Conny Hebeisen

Globe Europe Missionary to
Brazil

Some years ago I began asking general questions about my future. I had been serving in the church with teenagers, children and music for many years and I still enjoyed working as a dental assistant. Yet, I felt that something new was about to develop. But what could that be? I could not imagine serving on the mission field at that time. After some confirmations I risked to take a step towards Brazil. Several times I was able to serve street children in the centre of São Paulo. During those times I met the Iseli and Koehler families, who were serving the poor in a favela (southern district of São Paulo). I had the privilege of serving with them for a longer time period. Working with the children was a great pleasure for me – and my love grew towards the age of 0-7. I became aware that God wants to build his kingdom right here among these poor people. God wants to use these people. He wants to give them the hope, love and attention they need. These people have talents that can be invested in the kingdom of God and that are worth developing. My heart’s desire is to live among these people, to pass on God’s love, teach his word and to invest into them. I also wanted to have a good time of preparation, to lay foundations in my own life and strengthen them, to get to know God’s word better and to experience what is written in it. So I decided to attend a bible school. At the end of May 2006 I finished the bible school “Glaubenszentrum Bad Gandersheim” (Christ For The Nations). From there I returned to Switzerland to prepare my leave. I extended my circle of friends and had the possibility of training in my home church. In addition I attended some courses at the “Academy for World Missions”, which I highly recommend. In May 2007 I was able to leave for São Paulo to start my ministry among the poor. Meanwhile I am responsible for the 3-6 year old children. In the average around 20 children are coming every day. I am challenged in language and education. Since September 2007 I also teach people of different ages and it pleases me to enhance musical talents in the favela. I am excited to see this area of my ministry develop. Favela Jardim Noronha children on the quadra children in the favela