Learn More about Northeast Brazil (Sertão)
Field Location: The Northeast of Brazil is dry, physically and spiritually. The Sertão, a significant part of the Northeast of Brazil, is an arid and drought-prone region. Most people live in harsh conditions. Slave resistance in the 17th century eventually led to the formation of Quilombolas –settlements of runaway and free-born African slaves. Now, most people are of mixed European, Indigenous, and African ancestry. They live as subsistence farmers, cotton sharecroppers, or ranch hands. Water is scarce. Less than 50% of the households have sanitation. Life expectancy in the Sertão is the lowest in Brazil. In addition, people are in spiritual darkness without hope or a vision of a better future. However, they are open and receptive. There are many underreached and underserved communities in this area of northeast Brazil, with immense opportunities to be the hands and feet of God – in both physical and spiritual ministries.
The people we visited are asking, ‘When can you come?’
EFM/RMYM are seeking followers of Jesus who are willing to consider the ‘great adventure’ with the primary purpose of evangelizing largely unreached people groups at “the End of the Earth” – in this case, the Sertão region of Northeast Brazil. The Quilombola, Atikum tribal people, and the Cigano (Gypsy) live in the Sertão of Northeast Brazil, in a region of the world without hope where most have not heard the name of Jesus Christ or do not know of his love for all people.
Do you sense that call? Are you willing to consider such an adventure with the support and training of EFM? The Luke 10 exploratory team returned with the report that the need is great, and the people are open and asking when we might send workers to the field.
EFM is looking for the following:
- Educational Skills: Teaching English or other subjects, across all age groups, offering direct opportunities for ministry.
- Agriculture and Trades: Individuals with farming experience, as well as skills in trades like plumbing and construction, bring valuable practical expertise to the community.
- Water and Medical Professionals: Water technicians and healthcare providers to meet critical needs and can contribute meaningfully to community health and well-being.
- Discipleship for Development (D4D): Candidates familiar with D4D principles can help lead spiritual and community transformation.
- Love for families, children and youth. Couples or families with strong values that can model good family dynamics and responsibilities.
- Relational Skills: Those who are naturally relational, good listeners, and able to engage meaningfully with others will be essential to building trust and fostering a sense of belonging.
- Diverse Team Composition: We seek to form a multigenerational team, with roles for retirees, young families, singles, and individuals at any career stage. This diversity enriches the team and reflects the breadth of the community we’re aiming to serve.
To learn more about the field of Brazil, check out these past trip reports!