Dear reader,

When I first joined Pais Movement in Brazil in 2017, I could never have imagined all that God had in store for me. What began as a gap year experience — a chance to be challenged and to grow while serving young people through schools work — has turned into an eight-year journey of growth with Him. Along the way, I have developed as a follower of Christ, as a missionary, and as a leader. I have also had the privilege of working alongside many amazing people. I am especially grateful for the life God has helped me begin to build in São Paulo with my wife, Clara, and with the support and care of Memorial Baptist Church.

Over the past few years, as I focused on strengthening Pais’ work in Brazil, God gradually opened my eyes to the need for leaders with a long-term commitment to their local communities. My responsibilities as National Director are largely geared towards national expansion, while the locally focused work is carried out by missionary apprentices serving for one to three years. Clara and I believe that God is now calling me to a more hands-on involvement in local ministry, after formal training. With the support of our pastors at São Paulo Memorial Baptist Church, we believe that the time has come for me to step down from my role with Pais and allow someone with a more nationally focused vision to take up the reins.

I have recently begun a Master of Divinity in Biblical and Pastoral Studies at Servo de Cristo Theological Seminary in São Paulo. For now, I am taking a couple of classes each week, but in January I will transition to full-time study for about two years as Clara and I continue to seek God’s direction for the road ahead.

I would like to express my deepest gratitude to Paul, Lynn, Mark, Junior, and everyone at Pais Movement who believed in me, taught me, and gave me opportunities for growth. I am also thankful for my current staff — Leo, Rebeca, and Chris — together with all who have stood with me in Pais Brazil since 2020, despite my inexperienced leadership. I am grateful to the Pais Movement Brazil pastoral board for their heart for schools work, and to the families who hosted me in my early years, as well as the pastors, families, and individuals who have contributed time, homes, and finances to the organisation’s mission — their dedication has played a crucial role in Pais Brazil’s growth and will continue to be key to the organisation’s future expansion. I also want to thank Charles Galvão and his family, who are bravely stepping up to lead Pais Brazil. I am privileged to be surrounded by pastors and leaders at Memorial Baptist Church, whose wise counsel, support, and friendship have been a constant encouragement. I am deeply thankful to my supporters, who walk with me in prayer and give generously to what God is doing in me. Finally, I am indebted to my wife for her wisdom and partnership, and to my parents, siblings, extended family and friends for their love, prayers, and ongoing support.

I ask for your prayers for Pais Movement Brazil during this transition period, and for Clara and me for the coming year as I devote myself more fully to theological training. Clara and I look forward with faith to the path God is tracing before us.

With gratitude,

Joshua Samuel Porter