December 30, 2009, Campo Limpo Paulista, Sao Paulo, Brazil
Dear friends,
Greetings from your co-workers to the Portuguese-Speaking world!
How great are your works, O LORD, how profound your thoughts! Psalm 92.5
Wow time flies! This month we are celebrating 8 years since we came back to Brazil! December 23rd, I (Jeff) had my 44th birthday; the CLP (Campo Limpo Paulista) Church did a great celebration for me! January 7th, 2010, Monica and I will celebrate our 21st wedding anniversary! It is hard to realize that Roger is 16 years-old and Isaac is 12. Talking about the boys, they did great at school this year, we are very proud of them. Roger finishes the 11th grade and Isaac the 7th grade. They had been on summer school vacation since December 2nd. They both continue to practice basketball, and they play for the city team. To celebrate how good they did at school we took the first weekend in December off and went to the beach, we had three days of lots of fun! The Christmas Celebration this year at the CLP Church was the responsibility of the youth group. Roger and Isaac were part of the play presented by the youth group. Roger had the principal acting part. They did a great job, as you can see we are proud of our boys! The presentation was on December 13th! Our family Christmas Celebration was at Monica’s parents home Dec 24th eve. My brother Faifo was in Brazil and he did come and spend the evening with us! It was a great visit! Monica just did an update cat-scan and she is recuperating just fine. She asked the doctor about all the pain she still has, the numbness on her face, and all the terrible headaches she has every month. The doctor told her that she will need another 3 to 5 years to recuperate from her surgery and some things may never be normal again. The doctor told her to take it easy, take her time, and that she should work less, she been working too hard. Talking about Monica, she celebrate her 40th birthday anniversary on October 13th; the CLP Church did a great celebration for her. Let’s continue to pray for Monica’s total recuperation! During the second semester Monica worked with the ladies at the CLP Church with a project call Dorcas Project for Mozambique, Africa. They did many art crafts and sold them on December 19th, all the profit will go to buy desks for the school in Mozambique. Each desk with a chair costs $50 (US Dollars). If you would like to donate a desk with a chair to the Hope School in Mozambique, please send your gift to Brazil River of Life Ministries, and write on the check memo “Desks for Mozambique.” The school has 700 students and needs 375 desks, since half of the students study in the morning and the other half in the afternoon. We are working on a 90 day transition at the CLP Church. Starting December 1st, I’m not the minister at CLP Church. Since we are planning to plant a new church at Jundiai in the beginning of 2010 we need more time to coordinate this new church plant. We have been working for the last 5 years at CLP Church discipling and training new leaders, and by the grace of God we have brothers that are ready to take over the work. Brother Edson is the new minister at CLP Church, and he is doing a great job. We are working together with Brother Edson and the elders at CLP Church so this transition will be smooth; the people are reacting in a good way until now. Praise the Lord! In November Monica was one of the speakers and worship leaders at the 2nd Women Christian Church/Church of Christ Southeast Conference in Campinas, Sao Paulo. I was one of the speakers at the National Christian Church/Church of Christ Convention in Goiania, Goias. Monica and I went to the convention and the boys stayed at Monica’s parent’s home. In the first weekend of November we celebrate Pirituba’s Church anniversary. This is the church where Monica’s father is the minister. Monica led the worship, and I was the speaker.We promoted the First Southeast Christian Church/Church of Christ Convention in October for all the churches in the area. We had 8 churches present. All churches had the opportunity to participate with music, Monica led worship and I was one of the speakers. Brazil celebrates in October, Children Day. Monica organized a trip to an amusement park for the children at CLP Church; she had over 50 children and 10 good helpers. In the last weekend in September we celebrated the Campo Eliseus, Campinas Church anniversary. Monica led the worship, and I was the speaker. Brother Tiago is the minister at this church.
In August we had a Youth Retreat only for the CLP Church youth. We had over 40 campers; it was a great opportunity to minister to the youth group. In February 2010, we will promote the First Southeast Christian Church/Church of Christ Youth Camp; we plan to have 150 campers for 3 days at a camp that we have rented for this purpose. During the second semester we continue with the Bible College at CLP Church. In August we studied Mathew, Mark and Luke, Brother Waldiberto (Minister at Piracicaba Church) was the professor. In September we studied Church Leadership and in October, Church Plant and Growth, and I was the professor. In November we studied the Gospel of John and Brother Waldiberto was the professor. Classes will resume in February! Monica led the Women’s Tea in August and October for the ladies at CLP Church. And I led the Men’s Breakfast in September and November. Every first Saturday of the month we have a leadership meeting for the 4 churches closer to CLP Church, and every three months we have a leadership meeting for the 15 churches in the Southeast. I’m responsible to speak at these leadership meetings and Monica meets with the ladies to teach about children ministry and prepare for the Women Convention. These are only some of the highlights of what God has done through our lives during the 2nd semester, 2009! To Him be all the glory and honor! Thanks for your prayer and financial support that has made it possible for us to serve the Lord another year!
Please pray for us as we prepare for another year, that the Lord will use us for His honor and glory! Pray for God to touch people’s heart to help us plant the Jundiai Church. We need to raise $10,000.00 (US Dollars) for this purpose and we have less than $300.00 for this purpose so far. We wish you and your family a blessed 2010! May the Lord richly bless you in Christ Jesus! Happy New Year!
Your prayers and financial support are vital for us! Please continue to pray for us, we need all the prayers we can get!

God is good all the time and all the time God is Good!
In HIS Love and Service,

Jeff, Monica, Roger, and Isaac Fife

BRAZIL RIVER OF LIFE MINISTRIES/MINISTÉRIO RIO DE VIDA
Reaching the Portuguese-Speaking World for Christ!
Evangelism - Dicipleship - New Church Plant

Address For Contribution:
Brazil River of Life Ministries - c/o Elena Coelho
PO Box 8262 - Gray - TN 37615
Ph: 423-741-4907
E-mail: ebrasa@hotmail.com

Address For Correspondence:
Rua dos Jacarandas, 120 Jardim Timbará
CEP 13233-152 - Campo Limpo Pta - SP - Brazil
Ph: 011-55-11-4038-3422 - Cell: 011-55-11-9955-7749
E-Mail: RLM_Fifes@hotmail - Blog: http://riveroflifeministries.blogspot.com/

SUMMER 2009

Greetings from your coworkers to the Portuguese-Speaking World,

It is with great satisfaction that we would like to inform you that we are in the processes of re-registering our ministry. Consulting with our board of trustees we have come to the conclusion that we needed make some difference on the ministry name so it would be more accurate. There are dozens of River of Life Ministries throughout the USA, so we have decided to add Brazil to the Ministries name. The ministry Mission and Vision continues the same. As soon we are through with the process of re-registering we will let you know. The new name will be: Brazil River of Life Ministries, Inc. Take a look at the new logo!

During these first 7½ years that we been working with the Portuguese-Speaking World in the state of São Paulo, Brazil, God has used us in many great ways for His glory. Right now we are very happy that He has allowed us to come to the USA and visit our supporting churches, friends and family.
Through these 7½ years God has given us the opportunity to help plant 10 churches and help restore 8 churches that were dying in Brazil. One of these churches we have been working with personally since it was planted in January 2005. When God allowed us to start meeting at the location where we are in the city of Campo Limpo Paulista we were only 11 people working and praying for the Lord to bless this new church plant. Today the Campo Limpo church has 132 members and it is getting ready to plant its first congregation in Jundiai.
Campo Limpo Paulista city has approximately 90 thousand population, Jundiai has approximately ½ million. Jundiai is about 10 miles from Campo Limpo Paulista and 30 members of the Campo Limpo Church live in Jundiai including two of the elders, Ruben and Jose. The state of Sao Paulo has 40 million population and only 9% are Evangelicals-Christians.
On our vision statement it says “Reach the lost through Evangelism”. God has allowed us to promote over 200 events to reach all ages, through the many locations that we have helped plant new churches. We promote at least three big events per year to reach the children. Every other month Monica promotes a Women’s Tea and I (Jeff) promote a Men’s Breakfast. Every three months we have a big evangelistic event for the youth. As a result we have had the opportunity of baptizing almost 200 new converts into Christ.
As we reach the lost through Evangelism, our next step is “mentoring and equipping through Discipleship”. Through the years we have offered many types of Discipleship. I have put together new converts discipleship material that teaches about baptism, church membership, discipline in the church, stewardship and what it is to be a disciple. Right after the new convert and new comers from other churches go through this material they go through a short booklet that I have written about the Restoration Movement and its beliefs. Then we study with them the booklet my father (Tom Fife) wrote on Communion “The Breaking of Bread”. We call this material 3 in 1 for new convents and transfers.
Another Discipleship material I have written is about Eldership and Deaconship. The church separates them and they are taught what it is to be an elder and what it is to be a deacon. Then after two years of experience and training they are voted on by the congregation.
Every month we have a Leadership and Ministry Meeting at the church in Campo Limpo for leaders of four of the churches that are under BRLM (Brazil River of Life Ministries) and every three months we have a State Meeting for leaders of 15 churches.
A dream was to start in June 2008 the Bible College at Campo Limpo. One subject is taught at a time. The Classes are every 2nd and 4th Saturday of the month from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
The Evangelism and the Discipleship is done with the purpose to “Plant New Churches”.
Monica is very active not only in the local ministry at Campo Limpo Church but throughout BRLM events. At the local church she leads the Children’s Ministry. She is responsible for the Music and Special events celebration (Christmas, Easter, Mothers and Fathers Day and etc.).
The World Convention will be in Brazil in 2012 and prior to that there is a Women’s World Gathering promoted by the Global Women Connecting. Monica was chosen to be the president from 2009 to 2012. In Brazil last year we promoted the first Women’s Conference for the Southeast Churches and there were over 100 ladies participating.
Another ministry that Monica and I work with together is the Couples Ministry. We give them a course on marriage during the second semester of each year.
BRLM Mission statement is to “Reach the Portuguese-Speaking World for Jesus Christ”. There 9 countries and over 230 million people that speak Portuguese in the world. The Churches of Christ/Christian Churches in Brazil have sent and support mission work in all of these countries. So we have teamed up with this mission work. They use all of our discipleship material and when it is possible we go personally to visit and encourage them. Last February Roger and I went to Mozambique, Brother John Leech, elder and mission leader from Seymour Heights Christian Church, went with us also. Our goals for the next year are: Continue with the evangelistic events and discipleship programs. Plant the Jundiai Church in the fall of 2009. We need $10,000 (US Dollars) to start up and $1,000 per month for 3 years for this church plant. Plant the Caeiras Church in the fall of 2010. Visit the mission work in Angola, September 2010.
We need to raise 24.5% increase on our regular support to so we can keep up the ministry work due to the devaluation of the US dollar. Our net loss is $1,300 (US Dollars). God is good all the time and all the time God is Good!
In HIS Love and Service,

Jeff, Monica, Roger, and Isaac Fife

BRAZIL RIVER OF LIFE MINISTRIES/MINISTÉRIO RIO DE VIDA
Reaching the Portuguese-Speaking World for Christ!
Evangelism - Dicipleship - New Church Plant

Address For Contribution:
Brazil River of Life Ministries - c/o Elena Coelho
PO Box 8262 - Gray - TN 37615
Ph: 423-741-4907
E-mail: ebrasa@hotmail.com

Address For Correspondence:
Rua dos Jacarandas, 120 Jardim Timbará
CEP 13233-152 - Campo Limpo Pta - SP - Brazil
Ph: 011-55-11-4038-3422 - Cell: 011-55-11-9955-7749
E-Mail: RLM_Fifes@hotmail - Blog: http://riveroflifeministries.blogspot.com/

FEBRUARY 2009
CAMPO LIMPO PAULISTA – SÃO PAULO – BRAZIL

But my righteous one will live by faith. And if he shrinks back, I will not be pleased with him." But we are not of those who shrink back and are destroyed, but of those who believe and are saved. (Hebrews 10.38-39NVI).

DEAR PRAYER PARTNERS AND SUPPORTERS,

Greetings from your co-workers to the Portuguese-Speaking World!

2008 was probably the most difficult year for us since we arrived in December 2001 to work in Brazil. Monica's health was a big issue, but we are so thankful that she is doing so well after the tumor was removed from her brain. She is not back 100% to what she used to be, but is at least about 75%. With all the stress we went through last year my (Jeff) health did not hold up and I had to take some time off in January and go through a health treatment. I'm feeling a lot better.

When we finished our 2008 Audit Financial Report, for the first time in all the years serving our Lord, RLM (River of Life Ministries) had a net loss of ($1,499.95) US Dollar. By the first of each month we usually have the amount needed for that month.

As the Hebrew writer wrote "we are not of those who shrink back and are destroyed, but of those who believe and are saved". Since we live by faith, we are even stronger in our faith and assurance of our call. And we will not retreat, for our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal. (2 Corinthians 4.17-18).

HERE ARE SOME REASONS FOR PRAISING OUR LORD:

Women's Convention - On the first weekend of December Monica spoke at the first Christian Church/Church of Christ Women's Convention for the Southeast of Brazil. At this opportunity they asked her to give her testimony of how God brought her through the surgery. It was a very emotional service; Monica spoke about each step she went through from the day we discovered she had the brain tumor, to the present. For each moment, God gave her a scripture verse and a song. As she shared, she played the piano and sang the songs.

The Convention was a blessing; 96 women were registered.

Couples' Ministry - Every other Monday, Monica and I meet with the couples at the CLP (Campo Limpo Paulista) Church and teach them a marriage course. Last semester we taught on Building Your Marriage and 17 couples participated. To end the course we had a special dinner. This ministry has been a true blessing for us and the couples.

Christmas Celebration - Each year one of the ministries at the CLP church, is responsible for the Christmas Celebration. This time was the Children's Ministry opportunity. Monica worked with them and they presented a beautiful cantata.

Southeast Leadership Meeting - On the last Saturday of 2008 we promoted a lunch meeting for leaders from all the Christian Churches/Churches of Christ for the Southeast of Brazil. At this meeting I spoke on the topic: How Much is Your Reputation Worth? We had leaders from 6 churches and we made an agenda to meet 4 times in 2009 and we will promote the first Christian Church/Church of Christ Southeast of Brazil Convention in October of this year.

New Year's Eve Service - It is a Brazilian custom to end the old year & start the new, praying at the church. Our service at CLP started at 10 p.m., & after the service we had a New Year Feast.

12 Days of Purpose - Each day represents a month of the year. Our purpose in promoting these 12 Days of Purpose is to thank the Lord for the New Year and to honor Him with the "first fruits" of the year asking Him to bless and use us in each and every month of 2009. We started on Monday 5th and ended on Friday 16th. I preached on "The 12 Keys to Have Your Prayers Answered". We average 98 per day in attendance during these 12 days. That's amazing; when we promoted the fist 12 Days of Purpose in 2006, we averageed only 28 per day in attendance.

Wedding Anniversary - Monica and I celebrated our 20th Wedding Anniversary on Jan 7th. It was a great opportunity to go out and celebrate!

Koinonia - Fellowship (Jan 17) - After the 12 Days of Purpose the whole church at CLP spent the Saturday at a ranch where we had some Brazilian barbeque, and lots of recreation.

Vacation (Jan 19 through 20) - We took a 10-day vacation, but we stayed home most of the time. The purpose was to rest and have some time for the family. We did lots of "fixing" around the house; Roger has become a great helper and is doing a lot of the work himself.

Wedding (Jan 24) - Monica's cousin Renata got married and we went to her wedding in Ribeirão Preto, a city about 260 miles from our home. It was great to see many of Monica's relatives, many of whom we saw 20 years ago at our wedding.

Back to School - Roger and Isaac started their school, after a nice summer vacation, on Monday Jan 26. Roger is a sophomore in High School and Isaac is a 7th grader. Roger intends to move to the USA in 2010 to finish High School and pursue his college studies there.

CLP Church Anniversary (Jan 30 through Feb 1) - The CLP Church celebrated its 4th anniversary. We planted this church in Jan, 2005. When we started we were a courageous bunch, totalling 11. Now we have 130 members! This church is ready to plant a new congregation in Jundiai this year. On Friday Jan 30th we had a well-known praise band blessing us with their music.

On Saturday Jan 31, we had the participation of praise bands from churches in Campinas, Campos Eliseos, Itapevi and Pirituba. Our speaker this year was Brother Carlos Queiroz. Brother Carlos is the Executive Director for World Vision in Brazil and Minister at the Christian Church/Church of Christ in Fortaleza in the Northeast.

Global Women Connecting - Since the 2012 World Convention will be in Brazil, the Global Women Connecting needed a Brazilian President. Monica was honored to be chosen by the Brazilians to be the president. Pray that she will be able to fulfill her responsibilities.

Youth Outreach - At Pirituba's church on Saturday, Feb 14. At this event the Youth from CLP, Carrãozinho, Itapevi and Pirituba participate.

HERE ARE SOME SPECIFIC PRAYER REQUESTS & UPCOMING EVENTS:

Mozambique Mission Trip - Roger and I will be traveling to Mozambique Saturday, Feb 21 and we will be returning Tuesday, Mar 3. The purpose for this trip is to encourage and see the work in Mozambique. I have dreamed of taking Roger with me to Mozambique before he moves to the USA in 2010. Through the generosity of God's people, we received all the funds needed for this trip; we serve a Mighty God. We will meet Brother John Leech, from Seymour Heights Christian Church, on our way to Mozambique. We hope to take a couple of days to visit Shawn and Sarah Gardener in South Africa.

New Church Plant - Starting now we are raising funds to plant a new congregation in Jundiai, SP. Jundiai is a city located about 13 miles from CLP Church and has a population of about half a million. We are forming a team of 30 from the church in CP to plant this new congregation. We will need $10,000 (US Dollar) to start this new church. This money will be used to rent a building (we'll need three months for deposit), plus we'll need to buy chairs, sound equipment, instruments, children's materials and etc.

2009 Furlough - We are happy to announce that we will be leaving Brazil on Friday, June 26 and will be staying in the USA for 45 days, returning to Brazil on Monday, August 3. We would like to visit all of our upporters, friends and family if possible. So PLEASE get in touch with us as soon as possible so we can work out our agenda. Thanks!

Please Pray - We need your prayers! Pray for our family, health and ministry, that the Lord will use us for His honor and glory! We are praying for you! May the Lord give you wisdom and courage to do His will in your life!

Your prayers and financial support are vital for our lives and ministry! Thanks for your prayers and support!

God is good all the time and all the time God is Good!
In HIS Love and Service,
Jeff, Monica, Roger, and Isaac Fife

CHRISTMAS 2008
CAMPO LIMPO PAULISTA – SÃO PAULO – BRAZIL

She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus,because he will save his people from their sins. (Mathew 1.21NVI).

DEAR PRAYER PARTNERS AND SUPPORTERS,

Grace and Peace from your co-workers to the Portuguese-Speaking World!

As Christmas and the end of this year approach, we're working and trying to get everything done before the end of the year. I (Jeff) am dedicating my time to write all the receipts and submit a report for the ministry. This year has been a very different one for us; we've been through new and hard experiences. I confess, it was very hard for us to go through Monica's surgery.

The boys had a hard time at school; their minds were on their Mommy, so they weren’t as dedicated as they're used to being, but thank God they passed and are enjoying summer school vacation. Roger and Isaac are both playing basketball and Isaac is very good in soccer. They're very active at the local church. Both play drums for the worship team, and Roger helps teach his Sunday School class. When we started the Bible College Roger asked permission to study, and since classes are on Saturdays we decided to allow him to study, even though he's still in high school. He's doing a great job; who knows, He may be a 5th generation of preachers in our family.
Monica is doing well, although she's still a long way from how she used to be (if in fact she'll ever be able to do all she used to be able to do). She loves the Lord and works for His Kingdom with the same dedication she always did. She is as sweet as ever!
The church in Campo Limpo Paulista, where we're directly involved, has matured a lot during this year - a growth of 30%! All the other churches under RLM (River of Life Ministries) grew; in October, we even planted a new church in the Northeast.

It's always hard for me to speak about myself, but at this time I need your prayers. Since July when we returned from our 10-day vacation, I had pneumonia; my health just isn't the same anymore. My nerves & immune system are very weak. After many exams the doctors concluded that my stress level is very high and I need some medical treatment and some vacation. According to the doctors, it's the stress of our work, plus the stress of being held at gunpoint. For those who don't know I was held at gun point twice during the last few years. Once, while I was teaching in the Bible College in Campinas about 35 miles from our home, three young men tried to kidnap me; they held a .38 to my chest, but thank God they only took the car. Then later, while I was preaching in the Northeast of Brazil, the bus I rode during the night from one city to the next was hijacked, and for 3 hours they held a 12 gauge to my head during the whole time. Now, with Monica's surgery, it all added up to more than enough to make me stressed out. I'm full of dreams and goals for 2009, and God willing, we'll plant a new church in Jundiai by March of 2009 . . . and we'll need your help for this to happen. Please pray!

God allowed us to make a down payment and finance a home, so now we're no longer paying rent. For this reason we moved. The house we're buying is very small, but God willing, it will be ours after a few years of payments. It's located 5 miles from the church at Campo Limpo Paulista, outside the city; for this reason we had no internet access for 2 months. We tried every type of internet access, but found none that would work, because of being outside the city. The reason we bought a home in the country was the price; in the city it would cost 50% more and the down payment we had saved through the years for this purpose wasn't very much. Finally, we're able to connect to the internet through the cell phone, so now we are back in communication through internet.

We're sorry to announce, we can't come to the USA in January. We’ ad planned to come, and were looking forward to the opportunity to see each one of you, but here are our reasons for not coming at this time: The tickets for the dates we needed were sold out. We could only get tickets for January 15 or later, which was too late for us; the boys will be back to school February 2nd. Even though we've saved for this trip, we didn't have the total amount needed, and at present, the ministry is in the red, so we used our travel money to sustain the ministry. (My health doesn't permit me to travel at present, either.) Hope you understand our position and can wait a few more months for us to come. We plan to leave Brazil June 26, and return August 10, 2009; so please start scheduling a date for us to come over and visit you during the summer. Sorry to disappoint!

Even though I've been weak, God has been strong and has done mighty things through our lives in the last few months. Thanks for supporting and praying for us! Your prayers and support are vital for our lives and ministry! Please pray for us!

Merry Christmas and a Blessed 2009!
Thanks for all you do for the Lord Jesus and His Kingdom!
Your prayers and financial support are vital for our lives and ministry! Thanks for your prayers and support!
God is good all the time and all the time God is Good!
In HIS Love and Service,
Jeff, Monica, Roger, and Isaac Fife

ANNUAL MISSIONARY REPORT

NAME: Jeff and Monica Fife

MAILING ADDRESS (INCLUDE EMAIL AND WEBSITE):
Av. da Saudade 163 – Jardim Guanciale
13236 Campo Limpo Pta – SP Brazil (South America)
E-mail: mailto:rlm_fifes@hotmail.com
http://riveroflifeministries.blogspot.com/

TELEPHONE CONTACT:
Phone: 011-55-11-4038-3422
Cell: 011-55-11-9955-7749

FORWARDING AGENT AND CONTACT INFORMATION:
River of Life Ministries - c/o Elena Coelho
PO Box 8262 - Gray - TN 37615
Ph: 423-741-4907
E-mail: mailto:ebrasa@hotmail.com

MISSION FIELD AND PEOPLE GROUP:
River of Life Ministries

HOW LONG HAVE YOU SERVED ON THIS FIELD?
We have been at the present location since December 2001 (6 years and 9 months). Monica and I (Jeff) were born and raised working in the ministry with our parents and we will complete 20 years working in the ministry as a couple in January 2009.

WHAT WAS YOUR ORIGINAL TIME COMMITMENT TO THIS MINISTRY?
We may not be at the same location for the rest of our lives, but we are committed to this ministry for life.

WHAT IS YOUR CURRENT TIME COMMITMENT TO THIS MINISTRY?
For life!

TYPE (S) OF MINISTRY: (PLEASE CHECK):
Evangelism (X) Church Planting (X)
Equipping/Discipling (X) Missionary Assistance ( )
Medical Missions ( ) Benevolence ( )
Missionary Preparation (X) Translation Services ( )
Counseling (X) Short Term Missions (X)
Other ( ) Please Explain:

YOUR MINISTRY MISSION STATEMENT:
MISSION: Reach the Portuguese-speaking world for Jesus Christ
VISION: Reach the lost through Evangelism, mentoring and equipping through Discipleship, to Plant New Churches

YOUR TYPICAL DAY AND PRIMARY MINISTRY ACTIVITIES:
TYPICAL DAY:
Get up at 6:20 a.m.
Roger and Isaac leave for school at 6:55 a.m.
2 hours per day are devoted to prayer, devotion and reading.
2 hours per day are devoted for preparation of discipleship, preaching, and teaching material.
Check e-mail and correspondence as needed and as time permits.
At 12:30 p.m. Roger and Isaac come back from school and we have lunch as a family.
Our family dinner is served at 6:30 p.m.
We receive many phone calls every day for counseling and we meet personally with the people when it's needed.
Roger and Isaac go to bed at 9:30 p.m. I (Jeff) personally read the Bible and pray with them before they go to bed every night.
Monica and I go to bed after midnight.

MINISTRY ACTIVITIES:
SUNDAY:Worship team practice at 5:00 p.m.
Sunday School at 6:00 p.m.
Sunday Service at 7:00 p.m.
Once per month we have elders' meeting at 10:00 a.m.
Once every two months we have men's breakfast at 9:00 a.m.
MONDAY:Monica and I (Jeff) take the morning off for us as the boys are at school.
First Monday of each month Monica has a meeting at 8:00 p.m. with all the volunteers of the Children's Ministry.
Every two weeks we teach marriage classes at 8:00 p.m.
When needed, Jeff makes visits with one or more of the elders.
TUESDAY:Small Home Prayer Groups meet at the homes at 08:00 p.m. Each week we visit and encourage one of the 7 groups. All these groups are led by the elders and other leaders from the church.
WEDNESDAY:Monica teaches piano and English lessons from 3:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. with a one hour break for dinner.
Jeff makes visits with one or more of the elders.
From 8:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Jeff disciples the new converts.
THURSDAY:As soon as Roger and Isaac come home from school we take the rest of the day off as a family day.
FRIDAY:Friday night service at 8:00 p.m.
Worship team practice at 9:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.
SATURDAY:First Saturday of each month we have a meeting at 10:00 a.m. with all the leaders from all 4 churches in the state of Sao Paulo that work in alliance with RLM (River of Life Ministry).
Two Saturdays per month we have Bible College classes from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
One Saturday per month we have an evangelistic event in one of the churches that work in alliance with RLM.
One Saturday per month Monica leads a women's tea.

HOW IS GOD WORKING THROUGH YOUR MINISTRY AND WHAT WERE YOUR PROFESSIONAL HIGHLIGHTS OF THE PAST YEAR?
God is doing wonderful things through our lives. We have baptized 13 at the CLP (Campo Limpo Paulista Church) during the last year. The 8 churches that work in alliance with RLM have reported 32 baptisms in the past year. We have received many new members who have come from many other church backgrounds, most of whom were without a church for more than a year. These are people who were hurt in other churches and left the church; they've been restored in their faith though our ministry. In the past year the CLP Church had a 30% growth. During the past year we have had the opportunity to promote many ways of discipleship. The church at CLP was planted in January 2005 with the financial help of First Christian Church in Johnson City. We started with 11 members. After two years, in February 2007, we separated 5 men to be trained and become elders. The CLP Church has now 112 members.
At CLP Church we started having home prayer groups meeting in July 2008. We started with 4 groups and now have 7 groups meeting every Tuesday night. All these Small Prayer Groups are led by elders and other leaders who have been trained by the elders to become small group leaders. The average combined attendance at the Home Prayer Groups is 72 per week.
Once per month we meet with leaders from the 4 churches in the state of Sao Paulo that work in alliance with RLM for leadership training. Through these meetings we have seen them grow spiritually.
As we promote marriage classes every two weeks for the couples at the CLP Church we have seen changes in their marriages and families.
One of our goals since we started to work at this location was to start a Bible College. In May 2008, we were able to start the College with 22 students. Most of the students are from the CLP Church, but we have two students from each of the other 3 Churches that work in alliance with RLM, plus two students from another independent church.
In February 2007, with the financial support of Seymour Heights Christian Church, we helped plant a new congregation at Carraozinho (East side of Sao Paulo City). This congregation, working in alliance with RLM, is doing very well. Brother Gilberto is responsible for this church and he and his wife Patricia are a very devoted couple.
In 2004, with the financial help of Seymour Heights Christian Church we help re-plant a church in Parnamirim, Rio Grande do Norte, in the northeastern part of Brazil. In the past year this congregation has planted a daughter congregation at the south side of Parnamirim. To see this church multiply on its own is a great blessing. Brother Uriel is responsible for this work with the help of Brother Almeida; these two are retired from the Air Force.
The other churches that work in alliance with us are all growing. They're located in different states and I couldn't visit them in the past year because of Monica's health. But we've kept in contact via phone and e-mails and they are doing very well. These 3 church locations are: Brasilia, Goias, and Rio de Janeiro.

PERSONAL HIGHLIGHTS OF THE PAST YEAR:
I (Jeff) believe that our biggest personal highlight was to see God's hands at work, through Monica's health problems. She suffered for so long with head aches, and to see the Lord bring the right Doctor at the right moment to have Monica headache-free is a miracle for us. We felt so loved through all the prayers and uplifting words from the entire world. The way God's people came up with the finances to pay for all the medical expenses was tremendous. When Monica went for the surgery, the doctor said she had a 50% chance of surviving, that she could become blind and deaf on her right side and have no feeling in her face for the rest of her life. The Doctors said if she did survive, the right side of her body (arm and leg) would probably not work properly anymore. To see her alive, back to 80% of her activities, having only trouble seeing with her right eye, is a blessing for us! She still gets confuses when she's in a very noisy, crowded place and she gets tired very easily. But we're thankful for her life!
Another personal highlight is seeing Roger and Isaac grow, not only physically but spiritually. They were very mature spiritually through all we've been through with Monica's health; their faith was very strong! Roger is a 10th grader this year and Isaac 6th. Both play basketball for the Campo Limpo Paulista City and they both play the drums at church.
During the past year I (Jeff) had the opportunity to study for an MBA with a specialization in leadership. Because of Monica's health I still have one more class to take, that's offered in April 2009.

HOW SUCCESSFUL HAS YOUR MINISTRY BEEN OVER THE PAST YEAR? WHAT MARKERS ARE YOU USING TO MEASURE YOUR EFFECTIVENESS?
God has been very gracious to us! We see many ways how we might be more effective in our ministry and we're striving toward this growth as we learn more each day with our Lord. But at the same time, we see the hand of the Lord working trough us as we see people coming to the Lord, and others being restored in their faith.
Although for us, our first ministry is our family, and we've been blessed with very good children who are committed to the Lord. We could say that the Lord has done a marvelous work through our lives.
Every thing we plan in ministry is based on prayer and fasting. So, the markers we use to measure our effectiveness is to see God's approval. First, He has given us peace, courage, strength, and a spirit that does not give up to do His work. We're seeing lives being saved and restored. What we feel we've been doing what the Lord has called us to do, and this work is yielding fruit beyond what we expected.

WHAT ARE YOUR CURRENT FURLOUGH PLANS?
We intend to visit our supporting churches in January 2009. Monica was approved for a 5-year visa, since her Green Card expired, so now we can travel without problems. We're scheduled to leave Brazil January 5th, and return February 5th, 2009. Please inform us the best date for us to visit!

WHAT IS YOUR CURRENT FINANCIAL SITUATION? PLEASE ATTACH YOUR CURRENT BUDGET ALONG WITH ANNUAL EXPENSES AS WELL AS THE AMOUNTS BEING RECEIVED FROM OTHER SOURCES. PLEASE INCLUDE INFORMATION ON YOUR RETIREMENT PLANNING.
With the devaluation of the US Dollar, plus inflation in Brazil, in order to maintain ministry and living expenses, we need a 28.465% increase in our regular support. Attached to this report is our 2009 budget and financial audit report. Our budget and financial report has information about our retirement plan; our retirement plan is with Waddell & Reed Financial Services.

HAVE YOU EXPERIENCED ANY HEALTH CONCERNS ABOUT WHICH WE NEED TO BE MADE AWARE?
We ask you to continue to pray for Monica's total health recovery.

WHAT ARE YOUR GOALS AND VISION FOR THE NEXT YEAR?
Give continuation to what we are doing right now:
*Promoting evangelism and discipleship and helping the newly planted churches to grow.
*We plan to plant a new church in Jundiai in 2009. Jundiai has close to 1/2 million population and is about 12.5 miles from Campo Limpo Paulista and about 32 miles from Sao Paulo City. At the present moment we have 21 members at CLP Church that are from Jundiai and are dreaming with us about this church plant. Because of the location and high costs in Jundiai, we will need to raise 10,000 US Dollars to start this new congregation, plus a 3-year support of 1,000 US Dollars per month. The start-up cost will cover chairs, sound equipment and a 3-month rent deposit which we'll need to rent a location.
*Visit our supporting churches in the USA in January 2009.
*Visit the work in Mozambique in February 20 through March 2, 2009 with John Leech from Seymour Heights Christian Church. This time I'd like to take Roger with us.

WHAT ARE YOUR CURRENT PRAYER NEEDS, FAMILY NEEDS, AND FINANCIAL NEEDS WITH WHICH WE COULD ASSIST? WHAT NEEDS SHOULD WE CONSIDER AS WE DEVELOP OUR ANNUAL MISSIONS BUDGET?
*Please pray for the Lord to keep our family safe; Brazil is not the safest place in the world to live.
*That the Lord will give us good health and finish His healing as Monica recuperates from the removal of the brain tumor.
*That He will free us from all things that do not come from Him that may take us off course.
*Pray with us as we plan for Roger to go to college in a couple of years. He wants to come back to the USA for his senior year at High School and for College.
*Pray that the Lord will use us for His honor and glory, in spite of us!
*Pray that we will be able to raise the support needed to keep up with our ministry and living expenses.
*Pray for the Lord to send the resources needed to plant the Jundiai Church.

RLM 2008 FINANCIAL AUDIT REPORT:
FROM JANUARY 1ST TO AUGUST 31st

BALANCE TRANSFER FROM THE 2007 DESIGNATED GIFTS:
Car Payment $ 641.26
Furlough $ 2,489.75
TOTAL $ 3,131.01

Ministry Balance $ 7,086.49

Balance December 31, 2007(A) $ 10,217.50

INCOME (From Jan 1st to Aug 31st)
Regular Supporters $ 33,750.00
One time Gift $ 5,548.62
Total (B) $ 39,298.62

DESIGNETED SUPPORT:
(1) Mozambique $ 3,400.00
(2) 2009 Furlough $ 800.00
(3) New Church Plant $ 2,400.00
(4) Brazilian 2008 Convention $ 700.00
(5) Personal Gifts $ 740.00
(6) Car Payments $ 3,186.90
(7) Christmas in July (BCC) $ 218.00
(8) FCC-JC Mission Trip to Brazil $ 800.00
(9) BCC Mission Trip to Brazil $ 5,300.00
Total Other Gifts (C) $ 17,544.90

Total (B+C) $ 56,843.52

Total (B+C) + 2007 Balance (A) $ 67,061.02

Contributions to RLM designated for:
(1) The work in Mozambique
(2) Help pay for the 2008 Furlough expenses
(3) New Church Planting
(4) Help pay for the 2008 Christian/Church of Christ Convention
(5) Help Buy School Materials & Personal Gifts
(6) Help make the car payments
(7) Gift from Bethany Christian Church
(8) Gift to pay the travel expenses of Ron and Phil Blackmore from Johnson City First Christian Church
(9) Gift to pay travel expenses of Bethany Christian Church Team

EXPENSES:
Salary $ -8000.00
(House expenses; Food; Clothes; etc.)
Help Pay for the Boys School $ -3.200.00
Home Allowance $ -3,513.97
(Home and Office - Rent, Security, Taxes)
Electricity (Home and Office) $ -494.97
Water (Home and Office) $ -181.40
Gas (Home) $ -40.90
Phone (Office, Home and Cell) $ -1,825.35
Gasoline and Toll $ -2,603.55
Car Insurance $ -596.94
Car Maintenance $ -1,079.33
Life Insurance $ -1,864.64
Retirement Plan $ -960.00
Medical Insurance/Medicine $ -4,240.49
Post Office $ -13.38
Publicity (News Letter and Others) $ -203.70
Internet Access $ -412.99
Office Supplies $ -618.17
Evangelism $ -1,477.52
Discipleship $ -2,195.76
New Church Plant $ -2,286.68
Bible College $ -701.95
Ministry/Missions $ -7,078.92
Car Payments $ -4,553.85
Bank Fees and Government Taxes $ -463,73
Mozambique $ -3,400.00
Personal Gifts $ -740.00
2008 Brazilian Convention $ -300.00
2008 Car taxes $ -1,985.17
USA Office Supplies $ -177.64
Christmas in July $ -218.00
FCC-JC Team $ -545.62
BCC Team $ -5,291.25
Renew Brazilian Passport (Jeff & Monica) $ -209.33
Renew USA Passport (Jeff) $ -116.08
Monica USA Visa $ -231.67

Total Expenses $-62,317.92

BALANCE AUGUST 31, 2008 $ 4,743.60

BALANCE TRANSFER FROM THE DESIGNATED GIFTS:
Furlough 2009 $ 3,289.75
TOTAL $ 3,289.75

Deducting the Balance from the Transfer Balance "Designated Gifts" - RLM's

Balance in 08/31/2008 is $1,453.85

GIFTS THAT ARE GIVEN TO RLM:
65% COMES FROM CHRISTIAN CHURCHES
35% COMES FROM INDIVIDUALS (Family and Friends)

(If needed we have a spreadsheet with all expenses itemized)

MONICA’S SURGERY

GIFTS RECEIVED $55,390.16
AMOUNT USE $45,350.59
BALANCE $10,039.57


RIVER OF LIFE MINISTRIES 2009 BUDGET:

Salary $1,000.00 (House expenses; Food; Clothes; etc.)
Help Pay for the Boys School $ 450.00 (The monthly fee is $390.00)
Rent, Security, Taxes, Electricity, Water, Gas $ 850.00 (Home and Office)
Phone (Office, Home and Cell) $ 225.00
Medical Insurance/Medicine $ 480.00
Life Insurance $ 250.00
Retirement Plan $ 200.00
Gasoline and Toll $ 315.00
Car Maintenance $ 80.00
Car Insurance $ 105.00
Car Payment $ 505.00
Car Taxes $ 165.00
Office Expenses $ 90.00
Publicity (Newsletter and others) $ 100.00
Internet Access $ 60.00
Evangelism $ 500.00
Discipleship $ 300.00
Church Planting $ 300.00
Bible College $ 500.00
Benevolence $ 20.00
Bank Fees and Government Taxes $ 50.00
Ministry/Missions $ 900.00
Total $7,445.00

OUR MONTHLY GOAL FOR THE MINISTRY IN BRAZIL AND LIVING FOR 2009 IS $7,445.00 PER MONTH

If the supporters that has supported us in 2008 continue with their regular support in 2009. Between churches and individuals that support the ministry in Brazil, we have committed: $ 5,795.83

If the supporters that has supported the work in Mozambique in 2008 continue with their support in 2009. At present churches and individuals have committed: $400.00

Brazil Ministry $ 7,445.00
Mozambique $ 400.00
TOTAL BUDGET FOR 2009 $ 7,845.00

FURTHERMORE, FOR US TO REACH OUR GOAL FOR 2009, WE NEED AN EXTRA $1,649.17 PER MONTH FOR THE MINISTRY IN BRAZIL.

We believe with all of our heart that God will move peoples' hearts as He has moved yours, and we will reach this goal for His honor and glory. We have many goals for River of Life Ministries for 2009 – We want to continue reaching many souls for the Lord in 2009, please continue supporting us!

EXTRA BUDGET CHURCH PLANT:
Our goal is to continue to Plant New Churches. We have a big challenge for 2009; we're planning a New Church Plant in Jundiai. Jundiai is located about 12.5 miles from CLP (Campo Limpo Paulista) and has a ½ million population. At the present time, 21 members of the CLP Church live in Jundiai, and are dreaming about this church plant.
The cost of living in Jundiai is much higher then in CLP. To plant this church we'll need to raise $10,000 US to start this new congregation, and a 3-year commitment of support of $1,000 US per month. We are looking for 10 churches and/or individuals that can give $1,000 US, to start this new church plant and 10 churches and/or individuals that can give $100.00 US per month for 3 years.
We need people to step out in faith with us and make this possible for God's honor and glory!

Thank you very much for supporting us! Your prayers and financial support are vital for our ministry. May the Lord bless you! God is good all the time and all the time God is good!
In His Love and Service,

Jeff, Monica, Roger, and Isaac Fife
Missionaries/River of Life Ministries

JULY 2008 CAMPO LIMPO PAULISTA – SÃO PAULO – BRAZIL

8 We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; 9 persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. 10 We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body. (2 Corinthians 4.8-10NVI).

DEAR PRAYER PARTNERS AND SUPPORTERS,

Greetings in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ from your co-workers to the Portuguese-Speaking world!

We're going to give you some of the highlights of the ministry God has done through us during the first 6 months of this year! Even though we were busy taking care of Monica, we didn't stop working for our Lord and His Kingdom!

HERE ARE SOME REASONS FOR PRAISING OUR LORD:

Monica’s Health: As most of you know, Monica suffered with terrible headaches for over two years, and was diagnosed with a brain tumor on February 28, 2008. The brain tumor was removed April 1st, and she's still recuperating from the surgery. Her vision isn't perfect yet, and her brain still leaks some fluid into her right ear. The doctors believe everything will come back together in a few months. In August, Monica's supposed to go through a new CAT Scan; if the brain leakage doesn't stop by then, she may need to go through a new surgery. We received a total of $55,095,16 (US Dollar) in gifts to help pay for Monica's surgery and treatment (Praise the Lord!). As of now, we've spent $30,090.57 (US Dollar); we still have some bills to come, plus the continuation of her treatment. We serve a mighty God! We would like to thank each and everyone of you who has prayed for Monica and for us during this difficult time, and thank each and everyone who was able to send a gift for this purpose. May the Lord bless you richly in Christ Jesus; please continue to pray for Monica's total recovery!

12 Days of Purpose: From January 2nd through the 13th at the Church in CLP (Campo Limpo Paulista) we had services every day; each of the 12 days represented one month of the year. We were giving the Lord the "first fruits" the first days of the year, asking Him to guide and bless each of the 12 months of the year. I (Jeff) preached, all 12 days!

Team From Goias (Jan 17-28): We received a visit from a team of 5 youth leaders from 5 different Christian Churches/Churches of Christ from the state of Goais. The purpose of their visit was to promote evangelism. During their visit, they trained evangelistic teams at the RLM churches in CLP, Carraozinho & Pirituba, and we had opportunity to promote street evangelism at all three locations.

CLP Church Anniversary (Jan 26): We celebrated our third year since we had our first service at this location in CLP. This church was planted with the support of First Christian Church in Johnson City, TN. We started with 11 members in January 2005 - now we have over 100! God is good! We're working directly with the local church on a daily basis.

New Addition (Feb 4-5, 16-17): We about finished with all the construction at CLP Church building. We were going to build a wall with the names on the bricks of the people that helped financially with this construction. Since the building does not belong to the church yet, we decided to make a plate with the names and attach to the wall.

Women’s Tea (Feb 16): Every couple of months, on Saturday afternoon, the ladies at CLP church promote a women's outreach, offering tea in the afternoon. Monica helps organize, and gives a meditation.

Carraozinho Church Anniversary (Feb 23): This church plant celebrated its first anniversary. This church it is being planted with the support of Seymour Heights Christian Church, Seymour, TN. It began with 18 members, and now has over 40. Brother Gilberto and his wife Patricia are responsible for this new church work.

Visit from our Forwarding Agent: My (Jeff) sister Elena, who is our forwarding agent visit us in March. It was a blessing to have her over, as we were preparing for Monica’s surgery.

Resurrection Celebration (Mar 23): Every year for the last 3 years, we gather all RLM churches into one location to celebrate Christ's resurrection. We met this year at the Fire Brigade rest area in Franco da Rocha, Sao Paulo. At this opportunity all churches blessed us with special music, we had communion and a great Brazilian Steak lunch.

7 Baptized (Mar 23): During the Resurrection Celebration, we baptized 4 from the Carraozinho Church, 2 from the Pirituba Church, and 1 from CLP Church.

Youth Outreach (Mar 29): All RLM churches got together at Pirituba Church for this outreach; it was a blessing!

Visit from Mozambique (Apr 3 to 8): We were privileged to have a visit from Kleber and Juracema. They were accompanied by 4 Mozambicans who came to visit the churches in Brazil. They stayed in Brazil for about 6 months, visiting the churches in the center, west and north, and on their way back to Mozambique they visited the RLM churches in Sao Paulo.

Roger’s Birthday (Apr 30): Roger celebrated his 15 birthday and he asked to spend the day at a summing pool. Roger plays basketball for the city team, and he sings and plays drums for the worship team at CLP Church.

Visit from FCC, Johnson City, TN (May 7 to 13): We received a visit from Brothers Ron and Phil Blackmore; Ron is an elder at FCC, and is a Medical Dr. He & his father, Brother Phil, came accompanying my parents (Tom and Libby); the purpose of their trip was to help my parents travel, and to see how we were doing (especially to see if Monica was getting all the medical assistance she needed.) Brother Ron preached at our Friday and Sunday services at CLP. We felt much loved by Christ through these brothers' visit. Thanks, FCC, for sending them to us!

This is what Brother Ron Blackmore had to say about his visit to Brazil: “Jeff, Thank you for taking such good care of us during our visit surrounding the week of May 11th (mother's day). We were very happy to travel with your parents to see you and work with the church. I'm not sure if we helped them arrive safely, or if they helped us arrive at the proper destination...either way, we finally arrived! The time we were able to spend with Monica and the boys was wonderful. Thank you for allowing me to bring the message of God from the book of Nehemiah at the Friday and Sunday services. I was humbled and excited, as my training is in medicine and not preaching. My father and I very much enjoyed the spirit of the church and the strong desire for learning the Word observed in the services and the Saturday Bible training. We had many highlights which included knowing your family, watching the elders lead, seeing the children learn and sing, being a part of the youth group activity, and of course playing soccer on Sunday morning (the Lord's soccer)- we were sore for a week! I believe most of all we enjoyed spending time with Christ's most precious bride, whether it is in Tennessee or Brazil. May God continue to grow, strengthen, and purify his Church.”

Visit from my Parents (May 6 through June 10): During the time they were with us in Sao Paulo, dad taught Hermeneutics at our Bible College at CLP Church. He also preached two Sundays. They also visited my brother Tchico and his family in Goiania for a couple of weeks, and they spoke at the church at north Goiania.

Bible College: We've been praying for a long time, asking for the opportunity to start our Bible College, and finally the time came to start. The classes are held two Saturdays per month from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.. The first class, Hermeneutics, was taught by my father May 10 and 17. We started with 20 students from 4 different churches. In June I (Jeff) taught Eschatology; July is a vacation month and in August the classes will resume.

Men’s Breakfast (May 18): At CLP Church, my father spoke to the men this time. This ministry believes in investing in our men, and we're blessed with a church full of good working men.

Visit from Portugal (May 29 through June 2): My brother Robert Fife, missionary in Portugal, came to Brazil to take care of some personal business and also to attend a conference; we had the privilege of having him with us for a few days. During the time he was with us, he spoke at CLP church on Friday and Sunday and at Sao Bernardo do Campo Church on Saturday.

Youth Outreach (May 31): All RLM churches gathered at Sao Bernardo do Campo Church - we had lots of special music!

Surprise (June 1): My brother Fife MacDuff that works for the USA Government in the Middle East, and my brother Tchico who lives in Goiania, were in Sao Paulo and came to our service at CLP. Since Robert was visiting from Portugal we had the four brothers in the same location, this was a great surprise!

Thanksgiving Service (May 7): At CLP Church we had our celebration of thanks-giving for Monica's life. The church was packed, there were people from many churches and cities; it's amazing how the Lord has used Monica's illness to reach and touch so many people in the world. He is a Mighty God! It was a very emotional service! Monica sat at the piano, even though she could not see straight, and told her testimony. She played the piano and sang and read the scriptures God had put in her heart since February 28, when we discovered she had the tumor, up until that day. It was beautiful and amazing! Praise the Lord!

Isaac’s Birthday (June 16): Isaac celebrated his 11 birthday. Isaac was born for sports and he is an excellent drummer!

Visit from Bethany CC, Bumpass, VA, (June 20 to 30): A team of 8, led by youth minister Scott Brand, blessed us with their visit. During the time they were with us they finished painting outside, and also painted the inside of the CLP Church. They worked very hard! They also blessed the churches at Carraozinho, Pirituba and CLP with their messages. Scott attended JBC with me, so this was a very special visit. Two of his daughters, Sarah and Hannah, were on the team. Hannah went to school with Roger for 3 1/2 years. He also brought two sponsors, Brother Mike Yancey, who is an elder at BCC, and his daughter Sarah Yancey. Other students on the trip were Dakota Bryant, Tracy Wilkerson and Eric Martin.

To see more pictures of Bethany Christian Church Visit to Brazil acess the link below: http://photos.walmart.com/shareethumbnailshare/AlbumID=29095346/p=31991215626523395/l=11566683/g=17845589/albumcount=2/action=2293/pns/share/p=31991215626523395/l=11566683/g=17845589/cobrandOid=1011/otsc=SYE/otsi=SALB

This is what Scott Brand had to say about his visit to Brazil: “In 2003, God clearly called our youth group to go and serve with River of Life Ministry in Sao Paulo, Brasil. As clear as the call was, it still took years for the trip to come to fruition. However, I am happy to report that this past June (2008), we finally made the journey. I cannot explain, nor is it necessary to do so, why it took five years for the trip to happen, but I am convinced that all was in God’s perfect timing. And though I am saddened because some who initially wanted to serve couldn’t make this trip, I am elated for those who did get to go this time. It was pure joy for me as their youth minister to watch students “come alive” in their Faith and put into action lessons learned. My only wish was that their loved ones could have also witnessed them glowing and growing through service and that they could have seen Christ in action through them.
Many times, it seems, mission trip reports must include facts and figures to somehow attempt to justify the costs (both financially and otherwise). However, that is not my desire. Suffice it to say that each student who attended would eagerly return on a future trip. As alleged leader and trip coordinator, I had two objectives for our group which, in my opinion, both were accomplished. (My goals for our trip were; 1. That we would be an encouragement to the Church in Brasil and 2. That we would grow in our love for cultures beyond our own.) Our students got to share a message with several congregations within the River of Life family. The main point of their message was growing the Fruit of The Sprit. As I was reflecting on our trip during the plane ride home, I thought about fruit and that each fruit tree started from only a tiny seed. From my vantage point, I can assure you that during our trip seeds were planted on both sides of the equator. When those seeds mature and blossom into delicious fruit, only God knows for sure. However, back in Virginia, I have already seen new buds that were not there a month ago. God is Good…All the Time. Thank you Fife’s (and Brasil) for allowing us to come. We are blessed!” Bethany Youth Group (Scott Brand)

Women’s Tea (June 28): This was the first tea since Monica had her surgery, and she was able to speak; everyone was very happy!

Furlough 2008: We had planned to visit our supporting churches, family and friends during the month of July. But since Monica's green card has expired and for her to renew her green card she needs to move back to the USA, we decided to ask for a visa for her to come to the USA. Roger, Isaac and I have dual citizenship. The US Consulate in Sao Paulo scheduled an interview for Monica for September 3; that of course was too late, so we asked for an urgent interview and got no response. So, we asked for a Congressman and a Senator to plead for us, and they did - but the Consulate did not think that visiting our supporting churches and attending the World Convention was important enough for an urgent interview. After the interview in September, we'll decide a new date for a future furlough.

Other Work: I (Jeff) meet every first Saturday of the month with leaders from all the RLM churches in Sao Paulo. Monica meets with the children's ministry leaders from the RLM churches during our leaders' meeting. These meetings are to better equip them and help them in their needs. I meet with the small group leaders at CLP Church every two months; we now have 7 groups, averaging 70 people, participating each week.

HERE ARE SOME SPECIFIC PRAYER REQUESTS & UPCOMING EVENTS:

Vacation: We're planning to take a 10-day vacation during the month of July - just some time to refresh and have some family quality time! Although we take one day per week for our family, after all we've gone through this year, we need some time off!

Mans Breakfast (Jul 27): At CLP Church!

Bible College (Aug 9 and 26): Classes will resume in August!

Woman’s Tea (Aug 23): At CLP Church!

Youth Outreach (Aug 30): At Carraozinho Church!

The Dollar Value: The exchange rate has gone even lower in the last few months - it's now R$1.60 per dollar. The devaluation of the dollar, along with rising prices, makes it hard for us to keep the work going! Please pray for the dollar value to go up, or for God to send us more support! In August, we'll send out our Financial Audit Report with our 2009 Budget!

More Prayer Requests: Pray that God will give us the opportunity to reach people for HIS Kingdom! Pray that the Lord will give us good health! Pray that the Lord will provide all the funds needed. Please pray that the Lord will keep giving us wisdom and discernment, so we can accomplish what He has called us to do. To Him be all honor and glory!

Your prayers and financial support are vital for our lives and ministry! Thanks for your prayers and support!

God is good all the time and all the time God is Good!
In HIS Love and Service,

Jeff, Monica, Roger, and Isaac Fife