by Thiago Custódio
On March 23, 2025, we had a spiritual celebration in the waters of the Amazon River: the first baptism as a result of the missionary work of the Illuminating Lives Mission Ferry. During the seminar for treasurers of the North Brazilian Union, five people publicly testified their decision to follow Christ, being baptized in an emotional moment filled with the presence of God.
The baptism was performed by five treasurer pastors: Wagner Guidini, Josimar Ribeiro, Luís Carlos, Thiago Franco, and Thiago Custódio, who had the privilege of immersing the first fruits of this missionary project in the waters. In addition to these five people, there was also the baptism of a sister from Manaus, performed by Pastor Hermes Machado, totaling six souls who gave their lives to the Lord.
Pastor Francharle Figueiroa was also present and led the moment of profession of faith and reception of the new members.
This baptism represents the first fruits of a project that was born with the firm purpose of taking the gospel message to the riverside and remote communities of the Amazon region. The Illuminating Lives Mission Ferry has been a powerful instrument in the hands of God to transform lives and strengthen the faith of many.
To make this moment even more special, the dedication ceremony of the Ebenezer II boat also took place. This vessel will be an important support for the Ferry (Ebenezer I), fulfilling the role of taking the word of God to even more distant and remote places. With this new boat, missionary work is strengthened, allowing more people to be reached by the love and grace of Christ.
The baptism and dedication of Ebenezer II are living testimonies that the gospel continues to expand and impact lives in the Amazon region. May this be just the beginning of a great spiritual harvest, bringing more and more souls to the feet of the Savior. May God continue to bless this missionary project, and may many other lives be transformed by the power of the gospel!
