First Steps
Hello Supporters and Friends!
I hope all is well for you! I have finally moved to Portel! It took about a week to get from Altamira to having my stuff moved in and organized, but now I am starting to settle in. I am very excited to get started with the school project, as well as become familiar with my new city.
One of the things that has been amazing is the house I was able to rent. It’s not too expensive, but it’s quite large and beautiful. It has 3 bedrooms, bathroom and living room, as well as a veranda and backyard. Because there is so much space, I was able to help out Richie’s family by storing some of their things from their old house in Porto de Moz. Manoela will be staying in the other bedroom when she comes. I need to make a few upgrades to the house, like putting screens on the windows to keep out the mosquitoes, but nothing major. It is also very close to the beach. Another great thing about Portel is that the city is small enough that I can ride a bike to get around. It is very charming!
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| The Front Veranda |
The team here has been working away to finish off the building that will be used for our church and school. They have come a long way, but still need to install a roof. Once the roof is on, they plan to finish at least one of the rooms for now. They currently need an additional $5000 for the roof and the first room. If you are interested in donating to help complete this project, please go to this link http://www.xingu.org/15e1_portel_donation.html. Or you can contact me directly at allison.rupert@xingu.org.
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| The Building at its current progress |
One of the projects that Richie and his team has already started here is the Water Filter Project. Basically, they build cement water filters, and then take them out to the river communities and give them away. The filters are effective and easy to maintain, and of course, help provide clean water to those who use the river water for everything. One of the sponsors for the project asked for a picture, so we sent them this.
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| Some of the kids from our church |
I want to thank all of you who have been so faithful in helping me get to this next step in the journey. I have such high hopes for what can be accomplished in this precious town. I ask that you please continue to pray for me for God’s protection and direction. I feel extremely blessed to be working for the King, and you should, too! I want to also bless all of you and your families. I pray that God continues to meet you daily, and continues to show you his undying and eternal love. He is truly our friend forever. There is a verse in Hebrews that has been on my heart lately, and I want to share it with you.
“For this reason he had to be made like them, fully human in every way, in order that he might become a merciful and faithful high priest in service to God, and that he might make atonement for the sins of the people. Because he himself suffered when he was tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted.” Hebrews 2:17-18
What a merciful and gentle God we have, one who sacrificed so much to be with us and fight for us. He is truly worthy of everything we have to offer him.
God bless you all,
Take Care,
Allison
Please take a look at the link for more pictures.