“What began as a small spark can illuminate a community.” This thought encapsulates the story of Igreja Batista Manancial. The church’s journey began humbly as a “Ponto de Pregação.” It was an outreach of Igreja Batista in Jardim Europa.
In those early days services took place in the home of sister Eva de Oliveira Patrício. Leaders rotated to guide the work. Eventually it transformed into a Congregação. The congregation grew steadily.
A pivotal moment arrived in 1992. Sister Robélia Silva Laranjeira led the congregation. A plot of land was purchased on Rua Ubirajara Alves. It was in Jardim das Orquídeas. This purchase was made possible by generous contributions. Many brothers and sisters helped. They built a foundation. It would support a wooden chapel. American brothers from the Junta de Richmond would construct it. The basement was designed for Sunday School classes. The chapel was inaugurated in October 1992. The congregation continued to grow. Several brothers assisted Sister Robélia.
April 1995 marked another significant chapter. Brother Jorge Luiz Voltarel and his fiancée Eliana Rodrigues began serving. In 1996 Jorge became a seminarian. He assumed leadership of the Congregação. He married Eliana in July. On November 25 2000 the seminarian became Pastor. On November 23 2002 the Congregação became Igreja Batista Manancial.
The original wooden chapel deteriorated over time. A new masonry building replaced it.
In November 2008 Igreja Batista Manancial rented a hall. It was located on Av Mogi Guaçu. This location straddled the Orquídeas and Laranjeiras neighborhoods. The church has continued its ministry there ever since.
The Igreja Batista Manancial initiated a sports project in March 2010. It lasted until July 2012. Rafael Cordeiro led the ministry. Many teenagers heard the Gospel through this project. Various programs were held. Some participating brothers and sisters are still with Manancial. Others have moved on.
In April 2018 the church moved to its current building. It is located at Av. Pastor Jesus Nascimento Santo 390. The church continues to make history. All who have accepted Christ participate. They are committed to serving God at Manancial.
Igreja Batista Manancial also focuses on social action. It aims to fulfill God’s desire to care for others. This is achieved through distributing basic food baskets. They also work with the homeless. Their goal is to restore dignity. The church emphasizes building relationships. They aim to create bonds of love.
Carol Trino describes it as “Love. Family love.”
Igreja Batista Manancial founded in 2013 remains a beacon of faith. It stands as a testament to community. Its history is rooted in humble beginnings. It shows strong dedication. It is a living example of faith in action.