I was born in Brazil and was raised on a remote farm in a Roman Catholic home. I rode horses, swam in rivers and was a “nurse” to our many farm helpers. At 11, I was sent to boarding school and decided there I didn’t want any part of religion.

But God had different plans.....

At 20 years old, I was saved while attending First Baptist Church of Joao Pessoa, Brazil. Life took many turns from that point on — some really good (had two daughters), and others really painful.

Pain was something I became familiar with. But God in His Mercy used it all to reveal Himself to me and bring me to my knees and to use me—brokenness and all—for His Glory!

Several years later, I moved with my two teenage daughters to Florida, USA in May 2000. I met my husband Darryl, and his two children, Adelia and Dominic in 2001. We married two years later and joined our blended families as best we could. Although Darryl wasn’t a believer at the time, I continued to attend church.

In January 2006, my world was permanently changed with the death of my oldest daughter Pryscilla. She was 21 years old and died in a car accident in Brazil. But God so mercifully carried me every step of the way through that agonizing and time and reminded me of His abundant grace. Praise God for my joy in knowing Pryscilla was saved before she died! I was comforted even though this was the hardest thing in my life.

Yet, God has bestowed on me many blessings through Pryscilla’s death. My youngest daughter Vanessa was saved. My mother was saved a few months before her own death. My husband Darryl came to Christ shortly afterwards. Pryscilla’s testimony is still speaking!

My greatest joy is to help others to come to know Christ, and to help them grow in Christ. Darryl and I have hosted a Bible study in our home since August 2006.

Professionally, I’ve been a realtor since 2003. I love to help people with their real estate needs.

God has blessed us with three wonderful grandchildren: Steven (7), Luiza (6) and Nicolas (1), who live in Virginia with my daughter Vanessa and her husband Jefferson. Time spent with them is precious — we are close, and visit as often as possible, but it’s hard to be so far away. My prayer for them is 3 John 4, “I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.”

It is a joy to be a part of Gospel City Church. I’m excited to serve this church in any capacity God presents to me.