God says in His Word “So I take pleasure in weaknesses, insults, catastrophes, persecutions, and in pressures, because of Christ. For when I am weak, then I am strong.” Galatians 12:10 God’s supernatural strength has been so evident throughout our time here in Curitiba. The times that we have felt weak, God has shown up and given us strength to continue on in His work. On our first day of ministry we went to a school and helped paint the outside wall and playground. On the same day many students brought joy to children by playing soccer with them! The next day we went to a day care and helped the ministry with projects such as painting and cleaning toys. It has been a huge blessing and encouragement to be together as one class once again! Day 3 in Curitiba was awesome! We had the opportunity to wash children’s feet and place brand new shoes on them as they heard about God’s love. After this touching and humbling time we journeyed on a boat for nearly three hours. During this time I was reminded of those in the Bible who spent time in boats like Jesus, Jonah, and the disciples. We arrived at the island of Paranagua and experienced God’s majestic creation as we worshipped together that night. While on the island we spread God’s love to the adults and children through soccer, kids programming, cleaning houses, and a church service. We also spent time in fellowship at a waterfall and swimming hole on Day 4 before traveling again to a new location. On Day 5 we served Templo Batista, a church near the beach, through painting, weeding, and spending time with the children. Day 6 included more traveling by bus and by ferry to arrive back to the hotel where we reunited. Today, Day 7, we are spending time to debrief the trip and evaluate how we have functioned as a team. We are so excited about the work that God has done not only in Curitiba but also in Brasilia, Sao Paulo, and Porto Alegre! We are also excited to be coming home TOMORROW! Thank you for praying for us through this adventure! Your prayers have held us up and we, the weak, have been made strong through prayer, through Christ, and through you! God Bless! – Janelle Lanning
