CBM MISSION TRIP

Galatians 5:22-23 list the fruits of the spirit; fruits manifested throughout our time in Brazil. Our medical team was comprised of four returning members including a gifted Brazilian dentist Eliza and five first-timers, including Michael, CBM's first optometrist since 2023.

We experienced a LOVE of the beautiful, unspoiled land that is Brazil. We were further blessed with a deep appreciation and LOVE for the daily culinary masterpieces created by our sous chef Elio and Telles. Their JOY of cooking was apparent in every bite. Also beautiful were the artful table and fruit plating created by Rosie. During our downtime, sunrises and sunsets, the PEACEFUL breezes, sights and sounds of the Amazon refreshed and re-energized us to begin each clinic day.

PATIENCE was easy; the villagers awaiting treatment were relaxed, grateful and full of happiness. The crew that lovingly attended to our every need treated us to many KINDNESSES. From the daily cleaning of our clinic rooms, cabins, and common areas, to the expertise of our exceptional pilot Junior and crew, no task was left undone. The GOODNESS of the families we encountered was a testament to the thankfulness of a resilient people. GENTLENESS in a dental clinic-how can that be? With a soothing and gentle touch for an anxious child about to receive an injection or to a mother undergoing a treatment while her toddler was lying on her tummy.

SELF CONTROL was a little more difficult! Controlling our impulses when handing out treats, toys, sunglasses, bubbles, and more to abundantly joyful children was a testament unto itself! More is better right! FAITHFULNESS - that is what it is all about. We were faithful in coming, faithful in believing that God would provide all that we needed to minister to our new friends and faithful that we would not return to the states unchanged by the incredible Brazilians that ministered to us and tirelessly helped us with our Portuguese language skills.

Some of our favorite memories include our daily devotions, worship in both English and Portuguese, a home visit in Amaro for prayer and worship, a sonogram provided to a seven month pregnant first-time mother, watching the face of a legally blind patient after putting on glasses and "seeing" for the first time, seeing a child's face light up when you gave them a small stuffy, snuggling tightly with babies, a mother daughter sharing a mission trip together, sharing our testimonies and the spiritual leadership from our Portuguese pastor Jose Coloaldo and his wife, Viviane.

To our fearless leader Miguel: thank you for your careful planning and attention to detail which made for an unforgettable experience. The history and geography of Brazil and the Central Brazil Mission was key for our understanding of the mission we were undertaking. The wild and crazy team from Tomoka Christian Church in Ormond Beach, Florida is proud to share the stats from our trip. In six and a half days, we saw to the medical needs of 639 people, performed 272 dental procedures, 321 optometry examinations with glasses and dispensed 639 pairs of sunglasses and countless lollipops and hugs! Until next time, we love you Brazil and CBM.