Chronicles from Mozambique

Merry Christmas

2011-12-24T20:00:00.000+02:00

Merry Christmas from the Pratas Family, in Mozambique!

There was no room for them...

2011-12-23T14:26:00.001+02:00

A few days ago, while driving in one of the most important avenues of Maputo, I saw this image! 8:23 AM and the sun was already high.

Another day of work, and traffic everywhere. Some were late for work, others in search of stores where to buy the desired goods to the "family day" to come.

Nearby, between horns, braking and acceleration of thousands of cars that run along the Avenue every morning, three children are asleep, oblivious to everything and ignored by everyone.

Well, the light turned green, and I continued my way towards my destiny. That image was retained in my memory but also in my phone. A city with more than 1 million people has no place for these children.

This story reminds me of another story two thousand years ago when there was no place to host a newborn child and his parents.
"and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn." (from the Bible, in Luke 2:7)

One boy who had been announced as the Savior, and the light that was shining over the world, had no place to be born. It was the same boy as he grew older and began to tell the world what was his mission, was rejected and handed over to be killed. He had no place in the world. The same man who died on a cross, was buried and rose again the third day, but I had no place in the hearts of men.

Jesus no longer takes place in the Christmas story, which was replaced by the lighted tree, the wrapped gifts and the table full of what many will never see.

"But the angel said to them, Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today, in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord."
(from the Bíble, in Luke 2:10-11)

Instead of a boy who brings a joyful news for all, we learned to know that Santa only brings gifts to some.

Jesus had no place in the inn, in the world, nor in his own celebration.

And in your heart, there's room for him?
Click here to know more about Jesus.

Merry Christmas!

Community Transformation

2011-12-13T00:00:00.000+02:00

Picoco is a small community, 25 miles far from Maputo, but still with big needs, although we can see the capital city sky-line.

Here the majority of the houses does not have electricity or water and not event blocks. Made with old tree branches, rocks and mud, or in some cases a bit of concrete.

The family we visited today, their house was built with mud and covered with old advertizing banners to protect from rain. On the side, we see a structure of their future house, that will take them months to afford to complete it. So we decided to help.

Out team of 15 students from the 1-2-3 training decided to help built some of these future walls. Our first task was to colect rocks and put them in the "wood" structure to cover the wall.

After that, they usually put mud but we decided to offer a bag of concrete and start filling the empty spots.

Finaly our team poses for the picture and shows the result...

Then we pray for the family and celebrate with joy as we return to our camp!

KidsGames in Picoco, Boane

2011-12-12T16:35:00.000+02:00

The final stage of a sports ministries training is to organize a Children Activity where students aplly all the tools and concepts learned during the week of training, using sports and games as a teaching tool, through experiential learning and creativity to teach life and bible values.

It was a rainy and cold day and gradually the children arrived at the camp.

Some of them bring their little brothers/sisters carrying them on their backs. This is a social reality, everywhere, with children being exposed to adult life style and roles.

But this is a special day and the key word is PLAY. We need to provide a great day to these kids and teach them values through the games:

Jumping with the rope

Pulling the rope

Wheelbarrow race

Long Jump

Blindman's bluff

After all the fun, it is time to talk and to reflect on what can we learn with all those activities. Important to know what can we do to make our lives different and better, in the middle of all the problems and needs.

1-2-3 Training in Boane

2011-12-10T18:36:00.000+02:00

During 6 days, 21 youth leaders from different communities of Maputo province, gathered in Picoco, a small village, 25 miles away from the capital city.
The first 20 miles we drive in a paved road but the final 5, you need a 4x4.

Some will walk to the training camp, other will take a ride from someone.

The best part of the dust road!

As we arrive at the Youth for Christ center, the group prepares for 6 intense days. We only have 4 rooms, 2 for the dorms, 1 for the classroom and the last one for dinning. The kitchen is open air.

Experiential Learning, Creative Games and Sports, Teaching Methods is just a part of the subjects to study. During the week all are challenged to make a difference in their generation and to make a commitement to reach the children at the community.

Some sessions are very practical and students are challenged to build their own ministry projects and to test the learned principles and tools.

Planning the KidsGames program

Small groups discussion

Experiential Learning

Last day, all that have completed the program receive their Certificate and are challenge to go back to their communities and make a difference!

Do Bicycles Equal Development in Mozambique?

2011-11-28T08:48:00.001+02:00

This is the title of a book writen by Joseph Hanlon e Teresa Smart about development in Mozambique.

Anyway, it's impossible to talk about bicycles without thinking on Quelimane, capital of Zambézia province.

Here, bicycles rule! By far the main transportation in the city, where you can take a ride anywhere to everywhere, paying only 5 Mts, around US $0,20.

Anyway you can still use the "classic way" of a car, but make sure you have all you need in case of a flat tire! We didn't check our car, and... the needed "jack" wasn't there!

Thanks to the goodwill of our mozambican friends, we could lift the car...

And improvise...

It worked!

Happy Birthday Mariana

2011-10-16T08:59:00.000+02:00

Mariana is now 12 years old! WOW! Time really flies...
Pimpão, our cat, is 2 year old and he was part of the party too.

Mother and daughter, smile to the camera... or to the cameraman?

1-2-3 Training in Xai - Xai

2011-09-16T08:32:00.001+02:00

Capital city of Gaza province, Xai - Xai is 200 Km far from Maputo.

During 6 days, 40 youth leaders from 26 churches were part of another training in sports ministries, including teaching methods, experiential learning and leadership principles.

On the last day, a practical application of the learning, through a KidsGames Experience with the kids from a poor community from Bairro Patrice Lumumba, at a local orphanage:

10th All Africa Games - Maputo 2011

2011-09-08T22:22:00.000+02:00

More than 5000 athletes from 38 African countries are together in Maputo competing for the Gold, in 20 sports.

Living at the Olympic Village, equipped with 848 brand new apartments, the athletes can rest, train, and look for spiritual help and counselling at the Christian Center Tent.

More Than Gold is a partnership of different churches and agencies, to serve the athletes and the local communities around major sport events.

1-2-3 Training in Quelimane, Zambézia

2011-08-20T20:51:00.000+02:00

During 6 days, 40 youth leaders from 27 different communities in Zambézia province were trained in sports ministries.

On the last day, children come to the venue to have fun and learn the biblical truth!

Check the pictures...

Nampula 1-2-3 Training

2011-07-20T11:44:00.002+02:00

During 6 days a group of youth leaders from Nampula province, stayed at the INTENA (Theological Institute of Nampula) to be trained in Sports Ministries, Experiential Learning, Teaching Methods and many other tools for an effective church ministry. On Saturday, kids from all the places around come to have a KidsGames experience with fun, games and bible teaching.

Mission Team

2011-07-03T08:35:00.000+02:00

This year we had the previlege of receiving a team of 17 from Traverse City, MI and 6 from Portugal.
What a great group of 23 brothers and sisters that come along to help us with our ministry.

We had a chance to do VBS at 2 orphanages, visit the Hospital kids, and help with other two projects in the city.
Great time also for fellowship and to know each other better.

Thank you so much for your ministry here!
God bless you all!

Bible Baptist Church Travelpod

Training in Chimoio

2011-06-12T00:50:00.000+02:00

1000 miles from Maputo, 34 participants from 21 churches were trained in sports ministries for the last 6 days.
Today, more than 150 children experienced a KidsGames day, integrating sports with Bible Discovery organized by the Training Participants.

Sports Ministries Training in Tete

2011-04-13T21:13:00.001+02:00

Tete is located in the North of Mozambique, about 1500 miles from Maputo, and close to Malawi, Zimbabwe and Zambia.

On monday, 35 youth leaders started a Training on Sports Ministries, focused on Experiential Learning and Children and Youth Ministry. On saturday, children from the area will take part of a KidsGames program where participants will put into practice the learning of the week.

Coloring Books..

2011-04-01T08:41:00.000+02:00

Thanks to a group of friends from Micah Challenge - Portugal our children at Oncology Ward received some coloring books with bible stories. What an opportunity not only to have fun, but also to learn from stories with a special meaning for their lives.

Thank you so much for this gift!

Pimpão, the hunter...

2011-02-28T19:07:00.001+02:00

If you are considering a visit to Mozambique, don't worry! We wired the last generation of protection from the Africa wildlife. It is not a lion, but acts like one, when anything moves in our house.

The look...

Pimpão and his coach Mariana

Charity boxes...

2011-02-26T19:04:00.000+02:00

The storage room is too small for such love. Boxes, Bags, big, small, old and new, you can find everything. From needed things to "not so interesting" objects, the container arrived after a long journey through the sea.

Storage room

This is the result of the love from portuguese people, always ready to help when is needed, no matter how far are those who need. But it takes a lot of work before these gifts reached their final destination.

Boxes and boxes

It took about 1 month for the container to arrive in Mozambique.

After all the paperwork, custom clearance and many stamps, we need to take everything out of the container and give it back after 3 hours, empty.

As we don't have any place to store it, we depend on friends and volunteers to give us some space on their private homes.

After this, we need to open each box and see what is inside.

Opening and organizing by age size

This is the longest phase! Organize everything making sure it's clean and in "good" conditions!

Selection by age an gender

Whoever needs can take it home...

Done!

Now that everything is selected and organized by gender, size or age, we need to store it again using shelfs to make it easier to find what we need.

Then, what?

Here in Mozambique, everything is needed, always. So, it's just a matter of dividing it by groups, like orphanages, schools or other missions. In special ocasions, like Christmas, each patient at the Cancer Ward in the Hospital will receive a give, as all those we see in need. everyday is a day to give.

From the other side of the world to this beautiful city of Maputo, love is received and love is gived away to others. Thank you for your generosity.
Adapted from Vivências Contadas

Soccer and Life

2011-02-18T08:21:00.001+02:00

Around 130 youth, from different churches of Maputo get together for a soccer tournment.

Many goals scored but also lots of joy for knowing about the much higher values that exist behind sports. To achieve the 1st place is good but not everything in life.

At the end, all have received literature about values and sexual abstinence.

In Mozambique we estimate that sexual activity starts at the age of 11 - 12 years old.
We can't wait for the rigth time to educate... the rigth time is now!

Who said you need special shoes to play?...

This was an oportunity for these young man and women, to watch what pro athletes have to say about life, like Kaka and Lúcio, soccer world champions.

A soccer ball, signed by the FIFA best soccer player of the world, is nothing without air inside... what about your life?...

Another team blessed by a "uniform" donation from Clube Desportivo de Mafra

Two communities competing... Romão and Baixa

Ali Mulima, the best scorer with 8 goals, showing his shirt "With Jesus, problem is not a problem"

Distribution of a magazine "Values on Sport" and a brochure about Sexual Abstinence

The Book with the best story for the 2 winning teams...

Joy and lots of noise from the vuvuzelas!

The champions... A.D. Baixa

Short Passing - Relationships

2011-02-12T18:12:00.000+02:00

One of the main focus of Ubabalo program (Whole Life Soccer Coaching) is the way it transforms the soccer field into a classroom, where the students learn as they play and reflect about what they do.

This is what happened this morning, 8 AM, when our kids experienced for the first time a grassed soccer field, invited by Clube Ferroviário de Maputo for a friendly match.

But there was another surprise for them - a new "uniform"! Donated by Clube Desportivo de Mafra, a soccer club from Portugal, these kids played for the first time so well dressed in yellow and green.

At the end, the players should learn that short passing is important to keep the team united, but this is something also important outside the field. We need to stay united, if we want to go further. We need to help others as we need others to help us.

Saidate, our "coach", used a simple idea to demonstrate this. Every player should count how many squares on the paper and the answer was so easy - 16 squares! Well, if they look closer, with the help of others, they will probably see more. Right, some would say 22 squares, others 24, and finally, 30 squares.

Today's lesson: In soccer, we need all the team to reach the objectives. In the family, we all should be united and closer to each other. So that our homework - go back to our homes and do something that will make our family stronger, happier and united. Next week, we will see the results!

1-2-3 Training in Maputo

2011-01-29T19:47:00.000+02:00

During 6 full days, 31 youth leaders from 15 churches and agencies were together for an intensive training on Sports Ministries as a preparation for a Major Sport Event coming to Maputo next September, the 10th All Africa Games.

KidsGames, Ubabalo - Whole Life Soccer Coaching, and Experiential Learning are just a few of the topics. The use of sports for education is a wonderful way to reach children and teens by a generation who wants to make a difference in their nation.

Graduation day... a certificate, a ball, many resources and a full heart for the Nation!

Team building and experiential learning

Teaching about changing our world through sports

Ubabalo - Whole Life Soccer Coaching

Session Plan - Heading ... how to reach your goals!

Preparing the field for the KidsGames program...

Planning the KidsGames Event

Strategies to reach every community...

Praying for the Nation...

Welcoming the children...

Fun

Joy

Games

Competition

Teaching time in small groups...

Literature - the best story...

This is not the end, but the beggining of great things to come...

Merry Christmas

2010-12-24T19:30:00.003+02:00

“When they saw the star, they were overjoyed. On coming to the house, they saw the child

with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened

their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold and of incense and of myrrh.”

Matthew 2:10-11

Dear friends,

This is the 4th year we have the privilege to celebrate Christmas in Africa. Completely different from what we were used to, with fireplaces and warm clothes, now we are closer to the pool, wearing t-shirts and drinking Coke with lots of ice!

Although we only see a few Christmas lights on the streets, we still think and remember that we are celebrating the most important event on the humankind history. A baby was born, loved by some and hated by others, but bringing to all the people a new reason to live, and hope for eternal life.

Here, in Mozambique, we are so happy for being able to share this good news with all those who God send us to, and we know how important are those that, far away from us, are closer enough to pray and to support our ministry. Thank you so much!

This year, we want to reflect and think on what do we really want to give to Jesus, as those man did, opening their treasures. May our gifts of “gold, incense or myrrh” be what we value the most in our lives in order to give it to the one who gave us the most precious thing – His own life, so we could live.

Thank you for being a part of our family,

One more cast...

2010-12-10T09:29:00.000+02:00

It seems our family love to use "casts"!
The first one to use it was Raquel, in September 2008,

Then Mariana, in May 2009,

Now, in 2010, our cat Pimpão!

We are now accepting proposals for who will be next, in 2011!

Clothes distribution

2010-12-05T20:01:00.001+02:00

Few months ago, we have been blessed with a 20 feet container of humanitarian aid for mozambican people.

Hundreds of boxes, filled with clothes, shoes and many other articles to be distributed among the needed people. If fact, it takes us many hours before everything ends at the "final destination".

First, we need to find out what is in the boxes:

Then, divide everything by type and sizes on the right place:

And finally, deliver it where it is most needed. This time at the 1º de Maio Orphanage, in Maputo:

Back Online...

2010-11-24T21:43:00.000+02:00

Dear friends,

So sorry for being far away from this place.
Time is always running and sometimes, important things like updating blogs, are kept on the side.

During the last month, many things happened. Here are the highlights:

- Mariana worked on a school project that was part of an exhibition at the Portuguese Consulate in Maputo,

- Alice welcomed her sister Sónia and nephew Martim,

- Mariana won the soup contest at the Portuguese School,

- We saw a leopard at Kruger National Park,

- and we are still very happy, as always!

11 years old

2010-10-09T12:18:00.000+02:00

Mariana is 11 years old, and this is her fourth time to celebrate her birthday here is the South Hemisfere.
Pimpão, the cat is also celebrating his 1st birthday!

Traditional Games of Mozambique

2010-09-27T15:42:00.001+02:00

This last weekend, Beira, the second major city in Mozambique, hosted the First National Meeting of Traditional Games, a governmental initiative with the participation of 11 delegations from the 11 provinces of Mozambique. Around 275 athletes and officials atending this event.

At the opening cerimony, more than 800 local children played a huge coreography, with a colorful design.
MDI (International Sports Ministries) was involved as a partner on the Organizing Committe, helping with documents, planning, games research, collection and other processes.

The goal is to recover the traditional Games heritage and transform it as an educational tool throug experiential learning for community transformation.

Peace in Maputo

2010-09-06T11:27:00.000+02:00

The peace is a reality in Maputo, this morning, with everbody reporting to work and everything returning to normal.

Tomorrow is a national holiday and we hope today the city will be completely supplied with food and gas.

We are all safe, thank God!

Social unrest in Maputo - 2nd day

2010-09-02T13:04:00.000+02:00

After a peaceful night, with some gun shooting far from our place, the city wake up this morning for its 2nd day of riots and social unrest. Everything is closed, and people are starting looking for food.

The TV News show more confronts in different areas of the city, with the army shooting to dispers people.

This morning we found 2 bakeries open and hundreds of people trying to buy bread.

I was able to get into a closed stored to buy some milk, eggs and bread, just in case this will be extended for more days.

To those who have contacted us, showing their love, thank you so much for your prayers and support.
We are safe, thank God.

The Guardian
Reuters
AllAfrica.com
CBC News

Social unrest in Maputo

2010-09-01T11:13:00.000+02:00

This morning we wake up in the middle of a strike and social unrest due to the increase of prices in the country.

Some roads to the city are blocked, they are burning tires, and schools are closed.

The army is trying to control the situation.

We have been advised to stay at home.

1-2-3 Training Conference - Nampula

2010-08-10T15:01:00.000+02:00

34 leaders from 12 different denominations get together in Nampula for a 7 day training in Sports Ministries, Experiential Learning, Whole Life Soccer Coaching (Ubabalo eAfrica) and KidsGames initiatives. As we did in Beira, the last day the group applied what they have learned with 140 kids from different places in the area.

Check the pictures!

1-2-3 Training Conference - Beira

2010-08-01T14:24:00.001+02:00

22 youth leaders from Beira area gathered for a 7 days training in Sports Ministries, Experiential Leaning, Whole Life Soccer Coaching (Ubabalo eAfrica) and KidsGames initiatives.

In the last day, over 100 kids experienced what they have learned in a KidsGames Experience.

Congratulations!

20' of love

2010-07-20T19:07:00.000+02:00

Just arrived!
A 20' container full of donations for the mozambican people.
We couldn't believe. Very good gifts, some of them in first hand! New!

Now, we have a lot of work to do, so everything can be delivered to those who really need.

On behalf of Mozambican children, we say KANIMAMBO*!

* thank you, in Xhangana dialect

3 Years, 2 Cousins, 1 Goal

2010-07-02T10:50:00.000+02:00

The day we celebrate 3 years in Mozambique, we had dinner with family from Portugal and Canada, eating Italian pizza at a Greek restaurant. And by the end of the day, Spain scored a goal, and send us home!

Go Portugal!

2010-07-01T18:55:00.001+02:00

We support our team - Portugal!

Pictures from Boston.com

The sky is the limit

2010-06-25T12:51:00.000+02:00

Being inside a church and seeing the sky at the same time, is not very common, but it was the perfect setup for watching the World Cup match Ghana - Germany, and understanding that some of these 5 star players do believe in God and have a personal relationship with Jesus.

Winning and Losing

2010-06-22T08:32:00.000+02:00

Just a few hours after Portugal beat Korea by 7, I was defeated by 2!

Rigth, while some won, others lost! I lost 2 light spots from my car, when parked at the University.

Long time ago, side mirrors were the target (I was stollen 7, in a 6 months period), now the target are the lights!

Big Screen for World Cup

2010-06-20T12:49:00.000+02:00

It's freezing at night, but this is not an obstacle to go and watch a World Cup match in a Big Screen.
At the townships around Maputo, everynight we show a match in a different place.

But this is not about soccer only! This is an opportunity that churches use to show that for some high level athetes, soccer is not their ultimate goal, but their faith in a eternal prize that comes through Jesus.

Whole Life Soccer Coaching

2010-06-20T09:50:00.001+02:00

Ubabalo eAfrica means "The Grace of God upon Africa".
We believe that through sports coaching, we can link the soccer skills with life skills, and provide a rich and efective learning athmosphere.
We believe in a new generation of children who will grow with a new and bible founded value system, which impact not only their personal lives as those around, promoting a community transformation.

Family Games

2010-06-14T22:16:00.000+02:00

"I can't remember when was the last time I had so much fun..."

The Sunday Service was for the children.
The message was about how important are children to God, and how easy is to forget this.
Children were looking for Jesus, and the disciples thought He was too important to relate with children.
The chalenge was for the church to see children ministry as an important and critical area for the church.

Parents were expecting to see their children play, but they were surprised by being involved in the games.

We call it FamilyGames!

Go Portugal!

2010-06-09T19:45:00.000+02:00

Photos (Getty Images)

Portuguese Team at FIFA oficial site

A World Cup in Africa

International Children's Day

2010-06-01T19:30:00.000+02:00

Today, more than 1000 children from the "4th of October Primary School" had a very special day. While the older group (500) marched into a National Celebration with the First Lady of Mozambique, the youngest but significant group stayed with us for a Special KidsGames Day. Lots of fun, games and learning experiences. Check by yourself...

discussion time

2010-06-01T19:11:00.001+02:00

During the day, and after the games, children had the oportunity to share their experiences and to learn about the values for their lives.

expressions

2010-06-01T18:27:00.000+02:00

movements

2010-06-01T17:23:00.000+02:00

Clothes for the Hospital Oncology Patients

2010-05-01T15:06:00.000+02:00

It's getting cold and some warmer clothes are needed.

This week we had the opportunity of blessing the patients at the Maputo Central Hospital with some clothes he hope made them feel more confortable...

Of course, first thing to do is to choose what fits in who!

Freezing in Maputo

2010-04-24T22:14:00.002+02:00

Don't laugh, please!

Today, it's 75,2 F and we are freezing.~

After getting used to a 95 - 104 F Summer, it seems Winter just arrived.

Ice Cream Party at the Hospital

2010-04-22T22:10:00.000+02:00

This afternoon, at the Central Hospital, the Oncology kids were blessed with a delicious ice cream!

Thanks, aunt Patt, for this surprise!

Artists

2010-03-26T22:44:00.001+02:00

Father's day in Mozambique

2010-03-19T16:46:00.002+02:00

6 AM in Maputo ( 11 PM in New York) - Mariana wakes me up with a Happy Father's Day kiss and a handmade postcard with a special message.

Thank you Mariana, I need more space in the office to show so many things done by my lovely daughters. Maybe a new office!!??

Visitors

2010-03-16T10:27:00.002+02:00

Finally we got some visitors from Portugal...

Nuno and Susana are a christian couple involved with a child sponsoring program - Projecto Vitória, at Matola Rio, a poor area outside Maputo.

Although theuir full agenda, they spend some time with Alice, at the Hospital, serving the Oncology patients.

Nuno is a professional fireman and Susana is photografer! So, you may see some good quality pictures in the next days. Nuno already helped us to rescue our cat on the top of the tree!

So, welcome to Mozambique!

Soccer and Life

2010-03-07T21:01:00.002+02:00

Thanks to the generosity of Clube Desportivo de Mafra, who donated a lot of soccer kits for our kids, today's training session was so special for the first group of kids, at the orphanage where we have been developing a soccer school - whole life coaching.

Dressed "in yellow", the training was completely different from the others!

Net week, all the group will be wearing new clothes!

KANIMAMBO MAFRA!

Pain and Hope

2010-03-06T20:46:00.000+02:00

Almost 2 years ago, we received a first container with donations for the orphanage "Casa das Formigas". At that time, a lot of thinks stayed in Portugal waiting for the next container.

Even not knowing when would be shipped the new container, a lot of friends were keep receiving and colecting things, and some of them providing space for storage.

Suddenly, the challenge wasn't about colecting anymore, but about funding the transportation to Mozambique.

For how long it would take the cancer kids at the hospital to wait for their clothes and other needed materials? How many families would be able to wait for those needed clothes and shoes?

That's when someone had a dream!

A dream of turning up a smile on the mozambican kids. A smile that was fading away slowly meaning pain for someone that would be transformed into hope to others.

The dream impacted others, and because of that, soon, the dream will be just reality.

The container will be shipped to Mozambique!

Our friend Márcia fight with cancer until the last minute and lost her life last week. But her dream will win hundreds of happy faces in Mozambique as she also fight for them.

Thank you, Marcia.

Rainy weekend

2010-03-01T15:55:00.000+02:00

Here in Maputo, when it rains, it RAINS!!!!

We were ready to drive 200 miles north of Maputo, for a weekend of rest when started to rain in Maputo. We decided to keep our plans and we drove for 5 hours until we arrived at our destination, 200 miles away from home.

On our return, it took us 7 hours to drive the same distance, just because the main road (only dust on the day before) was only mud (no tar for about 30 miles).

Thanks for our 4x4 vehicle, this was a great and funny adventure! The only challenge was to convince the girls that we should wash the car after this! They just loved all the mud!

Haute Couture

2010-02-22T16:56:00.002+02:00

In Paris or Milan, he would be well known by everyone, and would travel all over the world showing his talents.

But he is an ordinary mozambican and works in a small garage in Maputo. This taylor do his best to make his customers happy, like Alice, who is bringing a dress for him to do.

In fact, I have seen in this city more man on this job than women.

Emmanuel School

2010-02-22T16:43:00.002+02:00

This morning we had the privilege to be at the Emmnuel School, to share with the 80 students from kindergarden to 12th grade.

7:30 AM and everyone was ready for the weekly devotion.

This school will start a program on Whole Life Soccer Coaching, as 2 teachers completed the training we had in Maputo 2 weeks ago.

Certificates

2010-02-20T16:20:00.000+02:00

32 youth leaders from 15 different churches and agencies received their Certificates for the 5 day training in sports ministries. It is just a paper, but what it matters is the knowledge put into practice.

These leaders will meet together again in few weeks to start planning for a KidsGames event in Maputo, during the World Cup in Soccer and Portuguese Games, this summer.

Congratulations to all! This is just the beggining...

Leadership Training in Maputo

2010-02-13T21:20:00.000+02:00

Today we finished a series of leadership training conferences. For 5 days, 32 leaders from 15 different churches and agencies completed a training in Sports Ministries and Experiential Learning. For the closing day, the students had the opportunity to serve 170 kids from different areas, with a KidsGames program, linking sports, games and bible teaching.

Big Screen

2010-02-09T21:55:00.002+02:00

The African Cup of Nations is in Angola, but in Mozambique we are also celebrating with the fans.

In different towships around Maputo, we had the oportunity to setup a big screen and show the games to hundreds of fans.

Before the second half, a video of top christian players sharing how God is much more important than a prize that will only last for 2 years was on the screen so everybody could see there is a prize that lasts forever and available to everbody.

CAN 2010

2010-01-15T21:37:00.002+02:00

From January 10 - 31, Angola organizes the African Cup of Nations in Soccer, hosting 15 teams in 4 cities - Cabinda, Luanda, Benguela e Lubango.

Such a Major Sport Event is also an opportunity for churches and agencies to partnering together with initiaties to reach the sport fans.

We had the privilege to visit all the 4 cites and provide training to young leaders on sports ministries. In Benguela, a tent was provided right outside the stadium so we could do outreach initiatives.

A Mozambican Wedding

2009-12-28T17:00:00.003+02:00

Our friend and co-worker Saidate is married!
The wedding was on December 26th, in the same day of other 30 weddings celebrated at the Wedding Palace, in Maputo. An unforgetable day when temperatures reached 104º F.

2 banquets where we can have a taste of mozambican food and culture.

Christmas Day in Maputo

2009-12-28T15:20:00.002+02:00

With temperatures reaching 104º F, there is only one place to be - the pool!

It seems a new tradition for our family on Christmas Day - diving and swimming at the Maritimo Club Pool.

Xicuembo

2009-12-24T13:49:00.002+02:00

Alex is one among many boys that live in the streets of Maputo, parking and "checking" cars, to get some coins.

This morning, Alex helped me to park the car and promised me to "check" (to take care or to protect the car from burglars) while I was in the store.

Looking to his cap, I asked:

- Bro, where did you find that cap?

A friend gave it to me, boss!

- Have you noticed what is writen?

Yes, it says Jesus!

- And you know who is Jesus?

Jesus is Xicuembo (God in Tsonga dialect), he said, pointing to the sky.

We have talked a little bit more, and I promised him a Bible, next time we will meet.

This season, the Chistmas Tree can be at the corner, but Jesus must be at the center!

Ethics

2009-12-21T19:09:00.003+02:00

These are my students, at CDL (Leadership Development Center) where I have been teaching Ethics for this last semester.

Very good grades, and even better discussions on Ethical Issues and Dilemas.

The real test will be now, in the real life. I'm sure they will do great!

A new family member

2009-11-30T13:59:00.002+02:00

Mia it's a cat and the new member of our family!

A birthday gift for Mariana, but arrived yesterday, as she was born on October 9th, 10 years later than Mariana.

Welcome, Mia!

Shool Awards

2009-11-28T12:23:00.000+02:00

They call it "Excelence Award" and our daughter Raquel received it again for the 3rd time!

Congratulations Raquel!

Weelchairs for Cancer Kids

2009-11-27T12:03:00.000+02:00

These are the two weelchairs donated to the Oncology Department of the Central Hospital.

They were donated by the Sunday School of a Church in Portugal. Thank you so much.

We still have another weelchair donated by a company in Portugal, wainting to be shipped to Mozambique.

Awakening in Maputo

2009-11-25T12:14:00.002+02:00

4:00 AM - The day starts with the birds singing on the trees. On the background we can hear the call for prayers from the nearest mosque.

4:30 AM - The city is very quite, and the lights are still on, contrasting with the sky that is gaining is colour every second. Guards clean the sidewalk, and some residents do their morning jogging.

5:00 AM - On the radio, the National Anthem is playing and the news from the day before are repeated. The sun is there, and people start filling the streets on their daily routine to the jobs.

On the surroundings, some run for water that is still not available to everyone.

Good morning, Maputo!

Glossary

2009-11-18T11:10:00.002+02:00

Here are some words you need to know if you want to visit us in Mozambique:

Chapa - 9 seat Toyota Van, used as public transportation for 18-22 passengers.

Mola - Money

Celular - Cell phone

Crédito - Cell phone pre-paid balance

Maningue Nice - Very Nice

Kanimambo - Thank you

Job - Job

Boss - Boss

Mulungo - White Man

Election's day in Mozambique

2009-10-28T11:30:00.001+02:00

Maputo — All the polling stations for Mozambique's general and provincial elections will open on time, at 07.00 on Wednesday morning according to AIM.

The pledge was made at a Tuesday press conference in Maputo by Felisberto Naife, general director of the Electoral Administration Technical Secretariat (STAE), the electoral branch of the Mozambican civil service.

He said that the positioning of voting materials and electoral staff at the polling station sites in rural areas began two days ago, and should be completed on Tuesday. The materials for the urban polling stations will be positioned early on Wednesday morning.

The conditions have been guaranteed for the polling stations to open at 07.00, he insisted. To reach remote areas, seven helicopters are being used, four hired commercially by STAE, and three lent by the South African government.

Asked if there might be any repetition of the embarrassing situation that occurred in the 2004 elections when many polling stations found that they had the wrong electoral register or no register at all, which disenfranchised citizens who had registered at those stations, Naife was confident that such blunders would be avoided this time.

He said that the production and distribution of the electoral registers had been decentralised to district level, which should avoid registers going astray and ending up in the wrong part of the country.

There are a total of 12,694 polling stations for a registered electorate of over 9.8 million.

(source)

PRIME Maputo 2009

2009-10-22T11:37:00.000+02:00

We have welcomed 5 doctors and 1 nurse, to teach different subjects at the Medical Scholl in Maputo.

Along with the training, this group was able to visit some departments of the Central Hospital, and also the Military Hospital in Maputo.

PRIME is an international network of Christians involved in healthcare education, committed to improving the quality and depth of the medical care of patients, especially those in poorer situations. This is done in partnership with health care providers worldwide, to give teaching that equips, inspires and empowers them to give excellent clinical care for the whole person.

World Health Organization Report 1998: "Until recently the health professions have largely followed a medical model, which seeks to treat patients by focusing on medicines and surgery, and gives less importance to beliefs and to faith in healing, in the physician and in the doctor-patient relationship. This reductionist or mechanistic view of patients is no longer satisfactory. Patients and physicians have begun to realise the value of elements such as faith, hope, and compassion in the healing process"

PRIME seeks to redress this balance and restore a compassionate whole person perspective to modern medicine. This is achieved through direct training activities and educating the trainers by equipping them with appropriate skills and support networks. PRIME courses are designed to be acceptable to and accessible by medical professionals, of all faiths or of none, skills and support networks.

On behalf of those students and professionals trained during these 3 days, Thank you!

More about PRIME.

Initiative...

2009-10-10T21:52:00.002+02:00

His name is Narciso, has only one leg, and is for a long period under treatments at the Oncology department in the Central Hospital of Maputo.

He needed a little bit more that 1 USD to start his own business, which gave him already a 800% profit, in few weeks.

This is not "The secret" but only the strenght and willing to live, making him stand up every morning to go out and sell "credit" at the street near the hospital.

"Credit" is what we call the "airtime/minutes" to recharge our cell phones. It is sold all over the place in the city.

No market research or any advanced study to find out that street didn't have anyone selling this product.

With a "microcredit" of USD 1,60 (50 meticais), he was able to buy "minute cards" and sell them with a 10% profit.

Well, the more you sell, the more you make, and the less you spend, the more you keep!

What about this?

10 Years old

2009-10-09T06:40:00.000+02:00

Good morning everyone! It's 6:40 AM and Mariana is ready for school, as always!

The difference: She is not 9 anymore! She is 10!

We are thankful for the wonderful way God has been protecting and caring for Mariana, and allowing us to be her parents.

Sorry, sorry...

2009-10-07T20:44:00.002+02:00

Dear friends,

We have been out of the blogsphere for a while!

After our return from furlough last month, we are still on the process of getting back to normal life.

It hasn't been easy to find time to write here and share as we promised we would. Sorry for this.

Raquel and Mariana started a new school year at the Portuguese School of Mozambique, with new teachers, new classmates, and also completely different schedules.

Alice is back to the Central Hospital of Maputo where she volunteers at the Oncology department, and Jorge is back to his soccer players and friends at the orphanage, to his Ethics classes, translations and many other projects.

Step by step, we are re-arranging everything and prepared for a new season.

After almost 7000 miles traveling during 9 weeks, we had our first weekend of rest, at a small place in South Africa, 1 hour from the Mozambican border.

This place is called White River, but it's knowned for the beautiful green landscapes.

I believe...

2009-09-12T18:49:00.000+02:00

Home,Sweet home

2009-09-05T17:52:00.001+02:00

After 62 days e 7.000 miles, not considering 23 hours travelling between the two hemispheres, we arrived home safely.

At Frankfurt Airport, having coffee and the delicious homemade portuguese cake "Pão de Ló". Thank you Mrs. Elisa.

Take-off ...

Somewhere in the sky...

11 hours later, landing in África...

Soccer and Kids, what a combination...

2009-06-21T20:30:00.002+02:00

We have started our "whole life soccer coaching" school 1 year and half ago, but for the last months, we've decided to do the training, not at the orphanage facilities but outside, at the soccer field, on a primary school in the area.

Every sunday, our group of 35 teens, walk for 5 minutes from the orphanage to this primary school. Today, as always, we went there, but for our surprise, there was a group of 30 kids already at our spot. "Well, someone get here first" I thought. But I was wrong, they were waiting for us! They said "We want to play with your team, can we?"

"Well, if you want to play with our team, you have to join us for all the training, including the discussion time and lesson, is that ok?" Sure! We are ready to join!

This is just incredible. We have started with 30 orphans and know we have 65 kids and teens wanting to be part of our coaching program! We had to split the group, and while Saidate was coaching "long pass" to one group, I was talking with the other group, about "serving others" and the history of the man who asked Jesus about what was the most important commandment!

We are so grateful for this opportunity to serve this group of kids. We know that maybe they will never reach a top position at the sports world, but we can't wait to see what kind of men, they will became, as we have this opportunity to coach "life skills" on their lives.

She is ready for 5th grade...

2009-06-13T20:53:00.000+02:00

Mariana completed this week the first "cicle" of her "student life". At the Portuguese School of Mozambique, all the 4th graders received their certificate and were challenged for a new beginning next September.

Play Doh

2009-06-10T22:05:00.002+02:00

Our little friends at the Central Hospital with their new funny activity! Everything is possible with play doh, from fruit baskets to people! Wonderful to see their faces.

Angola2010 Challenge

2009-06-05T20:45:00.000+02:00

Angola is getting ready to host one of the major sports events ever held in this country - The Cup of African Nations in Soccer, by January of 2010.

During these last two weeks, we had the opportunity to train 40 volunteers and church leaders to serve their country during this Major Event.

Ubabalo "Whole Life Soccer Coaching", KidsGames and a overview of all the potential tools to be used with sports for community transformation, were the main topics of the training. We also had a city comittee from each one of the hosting cities in Angola for the CAN2010: Cabinda, Luanda, Benguela and Lubango.

We will be back soon in Angola, I'm sure!

Thank you

2009-05-18T22:36:00.002+02:00

To all of you, that have contributed with clothes and donations to Mozambique, thank you so much, on behalf of the patients at the Oncology Department - Central Hospital of Maputo.

It was enought to everybody from little children to seniors.

The "teacher" (as we call him) didn't waste time and tried his new outfit.

A special word for these special friends Ana Paula, Clara , Teresa and daughter Raquel, for the support and encoragement in this mission!

Mother's Day

2009-05-10T20:08:00.002+02:00

My mother used to say: I carried you 9 months inside me!

Here in Mozambique, mothers could say: I carried you 9 months inside me and 3 years on my back!

Here in Mozambique, there is no license to rest for young mothers. From the sunrise to the sunset, they carry their babys all over the place. They go to get water and wood, they buy and they sell, they even work on the farm, and cook. Always in their child on the back.

I wonder if one day these man and woman would understand the sacrifice their mothers went through.

What a rainy day...

2009-05-03T21:30:00.002+02:00

What a day!

Its 3 PM and suddenly gets dark, and drop by drop, in few seconds we can't see anything around but rain, and rain, and rain. The emergency lights are on, and we can hardly see the car in front of us.

People run all over the places trying to stay dry, but it seems that water is everywhere.

This is a happy day only for these little kids, playing on the rain, and smiling when we stoped to take the picture.

Have a nice trip back home...

2009-05-01T14:40:00.002+02:00

Its incredible, but time runs!

Our friends, the Calaim's are now traveling back to Portugal, after 15 days visit to Mozambique, not only to know more about our ministry here in Maputo, but to visit Beira, where their younger son, Nuno is working on a short term misionary project.

As always, here is the special moment at Maputo International Airport. In 55 days, will be our turn...

Welcome to Mozambique...

2009-04-21T16:51:00.002+02:00

Visitors... who doesn't love to receive them at home, when we are far from our country?

This time we welcomed the Calaim's, who were bringing their son Nuno for the final phase of a missionary project in the city of Beira.

During a stop over in Maputo, they get to know the city, the "Ant's House" - an orphanage where we have soccer ministry, and the Central Hospital where Alice helps at the Oncology.

Of course we had time to see the wonderful and magnificent God's Creation, as we visit the Kruger National Park and the Mpumalanga Province landscapes of South Africa. Check this Sunset:

This place is called God's Window...

Nuno is somewhere in the middle of "Lisbon Falls"...

Finaly, this is one among more than fifty elephants crossing the road, 60 feet far from our car!

Happy Easter

2009-04-11T14:13:00.004+02:00

Happy Birthday Raquel!

2009-04-09T15:16:00.000+02:00

Raquel is now 13 years old!

This year we gave her something special: a day at the Badplaas Water Park.

Badplaas is a special place in the South African Mountains, only 150 miles from Maputo.

Check these videos:

School bus accident causes one dead and eight injured

2009-04-01T10:06:00.003+02:00

A student of the Portuguese School in Maputo died yesterday and another eight were injured in an accident involving a private bus that provides transportation for the Portuguese school students.
The accident occurred at the Julius Nyerere Avenue, one of the main roads of the Mozambican capital, when a car crashed (Mitsubishi Pajero) against the private bus carrying the students of the Portuguese School.
In statements to Lusa, the director of the Portuguese School, Dina Trigo de Mora, said the student who lost his life is from Mozambican nationality and attended the 9th year of schooling.In turn, Alice Feliciano, a member of the board of the Portuguese School in Maputo, told Lusa that the injured were transported to a private clinic (Clinica Sommerschield).

Source: Lusa

Personal note: Dear friends, our family is shocked with the death of this 14 years old girl and also the driver. We also are grateful for God's protection to our girls. Mariana was traveling in this bus for the last 15 months, in this same schedule, until we changed the contract to another transportation company, last month. Mariana's best friend, Marisa, minutes before the accident, asked a friend's mother for a ride, and didn't take the school bus.

Izilda

2009-03-26T21:33:00.001+02:00

Tropical Cyclone Izilda strengthened rapidly early Thursday before reaching the southern Madagascar coast. Izilda's winds reached 75 mph as it moved onto the Madagascar coast south of Toliara. Izilda began as a weak tropical storm early Thursday with winds of 45 mph. However, it strengthened rapidly over the warm waters of the Mozambique Channel. Izilda reached the coast late Friday morning local time. An estimated 4-8 inches of rain has fallen in the past 24 hours on the southwestern tip of Madagascar. Izilda is weakening, but it has stalled out. It will continue to pelt southwestern Madagascar with heavy rain while moving little through Friday. Izilda will eventually move back over the Mozambique channel this weekend. It is not out of the question that the cyclone maintains its intensity. by Accuweather.com Senior Meteorologist Dave Samuhel

Welcome to Maputo, Mr. Nuno!

2009-03-22T18:56:00.002+02:00

We have a new friend, Nuno, our visitor for the weekend!

Arriving in Maputo last friday night, after a long travel by BUS from Beira where he spent the last 5 months on missionary work; he is now flying to Portugal for a 3 weeks period.

Nuno, you have 3 weeks to get spoiled by mom and dad! After that, please come back, your little students need your help with Math and English!

See you at the airport, Nzungo!

75.2 in Maputo

2009-03-18T15:42:00.002+02:00

Tonight we fell cold and add an extra blanket!
Probably 68 outside...

This morning, we're still cold; and went outside with extra clothes!
Probably 71.6 outside...

It's 3 PM now, and it seems a winter afternoon!
It's 75.2 outside!

Please, don't laugh... our bodies are now adjusted to the African temperatures, and today we remembered our last winter in Portugal.

Men development...

2009-03-12T12:05:00.002+02:00

"We want to focus on the athlete but also on the man - Saidate Moveia, general secretary for União FC, on the new season interview for the Maputo City Championship".

International Sports Ministries (MDI in portuguese) have been helping us with discipline and teaching. Each player is also a person who needs teaching and education so he can overcome all the struggles in live, family, friends, etc...

Read the interview (in portuguese) at the Newspaper Jornal de Noticias

Back to the soccer field...

2009-02-23T16:37:00.002+02:00

We are back to the soccer field, finally!

Well, this nice and green field is only 1 in 3 fields in the city, and this first game will be probably the first and last for all the season. Usually we play at dust and sand fields, and thats where they actually prefer to play.

It was a friendly game, against Costa do Sol team, and the result was 1-2 for our boys. Values on the jerseys and hopefully, on the players behaviour!

After the match, a short trip to the beach, for team building, and to know the vision, and purpose for this new season, where the Bible will be a part of the training bringing the values that will make not only better players, but also better young man, in the different areas of life.

Balls and Smiles

2009-02-18T20:45:00.000+02:00

These "special" kids smiled when they realized the balls were for them.

Although the restrictions to play due to each particular situation, receiving a ball and touch it, is enought to make a different day. In fact, that's why we are here!

Thanks to "Operation Kid-to-Kid" for the donation of 20 soccer balls.

Thank you

2009-02-09T14:27:00.000+02:00

we can praise the Lord that the doctors are hopeful to begin chemotherapy for Gabriel this week. However, the timing of it all depends on a number of variables (ie: scheduled bone scan, bone biopsy, lung biopsy and determining and treating the source of persistant fevers that Gabe has been experiencing). Chemtherapy can't begin until 48 hours after the bone scan and biopsies are complete and the fevers are gone. Obviously there is much to pray for! As well, we can continue to pray for Mike and Sarah as they need rest and energy to keep up with their daily routines surrounding Gabriel. Pray too for Simon, as he adjusts to the routine of visits with mommy, daddy & Gabriel and time with his grandparents and family in between. School is ahead for him also, and we can be praying that the transition to new friends and classroom goes smoothly. Today, the elders of our church had the opportunity to visit and pray over Gabriel. As I thought about that tonight, it reminded me of something. A doctor in our church has a beautiful painting of a surgeon operating on a patient with nurses all around him, but what captivates the viewer most is that standing behind the surgeon and guiding his hands is Jesus. What a hope we have. God IS the "Great Physician!"

In His Grip,Cathy

Know more at www.mikesarahthiessen.com!

Please Pray...

2009-02-03T17:57:00.002+02:00

Our life can change in just a few hours!

That's what happen to our missionary friends from Canada, the Thiessen's, serving in Mozambique with OMS for almost an year.

They left Mozambique yesterday to go back to Canada to seek medical treatment for Gabriel. Obviously this was not in their plans, and has been quite a shock to all of us. They discovered on Friday in South Africa that Gabriel has a tumor of nearly 8 cm in his liver. The blood tests and other scans show that it is most likely cancerous and appears to have spread to the lungs, though a biopsy has not yet been done.

The doctors in Canada have already received the information and just tonight they heard that the chief oncologist and his team are ready to see them upon arrival. That was a comforting word to them!

Let’s lift them up in prayer during this time, knowing our God is still in the business of miracles!

A Special Day...

2009-01-16T19:07:00.002+02:00

What a special day at the Central Hospital. First, the so waited reabilitation of the Oncology Department just started, and second, boys and girls went with "Aunt Alice" to have an Ice Cream and to fell the fresh water of the beach!

Fresh Fruit

2009-01-10T14:59:00.002+02:00

Here, in Mozambique, not everybody can buy, but all can sell!

To buy fruit or vegetables, you don't need to get out of the car, as the sellers will came to you the fastest they can. You also don't need to find who sells the cheapest, because they all have agreed the prices.

The problem is to find the right Mango or the sweetest Pineaple! Anyway, we never do a bad choice - everything is delicious.

Smiling at the Oncology

2008-12-16T23:34:00.005+02:00

Today was a special day at the Oncology Department of Maputo Central Hospital, when the kids discovered that Christmas is also a special season for them!

"Aunt Alice" and "Aunt Paula" arrived earlier to make sure everything would work fine and nothing would be missing. In fact, the table was full with chicken, fruit, juice and popcorn. Chicken was the special guest but the first to go! They just love chicken!

Santa was there for the distribution of small gifts, some clowns with balons, a group of missionaries who would bring music and a bible story about Christmas.

Our daugther Raquel, played as Christmas tree in the story, and took some pictures for us. It was a rainy day outside but a shiny day on the faces of those, sent to the hospital by a disease not invited for their lives.

Tho those who contributed to make this happen, thank you so much! God bless you!

On behalf of those at the Oncology... Kanimambo!

Workshop at Oncology...

2008-11-06T16:50:00.003+02:00

A special day at the Department of Oncology.

Paper, color pencils and lots of imagination from those who entered this service with no date to go back to their homes.

It is wonderful how this simple "gesture" in our lives can be a tremendous moment for the lives of these children, hopeless and unsecure, awaking every morning not knowing nothing about a disease that will probably conquer their fragile lives.

2nd place...

2008-11-06T15:20:00.002+02:00

This season is over and we are glad to see "Unity Soccer Club" finishing at 2nd place, not being promoted to the 2nd league.

Anyway it took them a lot of effort and commitment to reach this place, although they just play for fun, not having any kind of "income", having themselves to pay for their transportation to the field.

Note: A special word to Alice, who has been their loving "mother" washing their jerseys after each game, so the white can still be white!