On our journey home, we spent a day with Clenildo and Angelita, who are helping Steve and Elba plant a church in the metropolis of Belem. Their ministry is gaining momentum. They recently celebrated their second baptism service, launched a water filter project to bless surrounding communities, and their current meeting space is already filled to capacity.

Belem Church Plant Update

Clenildo shared how he encouraged the congregation to invite friends to church—though he gently reminded them that it might mean giving up their own seat! Every spot is taken, a sign of God’s work in their midst.

One visitor’s story particularly moved them. “I am an Uber driver,” he told Clenildo. “One day, I was giving a lady a ride, and we got to talking. I shared how discouraged I felt, being new to the city and unable to find a church where I truly belonged. As we neared her destination, we drove past this very church. She pointed at it and said, ‘There is your church.’”

Excited, he and his wife attended that Sunday, and from the moment they walked through the doors, they felt at home. Now, they are trying to find that woman—to thank her for directing them to the place God had prepared for them.

Clenildo and the team see this as more than just a coincidence. It’s evidence that God is stirring hearts, drawing people in, and building His church. The buzz in the city is growing, and they trust that many more will be led through their doors—just as this man was.