FBC and Prestonwood - Castanhal and Parintins

Sun Aug 2

 

We awoke to see the river smooth as glass as if sleeping before the excitement of the day.   The stars and the trees used the river as a mirror and hovered over it with anticipation.   The smell of coffee, bacon, and french toast called us to breakfast as we rolled out into the coolness of the morning.   As we ate, worshipped in song and had devotionals, we headed toward Castanhal, our first small village.

 

The big three decker boat signalled to the people that it was time for them to head to town.   It didn't take long and children were everywhere.   Bible School became a major theatrical production of the Good Samaritan and the Healing of the Deaf Man.   The gospel was presented using soccer balls and salvation bracelets.   Most of all there was lots of fun and pampering; with bubbles, animal balloons and combing hair- turning all the little girls into princesses.  The boys could be heard all over town proudly showing off their squawking chickens.

 

 

Over 50 men, women and children had their teeth pulled.   Rita, one of our dentist, and Sue had the "tooth is now pulled" dance, which made everyone watching laugh.   35 people received new glasses and 64 were able to get much needed medication.   Jeraldo, Doug and Wes witnessed with a pocket knife to the men of the village and 5 accepted Christ; afterward they spent time in discipleship.

 

 

That evening we were treated to a Youth Worship Service in the city of Paritins.   The spirit of joy abounded as the kids from youth camp literally jumped up and down into the auditorium.   They danced, clapped, hugged and smiled to a room of about 1,000.   The pastor spoke on how to be saved and used a pciture of a credit card: Mastercard is everywhere!

 

 

To conclude the day we all headed for McDave's (no joke) to experience new flavors of ice cream.   Heather is going to be their new spokes person for Avocado ice cream.   I was not brave enough to try it.   What af fantastic way to begin our week.