Comunidade Jesus Vive

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Back in 1980, Carla and I, spent two years in Rio de Janeiro working with a youth organization called Clubes Biblicos. Our house in the barrio of Tijuca offered refuge to teenagers and young adults searching for a deep connection with God and fellowship with other Christians. It was during that time that we were exposed to Francis Schaffer’s idea of “L’Abri” and the concept of community. If we were not sharing the love of God through dramas, music and speaking one on one, we were engaged in deep theological discussion on the relevant topics of our time. Otherwise use the fellowship to talk about our favorite subject, football (soccer).
After Carla and I left Rio to work with Mercy Ships, the Clube Biblicos ministry continued to grow and became a church called Comunidade Jesus Vive. Last April Comunidade Jesus Vive commemorated the church’s 23rd anniversary. My best friend Benoni, the church’s pastor, invited me to preach to a congregation of 400 or more. Overwhelmed by emotion, I could hardly deliver my message; I was in awe of God’s power. He transformed a group of radical seekers into to a thriving body of worshipers.

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