Brethren Global Partners Update - January 2021

 

Spain

David and Cecilia, along with their sons, Nicolás and Lucas, are still working hard to spread the Gospel message even though restrictions make it difficult. This update came from Cecilia on December 7th:

Every first week of the month we continue to have a week of fasting and prayer for our families, the church, the city of Coria and villages around. We finish Sunday praying for the persecuted church and with Santa Cena, although the latter we can not celebrate due to Covid-19 safety issues. We thank our sisters and brothers from different parts of the world for being part of this through their prayers and offerings. Sending all our love to each one of you and praying for blessings and for your lives.

You can send greetings to the Molina Family with an email to: dycmolina@gmail.com

Philippines

In November the church in the Philippines was dealing with a second major typhoon to hit that country during the season. The first was a super typhoon. It left many homes and businesses flooded and people in need. The second one was lighter, but brought even more rain and flooding. The Brethren churches were busy working with others to help their communities where ever they could. Even now, they ask that you continue to pray for the recovery from these typhoons.


As the country begins to open back up in the midst of this pandemic, The Brethren Church, led by Gary Castro, is slowly opening up for in-person services. They also continue to broadcast their services online for all who can’t get to church. Recently they held their annual planning meeting, looking ahead to their ministry during 2021.

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Paraguay

We continue to hear of amazing things happening in Paraguay. As I reported in July, they had started ministering to the small barrio of Ypani where they were feeding about 185 people daily. That number has grown to over 800 people as the need is so great. Extra funds were sent to them for this ministry. Also, I reported that because of the love of the Brethren from Asunción, the people of Ypani desired to have a church where they could gather to worship together. That is becoming a reality as they have received some land and they have started constructing a basic place for worship in their community.

                   

Additionally, the Brethren Church in Asunción has started similar work in Iuque (AyeUnKay). This is an area near the Asunción Airport. It is certainly an exciting time in the Brethren Church of Paraguay.

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Puerto Maldonado

Our Good Shepherd Orphanage had a special celebration for family and friends on Christmas. They were glad to be together for a wonderful meal.


Right now Italo needs our special prayers. His cancer treatment has been sporadic because of the pandemic. The results of that are that his extremities were swelling causing much concern. This was a report that came from Rebecca’s sister on December 30th:

“I just spoke to Rebecca. Italo is up and about today for the first time since he had so much swelling after Christmas Eve. They have tickets and appointments for Lima from January 5-13. Pastor Segundo’s wife will stay with Rebecca and help with the children. The two oldest girls will be studying for the next two months to try to recover their year’s losses. David is also continuing, trying to finish his course work. My impression is that things are looking up. Thanks so much for everything.” 

On January 5th Italo and David were finally able to travel to Lima. After having some tests, it was determined that his hemoglobin was low and that he was in need of a blood transfusion. Many friends in Lima came through by donating blood and helping to get what was needed. On Sunday, January 10 Italo got the PET SCAN. This message is from David dated January 12th: “Thank you all for your support and prayers, my dad had his blood transfusion yesterday, he’s feeling much better, also gave us positive answers regarding his cancer treatment.” Please continue praying for Italo, Rebecca, David, and the children in their care.

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Argentina

Our partners in Argentina had an amazing baptism recently. One member stated that it was a good start to the week. On a Sunday afternoon in December many took this step of faith, 18 in all. As the congregation of Ministerio del Redentor, they keep seeing the Love of God!

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Peru

Pastor Luis Angel Morillas and Elena Prado both held special Christmas events for children in Ticlio Chico and Pucasana respectively, and both were overwhelmingly a resounding success. The National Office and Global Partners Team was able to help with some financing for those events.



Pastor Luis Angel reports that he is mentoring a young lady into leadership for Ticlio Chico, so that should be an amazing bit of news and ministry in the coming months.

Sympathies extended to the Miranda Family

We received word that Gladys Miranda passed away on December 30, 2020. Gladys was the wife of former Brethren pastor, Gus Miranda, and the daughter-in-law of retired missionary Juan Carlos Miranda and his wife, Maria. Please continue to prayer for this family.

Colombia

Colombia has gradually been resuming some in-person ministries but continues to use the internet to reach people. Their technology has allowed them to broadcast worship and sermons by multiple people from different locations at the same time. Pictured are Pastor Marcelo Ferreri, Adriana & Adrian Castillo, and the worship team including Milena and Jana Ferreri:



The 2019-2020 National W.M.S. project was for the renovation project at the Medellin Brethren Church. It is being used to provide space for their children’s ministry. I am hoping to be able to share pictures of the work soon. At the end of the year, we had collected just under $5,400 to be sent to them for this project. Thank you for your generous giving to the Brethren in Colombia.

India

In the Fall we received news from the Kumars that sadly two of the village pastors had passed away, one was Covid-19 related and the other was not. These faithful servants of the Lord were Rev. Gabriel K.and Pastor George K. They will be greatly missed in their villages. I was also sorry to hear that the sewing teacher passed away due to Covid-19. Most of India is still locked down during this pandemic, and because of that, the government closed churches and orphanages throughout the country in the Fall. Nirmala was forced to send the children with their parents back to their homes. She used sponsorship funds to send to these families to help them during that time. As of today, the children have not been allowed to return to the orphanage because the government has yet to give the go-ahead to anyone. Students, such as Sudhir & Latha’s children (Sherill, Samuel, and Sunisha), are able to are keeping up with their classes online, but most of the orphan children do not have that capability. Nirmala is hopeful that the children will be able to return next month. They have opened the church for limited services in Rajahmundry. We would ask you to be in prayer for Prasanth and Nirmala. Prasanth has had several medical issues over the years which continues to slow his pace of life and personal ministry down. Sudhir says that none of these issues are Covid-19 related. He has diabetic neuropathy which is often slow and progressive in nature. While we pray for a full recovery, we recognize that our bodies are not designed to last forever. On a celebratory note, Prasanth and Nirmala recently celebrated their 53rd wedding anniversary and completed their 51st year of ministry in India.

New Sewing School Launches in South Africa

By Scott Soden • June 17, 2025
The Brethren in Durban, South Africa, have launched a critical new sewing school ministry, bringing a thread of hope and opportunity to the women there. This inspiring initiative equips women with valuable skills and empowers them to establish small businesses that significantly enhance their family's well-being and economic prospects. This new ministry carries a special resonance, drawing inspiration from the incredible work being done by our partners in India. For a remarkable 48 years , the Brethren Church in India has successfully operated a similar sewing school, transforming the lives of thousands. In both contexts, these ministries aim for more than just teaching a skill; the sewing school aims to transform entire lives and families and to open hearts to the enduring hope and boundless love of Jesus Christ. The work in India has shown us just how critical these programs are. By providing women with valuable, marketable skills, these schools offer a lifeline that can keep desperate women and their families out of dangerous situations, including the horrific threat of human trafficking. It's a powerful reminder that practical help, rooted in faith, can be a shield against incredible hardship. Like its counterpart in India, we believe the new sewing school in South Africa will become a beacon of hope, bringing economic stability and introducing women to the life-changing message of the Gospel. These ministries are powerful expressions of God's love in action, creating a lasting legacy of empowered lives and flourishing communities. Your support makes these beautiful stories of transformation possible! Scott Soden Global Partners Coordinator

Philippine Brethren Celebrate Baptisms in Bocaue and Caypombo

By Scott Soden • June 17, 2025
What a truly special and joy-filled season it has been in the Philippines, as two vibrant Brethren churches in Bocaue and Caypombo celebrated public declarations of faith through baptism. These events, occurring days apart, marked profound moments of transformation and commitment to Christ, highlighting the flourishing of faith and life in The Brethren Church of the Philippines. In Bocaue, ten new believers took the powerful step of baptism, surrounded by friends, family, and the overwhelming love of their church community. It was a beautiful reminder of God’s grace in action—a fresh start and a public embrace of the eternal hope found in Jesus Christ. “Such a special and joy-filled day as we witnessed lives made new through water baptism! A group of amazing individuals took this powerful step of faith, surrounded by friends, family, and an overwhelming amount of love. It was a beautiful reminder of God’s grace and the fresh start He gives. ‘Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: the old has gone, the new is here!’ – 2 Corinthians 5:17. We’re celebrating each of you and excited for all that’s ahead!” Each life made new was a testament to God's redemptive work and the unity we share as members of His body, regardless of where we are in the world. Shortly after, JOFF (Jesus Our Firm Foundation) Caypombo Brethren Church welcomed eight new members through baptism. This congregation is barely a year old, and the atmosphere there was filled with joy and worship as the church family witnessed hearts transformed and lives renewed. As the church proclaimed with gratitude, “What a glorious day it was as we witnessed hearts transformed and lives renewed through water baptism! Heaven rejoices as our brothers and sisters boldly declared their faith in Jesus!” These words resonated with the truth of Romans 6:4: “We were therefore buried with Him through baptism into death… that we too may live a new life.” Together, these celebrations in Bocaue and Caypombo represent more than just individual milestones—they reflect a larger movement of God’s Spirit stirring across the Philippines. The commitment and faith of these new believers are a powerful reminder of why we continue to pray, serve, and give: to see lives transformed, communities strengthened, and Christ’s love embodied in tangible ways. To all who support Brethren Global Partners, know that your investment is not just fueling ministry—it’s multiplying life-changing moments like these. Through your partnership, churches are empowered, disciples are made, and the hope of the Gospel multiplies across the globe. Scott Soden Global Partners Coordinator

A Symphony of Joy! VBS in India

By Scott Soden • June 11, 2025
The sounds of laughter, singing, and the bustle of activity recently filled the air as your partners in Visakhapatnam and Rajahmundry, India, hosted their annual Vacation Bible School (VBS) gatherings! Both the Visakhapatnam and Rajahmundry churches welcomed over a hundred children who were eager to learn about Jesus and grasp His deep, unconditional love for them. These VBS programs were filled with opportunities for the kids to engage their hearts and minds, from creative arts and crafts projects that brought Bible stories to life, to shared moments of prayer, and enthusiastic song and dance sessions. Every day of the VBS was an adventure in faith. The energy was electric, culminating in a dance and music performance where the children showcased what they had learned for their families. It was a wonderful time for all involved, a joyous melody that surely filled our Heavenly Father's heart with delight! The Brethren Church in India continues to shine brightly despite various challenges and governmental pressures. They bravely share the Good News of Jesus, bringing hope and light to places where it's desperately needed. Their faithfulness is a powerful testimony. Your generosity makes these incredible ministries possible, not only in India but also in other parts of the world. Your support helps them flourish and creates a lasting legacy of faith and hope for countless others. Thank you for being so instrumental in bringing joy and transformation to so many young lives! Scott Soden  Coordinator, Brethren Global Partners

Seeds of Hope Blossom in India

By Scott Soden • June 11, 2025
India Sewing School Celebrates 48 Years of Empowerment

Colombian Brethren Celebrate Twenty-Three Baptisms

By Scott Soden • June 4, 2025
A glorious celebration unfolded on Sunday, May 18th in Medellín, Colombia, as twenty-three new believers declared their faith through baptism. This was more than just a ceremony; it was a vibrant expression of new life in Christ! The excitement of seeing these individuals step into a new life in Jesus is contagious. Each baptism is a powerful story of hope, forgiveness, and a fresh start, reminding us of the profound change that occurs when someone chooses to follow Christ. It's a beautiful picture of what it means to be part of God's family, and it underscores the vital importance of our role as members of Christ's body. Through our prayers, support, and willingness to share the Good News, we participate in these unforgettable moments of spiritual rebirth. The church in Medellín beautifully captured the spirit of the day with this powerful statement: "We have decided to follow Jesus! Today, we take a step of obedience and faith through baptism, knowing that there is nothing better than walking hand in hand with Him." This is why we serve, why we give, and why we pray – to see more lives embraced by the love of our Savior. Let us rejoice with our brothers and sisters in Medellín and be inspired by their faith to continue sharing the hope that only Jesus provides!  Scott Soden Coordinator; Brethren Global Partners

A Partnership in Hope: MDS and Summit Ridge Transform Lives in Benson, AZ

By Dan Acker • June 4, 2025
In a powerful display of community and compassion, Mennonite Disaster Service (MDS) and Summit Ridge Community Church recently joined forces to bolster Intended Hope Ministry in Benson, Arizona. For two weeks in May, dedicated volunteers from the Arizona Unit of MDS and Summit Ridge poured their energy into restoring a mobile home heavily damaged by smoke. This newly refurbished home is set to become the sanctuary for Pastor Louise Waller, beloved as Pastor Weezie, the co-director of Intended Hope. Intended Hope offers a critical lifeline: a secure haven for up to one year for women and children bravely navigating the aftermath of domestic violence. Pastor Weezie's vision extends far beyond immediate shelter. The ministry's expansive 40-acre property is slated to evolve into a thriving working farm. This ambitious plan will not only cultivate fresh, nutritious food but also provide invaluable job training, life skills development, and other essential services. The ultimate goal? To empower these women to heal, grow, and ultimately achieve lasting independence. Overwhelmed by the tangible impact of their collaboration, Pastor Weezie shared, "God is continuing to knock my socks off!" Her words reflect the profound gratitude and awe at the transformation taking place through the combined efforts of MDS and Summit Ridge. Even with more work on the horizon, Intended Hope is already providing a sanctuary for several women, a testament to the urgency and success of their mission. This impactful partnership between MDS and Summit Ridge Community Church is truly a blessing, bringing light and hope to those who need it most. Dan Acker Pastor, Summit Ridge Community Church West Regional Resource Coordinator

Colombian Brethren Gather for Men's Camping Retreat

By Scott Soden • June 4, 2025
A spirit of unity and devotion recently filled the mountains of Colombia as Brethren men from across Medellín gathered for their Annual Men's Camping Retreat! It was inspiring to see every Brethren church in Colombia represented, coming together for a time dedicated to growth, connection, and renewal. This special retreat wasn't just about getting away; it was a powerful blend of recreation, delicious food, heartfelt fellowship, in-depth Bible study, and intentional prayer. This kind of gathering is important, and reminds us how God calls men together – not just for fun, but to build one another up, sharpen each other, and stand firm in the faith. The emphasis of the retreat was fellowship and prayer, but their vision extended even further. These men prayed for their churches, the communities they serve, their denomination, and the world at large. This retreat served as a powerful reminder of God's call for men to lead with God's strength and to be a vital force for good in every area of life. Our brothers in Colombia are setting a wonderful example for us all. We are called to be men of faith who actively support and pray for one another. What if our churches here in the U.S. were to follow this inspiring model? Let's consider how we, too, can gather our men, dedicating time for fellowship, encouragement, and deep prayer–for each other, for our local churches, for the communities we are called to serve, for the entire Brethren denomination, and indeed, for the whole of the world. When men unite in God's will, the impact can be truly transformative! Scott Soden Coordinator; Brethren Global Partners

New Life Springs Forth in India on Easter Sunday

By Scott Soden • May 23, 2025
The joy of the resurrection echoed across Andhra Pradesh, India, this past Easter, as our Brethren partners celebrated the baptism of twenty-four new believers at the Rajahmundry and Visakhapatnam churches. What a powerful testament to the living hope found in Jesus Christ. Each of these individuals has embraced a transformational change, choosing to follow the light of the Savior over the multitude of deities in the Hindu faith. This courageous step, while filled with spiritual joy, often comes with real earthly consequences. For some, choosing Jesus means facing the painful reality of being shunned by their families and communities. Yet, in their baptism, these brothers and sisters have declared a profound truth: following Christ offers not only hope for this life, filled with His love and guidance, but also the eternal promise of life everlasting with Him. This beautiful event, occurring on Easter Sunday, is a vibrant expression of the resurrection we celebrate. Just as Christ rose from death to new life, these twenty-four individuals have risen to a new life in Him. Their baptism is a powerful reminder that the victory over death is real, and the hope we have in Jesus is a hope that transcends earthly trials and stretches into eternity. Let us celebrate their courageous faith and continue to support our partners as they nurture these new lives in Christ!  Scott C. Soden Coordinator; Brethren Global Partners

North Central Brethren Gather for Golf Outing

By Ryan Smith • May 21, 2025
Thursday, May 15, started with overcast skies and a slight chill in the air. Despite these conditions, 19 "golfers" from the North Central region showed up at the Brookside Golf Course in Ashland, Ohio, to participate in the Lynn Mercer Spring Invitational. As the morning gave way to midday, the skies turned blue and the sun warmed the course. While it's not known if the improvement in the weather had any impact on the golf being played, those in attendance had a very enjoyable day, which concluded with a lunch and the sharing of golf course stories that were certain to rival those of the best golf pros. The North Central region hosts the Lynn Mercer Fall Classic and Spring Invitational each year. Whether you're a golfer or not, these are great times to gather with others from around the region and spend the day together. The Fall Classic will take place sometime in September or October; do plan to attend. Respectfully Submitted, Ryan Smith Director of Ministry Operations

Reaching Across the World: Our Renewed Connection with Malaysia

By Scott Soden • May 21, 2025
Across the vast oceans and many years, God is bringing the Brethren Church in the U.S. back together with our brothers and sisters in Malaysia. Even though we've been far apart in distance and time, God has been moving to reconnect us yet again. Churches in Penang and Johor Bahru are now working with us to build new friendships. We hope this will strengthen our partnership and also include our friends from the Brethren Church in the Philippines. This will create a wonderful link of churches around the world. The church in Johor Bahru reports that it has moved to a new building that is all on one floor. This makes it easier for older members who have trouble with stairs to participate. Their new location also has a garden where people can go to think quietly, pray, and meet Jesus in peaceful solitude. We hope to visit our partners in Malaysia early next spring. Pastor Paul Stanley and some Philippine Brethren Church pastors plan to go too! This trip is evidence of how God is bringing us together and will serve as an opportunity to strengthen our friendships. We can also see the great work they are doing in God's name. This reconnection reminds us that being part of Christ's church extends beyond our physical location and place in time. We are united across time and place, and as we move forward together across the world, we trust that this new friendship will help God's kingdom and blessing continue to grow.  Scott C. Soden Coordinator; Brethren Global Partners
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