“In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.” Luke 15:10

Some congregations register baptisms by the handful on their yearly statistical reports.  Others typically can count on one hand the number of souls brought to faith through the waters of baptism in a year.  But whatever tale their statistics tell, every group of Christians considers each individual soul precious.  So we all share the joy of the angels in
heaven the Holy Spirit brings another member into the communion of the saints through the waters of Holy Baptism.

Rejoicing filled our Congregação Santíssima Trindade in Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal on November 23rd when Paulo Arimatéa was baptized.  The Lutheran Church of Portugal is a small confessional Lutheran Church consisting of three congregations.  But this victory for the Kingdom is not so much a story of innovative mission methods, but rather a story of building relationships and witnessing with the Word of God.

Paulo, whose Brazilian family had religious roots in Pentecostal and Roman Catholic churches, never had much of a strong connection to any church as he grew up.  After developing a friendship with members from the Lutheran Church of Portugal, they were eager to share their faith with him.  After coming to worship with them, he began to study the teachings of the Scriptures with Pastor Artur Villares.  Through the Word which he heard, the Holy Spirit led him to faith and brought about a desire to be baptized.  It
didn’t take long until this newest member of the Lutheran Church of Portugal turned an existing relationship into an opportunity to invite another of his friends to church.  Time will tell what rejoicing the Lord has planned as his children continue to spread his Word here in Portugal.

J. Enderle