Toler notes youthful potential in SAM

Global Ministry Center

Thursday, March 11, 2010

In recent district assemblies in Peru, Brazil, and Bolivia, Stan Toler recognized a growing generation of leaders, ordaining almost 50 individuals into the ministry. "It is obvious that education and preparing ministers through the course of study are high priorities for South America," said Toler, jurisdictional general superintendent for the South America Region (SAM).

Encouraging growth and a consistent spirit of generosity were evident among SAM Nazarenes. Offerings for their Nazarene brothers and sisters in Haiti were received at every location during this tour. In addition, Regional Director Christian Sarmiento continued to challenge leaders and pastors to give to the World Evangelism Fund (WEF). District statistics showed widespread growth in WEF giving, with the Brazil Sudeste Paulista District giving 587% more than last year, the Brazil Santa Catarina District a 316% increase, and many other districts doubling their previous giving.

In addition, individual churches are making great strides in their mission to make Christlike disciples in the nations. In Campinas, Brazil, Toler preached in the new Hope Church of the Nazarene. A satellite congregation of the Campinas Central Church, it is averaging over 1,000 in attendance after only one year. The new 1,500 seat sanctuary that was constructed debt-free by the Campinas Central Church was filled nearly to capacity. A great crowd at the altar completed the exciting worship service in a Spirit-filled time of prayer.

The Brazil Sudeste Paulista District has been divided four times in order to birth new districts. Nevertheless, it continues to show growth with over 50 churches, several mission-type churches, and a total membership of more than 20,000, making it one of the largest districts in the world.

Accompanied by his wife, Linda, Toler was the first general superintendent to visit Salvador, the location for the Brazil Nordeste Meridional District assembly. Sarmiento was the first SAM regional director and Aguiar Valvassoura the first director of the sub-region to visit Salvador. A school had been rented to accommodate the large crowd. Some of the pastors traveled 800 miles to attend this service filled with vibrant and energetic music. "I was encouraged to see that most of the people in the worship team were very young - representative of the age of most people in the congregation."

These travels overall were marked by celebratory worship services with a notable number of young people attending and participating in the district assemblies. "There is great potential for growth in the days ahead," Toler said. "The leadership team of the South America Region is united and working together in partnership with all the regions of the world to fulfill the Great Commission."
--Board of General Superintendents (Slideshow available)

 

< back to South America

next article >