Day 6 - Worship services with the Portuguese

Abrte os olhos do meu coracao, Senhor

Open the eyes of my heart, Lord

Abrte os olhos do meu coracao,

Open the eyes of my heart,

Eu quero ver-Te

I want to see you

Eu quero ver-Te

I want to see you

We visited three churches today: Amadora—the African church, Massama—the newer church plant, and Lores—the “mother” church. We sang the above song at the Massama and Lores churches. Singing it in Portuguese made the words come alive. In fact, as our team member Elizabeth said, “Music is the international language.”

Each church had its own feel, but all three were vibrant in their own way. James preached at all three services. Grant shared his testimony at two of them. Not only did we feel welcome, we were made to feel that we were part of the family. And yes we are, since we’re all in the family of God. Language differences aside, there were all kinds of conversations going on…whether in Portuguese, English, or “sign” language. 

Marques is a gifted musician and led singing in the Amadora and Lores churches. He and another man sang the song  “Lean on Me” to Doug and Myra Gentry as they will be returning to the states this week. They are the couple who have been helping Otto and Marjorie for the past two years. Phil went to Marques afterwards and said, “You have a beautiful voice.” And Marquez said, “You have beautiful feet,” referring to Phil’s unusual shoes that look like a glove for your foot and show each individual toe.

All in all it was a great day. Everyone was energized by worshipping with our fellow Portuguese Christians.

Tomorrow will be a preparation day for the English Camp and Summer Youth Camp which will run Tuesday – Saturday. Thanks for your ongoing prayers. We have been busy, but this next week will have even increased ministry demands.

Sheryl, for the rest of the team

Pic #1 - Youth of Amadora Church leading worship - let's just say there was a whole lot of dancing going on!

Pic #2 - James preaching at Amadora Church

Pic #3 - Lunch with Massama Church (no shortage of food here - and it is all amazing. notice the Coke - they have good taste here)

Pic #4 - Marques and team leading music at Lores church