As happens when individuals and churches are faithfully seeking God’s will, He opens new opportunities for blessing. In 2003, Mt. Zion member Carol Yates was asked by Paul Parker to travel with an exploratory team throughout Brazil visiting local churches identified by the national Methodist Church as having high priority needs. From that trip Mt. Zion was called to partner with a church in Recife, Brazil that was overflowing its cramped, cinder block building.
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Carol led a team in April 2004 during which the initial grading work was done. VBS classes were held as well as sewing and lay leader training classes. God’s incredible wisdom was again demonstrated as Mt. Zion member Steve Kohlhagen and his father Lyn were part of that first team. Lyn had owned a concrete business for which Steve had worked. Their expertise was essential to establishing a firm foundation for the new sanctuary. Steve took on the team leadership as five teams over four years worked with the local congregation and professional contractors to build a beautiful new sanctuary. We were also blessed to receive financial support for construction from a generous benefactor.
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As in Costa Rica, rich friendships were formed. In August 2008 Senior Pastor Steve Lyle and many original team members, including recently ordained pastor Leonard Akers visited the church in Recife to finish construction and celebrate its dedication by the Bishop. Leonard most exemplifies the life changing nature of short term mission. He received his call to ministry while in Brazil and now serves the Lord at Hollydale United Methodist Church in Marietta. We left Recife with a firm conviction to continue in His service.
Mt Zion’s international mission efforts continue with an upcoming trip in October 2009 to Aracaju, Brazil where we will work to finish a church begun by another North Georgia United Methodist Church.
