 9:36 “Whoever welcomes one of these children in my name welcomes me.” By ministering to the preschoolers, we are attempting to fulfill the mission of the preschool itself to break the cycle of poverty, abuse, and drug addiction.

Hoje foi maravilosso!!!

We toured the City of Youth campus where the boys live; the children attend school, and receive vocational training. Pastor Derli shared his heart and passion for the children as he explained the hopes and greater vision he has for the organization.

Summary of Pastor Derli’s Conversation with Our Team

How and why do children come to the City of Youth (Boys Campus) or the Chacara (Girls ranch)?

The Brazilian Children’s Court decides the placement of each child after investigating their family situation, emotional well-being, and physical health. Many of the children are placed at the City of Youth or Chacara because they are in imminent danger as a result of abuse, drugs, poverty, neglect, or abandonment. Often parents are unable to take care of their children or don’t want to.

What kinds of vocational opportunities are given to the kids?

Vocation training gives an added advantage to the kids in finding a good career, they get a basic introduction in Cosmetology, Computers (hardware, software and networking), Cooking and Baking, Music, Auto Body works like denting, painting and repairing and then are given a complete course of their choice.

Is there anything you want to share that particularly touched your heart?

These two, beautiful boys, were brought to the City of Youth after being rescued. Their step father was a drug trafficker and when he was released from jail, the boys’ lives were at risk when he threatened to recruit them to traffic drugs for him. While at the City of Youth, the boys visited regularly with their grandmother whom they were particularly fond of. The boys were happy and well adjusted. Then suddenly, everything changed. The stepfather was overheard by a neighbor promising to find the boys no matter where they were. In fear for their safety, the neighbor reported this to the authorities, who together with staff from City of Youth made a decision to bring the boys to Hope Mountain campus in Victoria for the boys’ protection. However, Victoria is a great distance from the City of Youth and from where their grandmother lives. Because of this, their grandma was unable to visit them and stay in contact in the same way. This broke the hearts of both boys and they struggled at first to get readjusted.However, recently I visited them and they asked me to bring back a few letters for their grandma. I asked one of the boys if I could read the letter and he agreed. In the letter, the boy described to his grandma how he was doing well and how much he missed her. He also shared how he was learning to cook in one of his classes and that he learned how to make his favorite dish… The dish his grandma always made for him. It brought tears to my eyes thinking about how their story is similar to that of many of the kids that here, but the hope for their future is alive.

Is there anything specific you would like us to pray for?

Recently, the city government proposed a plan to replace places like City of Youth with smaller foster homes. However, this is against our beliefs of how kids’ lives are transformed. We believe that rebuilding and rehabilitation is best when the children are introduced to peers who have been here and are doing well.

Arrived Safe

We arrived!!! Safe, excited, and ready to rock and roll… Today we will rest, plan for the week’s events, and build relationships with each other during our dinner at the “All you can eat pizza” buffet.

Estamos indo para o Brasil!!! (We are going to Brazil!!)

Sunday, August 15

“God will work in each of our hearts to show us the things that break his heart. He will open our eyes so that we can be transformed,” Steve Mayer, one of our team leaders, shared this morning as we were commissioned by church before our 4:00 departure to JFK.

Tonight our team embarks on a journey to Hope Unlimited in Sao Paulo, Brazil where we plan to lead a vacation bible school program at a pre-school and to repair, restore, and paint the facilities at the City of Youth, boy’s campus. Although we are honored to serve in these ways, it is the work that God will do inside each of us that will change us forever. We praise God for the amazing things He has in store and are thankful for the opportunity we have been given to serve in this capacity. We pray for strength, humility, and that we remain focused on Him so that He can work within our hearts and through our hands to bring His love to others.

Things to pray for:

· Please pray that God brings comfort and peace to our team member, Conrad, and his family during this difficult time. Our hearts are with Conrad and his family and we are deeply sorry for the loss of his beloved son.

· We depart from JFK tonight and land in Sao Paulo tomorrow morning. Please pray for our safe arrival in Brazil and that we are able to get through customs easily.

· Please pray that God continues to grow our faith by opening our hearts, eyes, and souls to what He has prepared for each of us on.

*Stay tuned… Next update will be from Brasil!!!!