Ministry
Youth & Skoolie
March is approaching quickly—it feels like just a week ago we were ringing in the new year! Youth ministry has been going well. I recently had the opportunity to meet the family of one of the young people in my group. They travel and share the Gospel through a Skoolie ministry (a converted bus turned RV) and will be in Melrose, FL, until early April. It was encouraging to see their heart for ministry and how they use their unique setup to reach people. This month has been filled with meetups, fellowship, and spending time with fellow believers, which has been a real blessing.
On another note, after years of searching Facebook Marketplace for the right shuttle bus, one finally came up that met all my (very specific) criteria—so we bought it! I believe it will be a valuable tool for future ministry. The timing seemed unexpected, but I trust that God knows what He’s doing, even when I don’t.
Funeral – Brother Bill
This month also brought loss, as we said goodbye to a dear brother, Bill. While I will deeply miss him, I rejoice knowing he is with the Lord and free from suffering. His presence and faith impacted many, and I’m grateful for the time I had with him. This week, I just want to focus on loving and supporting his family during the funeral.
Ecclesiastes 7:2 (KJV)
It is better to go to the house of mourning, than to go to the house of feasting: for that is the end of all men;
and the living will lay it to his heart.
Brazil
Pre-Arrival
As a family, we’ve been working to get everything in order as we prepare for our trip to Brazil. Making sure all our ducks are in a row, packed, and ready to go has been a process, but we’re getting there! I’ve also been practicing sharing the Gospel entirely in Portuguese and feel pretty comfortable with a basic presentation now. It’s been a challenge, but a rewarding one.
Speaking of Challenges all of these happened within a week of my trying to travel to Brazil. Not sure if any of this counts as spiritual warfare or just a test of patience.
- 2 vehicles with mechanical issues (I must really love buying auto parts)
- 3 appliances with pumping problems (Dishwasher, kitchen sink, and master toilet—because why not?)
- 1 broken chicken waterer was flooding coop (fixed)
- Best part was coop still flooded (after waterer fix) but now from hole in roof...lol
- 2 roof leaks (A tree branch through the chicken coop and an unexplained leak over the laundry room)
- 2 sick kids the week before (Thankfully, they’re both better now)
- 1 new, decently large problem at work
- And a partridge in a pear tree… 😂
Despite it all, we’re pushing forward, trusting that God has a plan through every unexpected hurdle. Brazil, here we come!
Post-Arrival
2025-03-19 (Wed)
** Travel **
Most of this day felt like multiple days. Think this is because Tuesday blended into Wednesday between jumping countries and time zone.
There is about a 2 hour drive from Hawthorne, Fl to Orlando, Fl, but we left the house at 1pm to celeberate Papa's 69th
birthday. So we spent some time in Orlando mall and had a meal before heading out, as my parents were the ones who were dropping
us off at the airport. From there it was a about 1 hour after we got through TSA and another 9 hours at night flying. The seats
were small and I almost did not get the seatbelt around me. There were TVs with movies, but I think everyone's TV just broke
at different times. I focused on sleeping, with my wife and I scoring around 3 to 4 hours of sleep. We arrived in country
later around 5am, and went through customs, immigration, and Brazillian TSA for the domestic flight. Then waited again for
for our next flight. Once we arrived in Caxias de Sul, we met with Jim and Guta (Maria) and then caught a van to the rental place
to pick up a rental car. Apparently, there was some discrepancy with the amount from rental online and in person for about 200.00 USD
and I got to watch Guta display her Brazillian negotiation skills for about an 1 hour, and then we were on our way to their
house which is another 2 hour ride. We stopped somewhere closer to their house and was treated to a Brazillian buffet. Food was very good.
Then we arrived at their beautiful home at the foot of a mountain. Got a great nap in. Then we headed out to pick up their car and go to
a birthday party in Caxias de Sul. The birthday party was for one of their best friends Eduardo who was turning 64. It was held at a
place called Casa Baruk, which had an awesome kids' play area with workers watching the children so people could talk. Food came out
as little appetizer plates that circulated the whole time. We got to meet Eduardo and Joelia as well as many people from a local
church and the pastor. We even were invited to take pictures with everyone at the party. While there, we spent some time talking to
Jim and Guta (Maria) about projects they are doing for their mission work and listening to how God is just providing without them
asking. God is truly at work here and we are happy to be apart of it.
I (Frank) was off playing pool with a local pastor and some of the businessmen. I did not know who was from the church, Eduardo's family,
or business associates at first. I thought I was talking to a man from his church, but it was actually a businessman. I was
talking about Jesus and church in Portuguese when he told me he did not go to their church. I presented the Gospel in Portuguese
and the man thanked me and introduced me to his wife and pointed out his children. I then introduced my family and pointed out
my children who were playing on the inside jungle gym before I was pulled away to meet another person. My general response to
people when asked why I am here is, "The Gospel, that Jesus is God".
That night we laid down with the clothes on our back and passed out of exhaustion.
2025-03-20 (Thu)
We woke up and washed some laundry from the day before with my scrubba (laundry wetbag we carry) and hung all the clothing before
everyone was up. Updated some work on my laptop, and then had breakfast together with the Wards and then divided and counquered
by sexes. The men climbed up the side of the mountain to fix the well. That is a rock that leaks water on the mountain and is collected
via a hose, which brings in the main source of water. The men then went to the grocery store to pick up coffee and exchange some currency. The
women went to the local farmers' market to pick up fresh fruits and vegetables, and then we would team up at the local butchers.
Once at the butchers, it was all Portuguese again. The butchers thought it was funny that we spoke broken Portuguese and we
began talking about meat, where we are from, Christ, and current politics. I learn roughly about 4 to 5 new words per conversation.
As I will have to ask about certain words during the conversation, to continue and progress.
From there, I (Frank) was given the keys to drive back from the city to the house out in the country. Which is an experience
by itself. I have learned that stop signs are ignored at best, all double yellow lines mean pass if no one is looking, and
cutting in between people for no apparent reason is a way of life.
Most of the evening was spent helping Jim with computer stuff while the women prepared the food for that evening. There was a lot
of fellowship and talking.
2025-03-21 (Fri)
Today, we took a trip into the nearest town, about 20 kilometers away. It’s a tiny place—no more than eight buildings in
total—but full of character. We went to pick up some essentials: a good pair of boots, a plunger, and a few plumbing
supplies for a project we’ve got in the works. We stopped by the pharmacy to pick up medicine for Guta and then headed
to the grocery store to get milk for everyone back home.
For lunch, we decided to eat at the only restaurant in Mato Perso at Restaurante Gaio, a quaint spot tucked just above a
large wine facility. Judging by the size of the place and the quiet pride it carried, we imagine wine is what the town is known for.
Later in the day, we gathered with three women. Two of which have been faithfully serving in missions for many years.
Each of them shared stories of their unique ministries—full of challenges, breakthroughs, and quiet obedience.
We spent nearly five hours in deep conversation, reflecting on the goodness of God and the many ways He’s worked in
each of our lives. It was one of those rare, rich times of fellowship that leaves your spirit both stirred and strengthened.
Among them was a missionary who has spent the last 23 years serving in aviation ministries—faithfully flying supplies,
support, and hope to remote areas around the world. With a steady heart and a servant’s spirit, she’s poured out her
life in service. And now, she shared with a gentle honesty that she’s praying for a Godly husband—someone who shares
her heart for the Lord and for mission work. So, if you know a Christ-centered man with a love for adventure and a
calling to serve…there just might be a runway already prepared for him.
2025-03-22 (Sat)
Today ended up being a day at our Brazilian home after our original plans were unexpectedly canceled. We made the most of the extra time by catching up on a few projects around the property. Jim and I weedwhacked the soccer field and around the pond, giving it a much-needed cleanup, while the kids enjoyed some time swimming and cooling off in the water. Later in the day, Jessica and I tackled one of the workshop rooms and managed to get it cleaned out and organized. In the evening, we gathered with Jim and Guta for an inpromptu Bible study, which was a refreshing way to end the day. Though unplanned, the slower pace was a welcome change and a good reminder that even the quiet days can be full of purpose.
2025-03-23 (Sun)
This morning we visited PIB Caxias do Sul, a local church where we were warmly welcomed. After the service, we
joined Jim’s Bible class, and I had the opportunity to share my testimony. I encouraged the Brazilian believers
there to live boldly for Christ.
After class, I had some solid conversations with several Brazilians about homeschooling and technology.
Back at home, we had lunch—filet mignon that cost just $27 for the whole roll. Not bad. While we were relaxing,
a family stopped by—Alexandre and Gracie with their three daughters: Bia (the youngest), Alice (middle), and
their oldest daughter. They were getting ready for a trip across Europe and were dropping off Alexandre’s sister,
Julia, who’s heading to Portugal for mission work. We shared tips on travel, packing, and how to stay
mission-focused while on the road.
In the evening, we went to a church in Santa Fe called IBSF, located in a rough part of town.
The building was basically right on the street—just three walls, with the fourth side being a garage door that opened
to the public. Pastor Gabriel preached with the door wide open so people walking by could hear everything.
It was a bold and practical way to reach the neighborhood.
To finish the day, we went to an all-you-can-eat Brazilian pizza place (Belgrano in Santa Fe). They kept bringing out pizza, pasta, and even dessert pizzas. Definitely a solid end to a packed day.
2025-03-24 (Mon)
Spent the morning weedwhacking the orchard up on the mountain—good weather and a solid few hours of work.
Later in the day, a missionary couple, Ellis and Tulia, arrived. They’re heading back north today to Rio Grande do Norte, which is about a four-hour flight from here. They're going to meet with Jim and Guta to get a better understanding of the work happening here.
Ellis and Tulia have invited us to stay at their beach house sometime. They’re doing the same kind of mission work as Jim and Guta—offering a place for missionaries to rest and recharge. Should be a good connection for the future.
2025-03-25 (Tue)
Wrapped up mowing the rest of the orchard this afternoon. It’s good to have that off the list. Meanwhile, my wife tackled
another storage area downstairs. She got it completely organized, and it’s now turned into a usable workshop space.
The kids were in the pool nearly all day—probably got a little too much sun.
Later on, Jim, Jessica, and I started working on the netting for the soccer field. After three hours, we only managed to get
about a third of it done. It's slow, tedious work, and a lot of it involves balancing on ladders to secure the netting properly.
I also met our neighbor, Odecio, who has lived next door for four generations. He shared how he lost a large part of his
property during the flood and mudslide—including his radio tower and pool. Thankfully, his house made it through. I told
him I remembered watching footage from that event when it happened—our church back in the States had been praying for him
specifically, even though he had no idea at the time.
We shared some tangerines while he showed me around his home and the ongoing cleanup. We walked over to a backhoe that’s
still working on the damage left behind by the flood over a year ago. Many in this area are still rebuilding from that disaster.
But it was that very flood that opened the door to ministry here. As Odecio said, “When I was cleaning up after the flood, the
friends I had known all my life were sitting around playing cards. But these Christians who didn’t even know me came to help. Makes me want to switch religions.”
This is the kind of testimony I like to hear.
2025-03-26 (Wed)
Jim was sick today—he caught whatever Guta had been dealing with earlier, so he stayed in bed and rested. Jessica and I finished putting up the soccer net, which was a bit of a job but good to have done.
We also met Helana (pronounced Elana), a pastor’s wife. She joined us for lunch, and it was a good chance to hear more about her life and ministry here.
2025-03-27 (Thu)
This morning, Guta brought down some traditional cheese rolls and chimarrão—Brazilian tea served in a gourd and drunk through a silver straw called a bomba. I worked on her computer for a while and helped get things running better.
Later, we visited Eduardo and Joelia’s home for a meal. They’re fellow believers and showed real hospitality. The food was traditional Brazilian steakhouse style—lots of meat served straight off the grill. I tried chicken hearts for the first time, and they were actually great. The flan dessert was also spot-on. Everything they served was excellent.
While we ate, we had some good conversation and talked through parts of the Bible together. Jim was still under the weather and stayed home.
2025-03-28 (Fri)
Today had a bit of a rough start—Maria wasn’t feeling well and couldn’t keep any food down. Still, Jim kindly decided to take us out for lunch at Caminho do Trem in Farroupilha, which was a great experience. Afterward, he drove us up to a vineyard at the top of a mountain where we got to enjoy an incredible view of the surrounding mountains and the meeting point of two rivers. On the way, we even saw a tarantula crossing the road—definitely a memorable sight. Later in the day, we stopped at Pietrobelli to see the butchers one last time and picked up some bombas—silver tea strainer straws—as souvenirs. In the evening, we took care of dinner ourselves so Jim and Guta could relax and get some rest. It was a full, beautiful day.
2025-03-2829 (Sat)
We woke up this morning to find out our flight had been changed to leave four hours earlier than planned. Thankfully, with Jim and Guta’s help, we got everything sorted without too much stress. Guta, who’s feeling much better now, made us a delicious lunch before she and Jim rested for the afternoon. Jessica finished cleaning up the last workshop and managed to get the final board up in the vineyard. The kids enjoyed one last swim while Frank practiced sharing the Gospel in Portuguese. For dinner, Jim and Guta brought down a build-your-own sandwich spread—simple and perfect for the night. Everything felt like it was coming together and wrapping up nicely.
2025-03-30 (Sun)
The day started with booking our seats for tomorrow’s flights, making things feel very real. We went to PIB Caxias for church one final time. It was hard to say goodbye, especially with about a dozen kind people offering to have us over afterward. As much as we appreciated the invites, we knew we needed to spend the time packing and resting—we had to be up at 12:30 a.m. for the trip to the airport. Jim and Guta treated us to lunch at Tulipa, another great buffet, and then took us to see one last beautiful view overlooking Caxias do Sul. On the way back, we saw a giant sculpture of Jesus’ face being built—an unforgettable sight. Once home, we finished packing, cleaned up, and were in bed by 6 p.m., ready for the journey ahead.
2025-03-31 (Mon)
The day started early—very early. We were up at 12:30 a.m. and on the road by 1, making it to Porto Alegre airport around 3 a.m. Our first flight left at 5:35 a.m. to São Paulo (Campinas), and after a short layover, we caught our second flight at 10:15 a.m. We were pleasantly surprised with great meals and snacks on board, though the flight was a little bumpy at times. Eventually, we landed in Orlando, where we were picked up and began the final leg of the journey home. After a stop for smoothies and Chick-fil-A, we arrived home around 10 p.m.—tired but thankful to be back.
