Once upon a time in Rio de Janeiro a project called Mutirão de Natal was born. This project started small but it grew. Today, we stand before what the Igreja Adventista Mutirão represents.
The Igreja Adventista Mutirão is more than just a church. It is a symbol of community and compassion. This is where the Mutirão de Natal project began. Marly Azevedo and her husband Sérgio started it in 1994.
Their goal was simple: collect food for needy families at Christmas. The project started at an Adventist church in Botafogo. Marly and Sérgio organized a gymkhana to collect food. Sérgio named it Mutirão de Natal. In their first effort they donated 54000 kilograms of food.
The Igreja Adventista Mutirão embodies this spirit. It shows how a small idea can transform lives. The Southeast Brazil Union Conference celebrated the project’s 30th anniversary. The celebration took place in Rio de Janeiro. About 2000 people attended.
Pastor Marcos Santiago spoke at the event. He highlighted the church’s unity. He said it shows how the church is divided into regions. But it has one heart, cause and intention. This intention is to do good to all people.
Over the years, Mutirão de Natal grew. In 2007, it reached almost 29000 Adventist churches. Each year, Adventist Solidarity Action helps 2.5 million people. Marly and Sérgio received a tribute for their idea. They dedicated the tribute to the project’s volunteers.
Francilena da Silva de Carvalho is one such volunteer. She once received help from ASA. Now she volunteers and dedicates herself to Jesus. She wants to serve others.
Hellen Nascimento also received support from ASA. It helped her get back on her feet. She dedicated her life to Jesus at the celebration. These stories show the impact of Mutirão de Natal.
The Rio de Janeiro Conference is part of this effort. It includes 110 churches and over 18000 members. The conference supports various ministries. These include children’s ministries and family ministries. They also have health and youth programs.
Adventist Solidarity Action is key. It shows the church’s commitment to helping others. The Igreja Adventista Mutirão stands as a beacon of hope. It is a reminder of the power of community. It shows the impact of simple acts of kindness.
As you stand here remember Marly and Sérgio’s vision. Think of the thousands of volunteers. They work tirelessly to help those in need. The Igreja Adventista Mutirão is a place of worship. But it is also a place of action.