Three years ago I received a call from the IMB about an opportunity to go to São Paulo, Brazil for a missions trip specifically for HBCU students. This has been a dream since we planted Soma and I and my wife gladly went to learn more about this opportunity. After our initial trip we were excited of all what this could mean but it took until this year before we could get our students on the trip. It has been our commitment as a church to call out the called while sending out our best and this trip was a prime example of that investment.
We took 8 students, 7 of which had never left the country before and what an adventure it was. If you have ever been on a missions trip with Soma then you know that we go to bless the missionaries and there ministries as much as we can. This was not, in any way, a vacation, we went to work and work we did. The students were placed in many very hard situations and instead of shying away the leaned in and let the Holy Spirit use them in mighty ways. I could spend time telling you all about the trip but we think it would be much better to here from the students themselves. Below are some of the students reflections about the trip.
Hello, my name is Lillian Bower and I’m a junior at Missouri Western University. This summer, I was given an opportunity to go to São Paulo Brazil for a missions trip. I’ve done mission trips within The States, but this experience changed my life. For a week we got to evangelize in the streets to the homeless and those struggling with addiction. Partnering with Cristo Lândia; we offered breakfast, lunch, showers, clean clothes, and a chance to accept Jesus Christ. It was an honor to sit, eat, pray, and serve with those who usually go unseen. I felt filled with purpose being on the ground, doing the work that many don’t want to do. My favorite part was going to the favelas, doing home evangelizing and loving on the kids. It’s amazing how you don’t have to speak the same language to connect with someone. Kindness is a universal language. I loved hearing other testimonies and getting to share mine. Being able to bond over shared experiences of how God has changed our lives, it was humbling. Whether you’re in The States or across the world, every Christian has a story. I believe sharing our stories can encourage others and bring others to Christ.
– Lilliy
The visit to São Paulo, Brazil, provided a valuable and immersive cultural experience. Engaging with local communities outside of typical tourist areas provided me with a meaningful exchange of perspectives. The opportunity to positively impact individuals ranging in age, and making them feel acknowledged was particularly fulfilling. Being able to observing the diverse journeys and circumstances of the people we encountered was very insightful. Interacting with the children and being able to connect with them on a playful level was an enriching experience. Reflecting on the trip, it became evident that it was an important pivotal moment for me in my spiritual growth, and deeper understanding of faith.
– Courtney
My experience from the Brazil mission trip was truly rewarding. It was my first international mission trip and such a memorable one!
It was a blessing being able to serve the people of São Paulo along with the churches, translators, leaders, my team, and other believers. Even though there were challenges and hardships going on in people’s lives, they were still open to talking to us and open for prayer. The people, culture, and delicious foods is something I’ll never forget!My favorite part of the trip was interacting with the children in the favela. They were so happy and excited to play! Another favorite part was listening to testimonies at one of the house visits we did. I woke up every morning in awe that I was in another country, let alone another continent! I thank the Lord for being able to use me in any way, shape, and form and for working in the lives of the people of São Paulo!
– Chyler
On May 14th I took my first ever trip overseas with the Rooted college ministry. It was life changing. The people were very welcoming. So many were excited to have us and excited to get to know us. Everywhere we went, we were met with good food, smiling faces, and eagerness to work together and worship. God moved mightily. Two days in particular stand out in my mind.
The first was our second working day. We partnered with a ministry that held two worship services and gave out a free sandwich and drink at the end. First, after having orientation and going on a prayer walk at the park, we went out to eat for lunch. However, we had some complications and ended up about an hour behind. But God. After we finished, we went back to the park and began to invite people to the services. After inviting and evangelizing, we went back to the place of worship, where we proceeded to have three fully packed out services. Afterwards, many people stayed to chat with us as they ate. It was an amazing day.
The second day that stood out to me, was our last working day. We partnered with a ministry that works with children in different favelas, or neighborhoods as they are called in America. The children were wonderful to work with. They were very open and affectionate. Many wanted hugs, to hold someone’s hand or to simply just talk to us. They were also very playful and loved futball. It was another amazing day I will not forget.
My experience in Brazil was exciting, challenging, and it strengthened my faith. I want to go back next year. I will be learning Portuguese so I can speak more with the people and understand them. I also hope that I can share the gospel with others here in America more often. I don’t want to only share when I’m not in a familiar place. I want everyone to hear about Jesus, understand who He is, and understand what He’s done for the entire world.
– Gloria
We assisted the local churches of Saõ Paulo, Brazil with their daily work such as feeding the homeless, letting them take showers, and playing with children from the favelas. My favorite part was worshipping with the churches and trying the locals’ food which were really tasty. I saw God moving in places where no hope and broken souls lived. He was breathing life in people where others would let them continue on their path of death. It truly was a amazing experience.
– Whitney
My first time out the country was my mission trip to Brazil. This Mission trip allowed me to understand the Lord’s patience and his grace. Being a part of a collegiate team of people that are strong in their faith and walk and able to help spread his word is a huge blessing. I kept reminding myself it’s bigger than me, everything I do for the Lord is bigger than all of us. Being able to spread his word no matter the language barrier or the difficulties allowed me to see the spiritual gifts he put into my life. I love brazil, the culture the food and more. I would love to go there again. Over the trip it allowed me to wonder if the Lord is calling me to missions. Vai Palmeries 💪🏽
– Brian
My time in Brazil was fun, but also challenging. Seeing the culture and hearing the language It was lovely. What I love most though was the love that was everywhere. It was beautiful while also being there though the thing I struggled with most was my focus and even though I struggled with that, I remember the mission at hand which was to extend the hand of ministry. Also growing closer to God and getting better at sharing my testimony. Now that’s I’m back I feel that I did that but I know I still have room to grow.
– Renayjah