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A fellowship that began as a home Bible study and prayer meeting three years ago has grown into the Torrance Brazilian Portuguese Outpost and recently enrolled 25 new soldiers.
The ministry, under the leadership of Isaias Beck Braga and Adelma Braga, officially became an outpost of the Torrance, Calif., corps last March. “It’s now blossomed to a membership of more than 100 men, women, and children,” says Torrance Corps Officer Captain Doug Tollerud.
Many of the members are new converts, and are professionals who work in businesses related to import/export, airlines, and restaurants. Isaias, who was in the Brazilian military for 10 years, grew up the son of a Wesleyan evangelist in Brazil. Adelma attended a Salvation Army Sunday school in Sao Paolo as a child.
Visiting leader Commissioner Carl Eliasen, international consultant for Latin America and former International Secretary for the Americas and Caribbean, enrolled the new soldiers. He inspired them to be faithful to Jesus Christ as they soldier in The Salvation Army and to hold fast to the truths of Scripture. Commissioner Maria Eliasen attended the services as well.
Afterwards, worshippers enjoyed a time of fellowship at the corps, complete with traditional Brazilian refreshments.