“And the things that you have heard from me among many witnesses, commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also.” 2nd Tim 2:2 NKJV. These words have been the foundation of the work of OMS since Charles and Lettie Cowman went to Japan in February of 1901.
Juka Fernando is a sterling example of OMS work in Mozambique. As Paul encouraged Timothy, “Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the work of truth.” 2nd Tim 2:15. Five years ago, the Lord led Juka, his wife Elina, and daughter Milca Mabel to Brazil to enter a course of missionary studies. Living in a foreign country, while the coronavirus was at its deadliest, has not discouraged this family. While Juka finishes his second Master’s degree, Elina has completed a degree in nursing.
Juka’s second Master’s degree will lead to a Doctor’s degree that he will finish after he returns to Mozambique in December. These studies target planning, initiating, and evaluating projects. How desperately the church needs this kind of vision to its ministry.
In 2011, Juka and his family believed God had called them to missionary work in northern Mozambique among people of another language. When we were with them in 2013, we visited two of the many new churches he founded. We saw that Juka had trained men who were much older than himself to be pastors of local churches. He also set a good example for younger men by his conduct and persistence in the ministry. He had trained young men in woodworking and food preparation. Juka is always teaching!
Some of you have given and prayed for this family for several years and we thank you sincerely for that. Now, the family needs help to return to Mozambique in December. If you would like to share in their support you can send your gift to Project No. 408153. Also, we urge you to pray for this family as they prepare to return to Mozambique and take up leadership roles in the Living Word Evangelical Church.
Bruce and Mabel Callender September 2021