Prison

    Hi again,

  Since our last post on Monday, it has been neat to join in on a couple small group bible studies in Rio do Sul and Lontras. We sang some songs(in Portuguese) and people from the group shared problems, encouragements, and prayer requests. Chase and I shared our testimonies and gave a little message on James 1:2-3. There was a recovering crack addict at one of the groups that had just gotten out of a 6-month Christian rehab center. He had gone to two other 6-month rehabs prior to the latest one where he relapsed both times. It was very encouraging to see that he had accepted Christ in his last rehab and is now living with his pastor and growing in Christ.

  In Lontras, there is a policeman that goes to the church there. On Wednesday, we got to go into a Rio do Sul school to have him give a presentation on drugs and alcohol and also to stress the importance of belief in God. Unfortunately, our time got cut in half so we were only able to share half of the presentation. Fortunately, we got invited to come back next week again so hopefully that works out. Later on into the day, Johnny took us to a the youth prison in Rio do Sul that he visits every Wednesday. We got to meet with kids from the age of 14-18 that are in there for anything from drug-dealing to attempted murder. We shared what the U.S. is like and how our lives have been affected by Christ. We had a prayer at the end and encouraged them to read the bibles that Johnny has given them. They seemed rather interested, which was really cool, so I ask you all to pray for these kids and for Johnny's ministry with them.

  Yesterday was the first Brazil game, so you can guess there was flags everywhere in store windows and hanging from houses. We went over to our friend Gabbi's house to watch the opening ceremony and game with some friends and family. Thankfully Brazil won, so we had a good rest of the evening with some amazing food. Churrasco and Ice Cream always slide nicely down the gullet. :)

  Lastly, we are very much appreciative for your thoughts and prayers and we hope that they do not cease. We once again hope this blog encourages you to live out your mission as a Christ follower and to grow in His love everyday.

                                                 Thanks,

                                                                Skyler