Monday, February 04, 2008 – From the Helm

9:30 AM - Arrived in Niteroi at 5 PM yesterday.  We were welcomed in beautiful fashion.  The Chief, Anizio, and his entire community were on the shores to receive us.  Many, many children…

This community is hosting another community for medical and dental services.  The patient load will be large because we only scheduled one day at this location.

We were asked to have services last night and we did.  The community center was packed.  Terry spoke on Jesus’ parables of the coins, sheep and the Prodigal Son.  The house was attentive.  When the invitation was given, dozens came to the front making various decisions and requests for prayer – what a night.

Chief Anizio has been newly appointed here.  The old Chief had no male heirs and no sons-in-law that he felt were trustworthy to lead his clan.  So, Anizio was given the position.  Rather odd situation due to the fact that Anizio is of the Tucano Tribe, transplanted by marriage to the Mundurucu Nation.  For sure, this is something God devised.  He is a strong, humble leader.  I look forward to the relationship that is developing between us.

All teams were on location by 8 this morning.  All began smoothly – our crew aboard the Beatriz needs no instruction.  It’s all automatic.  I thank God for them.  Most have been with me for at least 8 years.  Some, as many as 17 years – good team…

5:45 PM – We just pulled away from Niteroi.  A beautiful day indeed.  The medical and dental teams treated all who came with a need – no one left in line.  Our construction crew built a “mobile home”, of sorts, to be used for housing and concessions.  VBS had ninety children and adults in attendance.  The women’s ministry was packed with ladies, young and old alike.  All in all, a good first day on location.  At the closing service a few minutes ago, the folks who came forward last night joined six more in accepting Christ – 26 in all.  That’s what it’s all about

We are underway to our next destination, Cobras (Snakes).  We plan to seek out a safe harbor in which to anchor in an hour or two. 

The day has been good – better than I would have dared to plan it.  It was just how God meant it to be.  For that, I am grateful.

<a href="http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&ll=-4.733333,-59.233333&spn=0.186314,0.236893&t=h&z=12&om=1">we are here</a>