One of the greatest challenges in mission work is not simply planting churches but helping them grow into mature, self-sustaining congregations. Throughout this mission effort’s history, some churches have started with enthusiasm, only to struggle and die after a few years because of poor leadership. Faithful elders are essential if a congregation is to remain healthy, united, and focused on God’s work through the storms of life.

For that reason, we are especially thankful to report that the downtown Recife congregation has appointed its first new elder in more than twenty years.

On June 7th, the congregation appointed Severino “Bio” Nascimento, 56, to serve as one of its shepherds. This is an important milestone, not only for the congregation itself, but also for the long-term goal of developing mature Brazilian leadership.

Bio’s story has been connected to this congregation from the very beginning. He met the missionaries who planted the first church of Christ in Recife when he was only fourteen years old. His family lived next door to the church building, and one year later, on September 8, 1985, he gave his life to Christ.

Years later he met his wife, Daisy. Together they have built a Christ-centered home and have raised three wonderful daughters — Hannah, Jasmine, and Dara — who have been a blessing to the church.

Over the years, Bio has prepared himself well for ministry. He earned a degree in Portuguese with a minor in Latin and later completed a degree in Old Testament studies from ACU. Before graduating, he served with two congregations nearby. Afterward, he spent eighteen years working with the church in São Lourenço, on Recife’s Westside. In 2022, he returned to the congregation where he first became a Christian to direct the Escola da Bíblia (School of the Bible), a ministry that continues to reach the community with God’s Word.

Those years of faithful service have prepared him well for this new responsibility.

Please join us in praying for Bio, Daisy, their family, and the congregation as he begins serving as an elder. Pray that God will give him wisdom, humility, courage, and perseverance as he shepherds the flock entrusted to his care.

This appointment also reminds us that one of the most lasting investments missionaries can make is in developing local leaders. Buildings eventually need repairs, programs come and go, and missionaries’ time is limited. But faithful shepherds can guide a congregation for many years and help ensure that the church remains strong long after the missionary is called home.