Populated by German and Italian immigrants in the 1800s, southern Brazil retains a strong European influence, which, combined with the proud gaúcho heritage of traditional ranchers and cattle herders, has produced a culture distinct from the rest of Brazil. The religions of the region create unique challenges for evangelism; cultural Catholics or Lutherans often lack a true understanding of the gospel, non-religious persons adamantly promote a secular worldview, and spiritists practicing Afro-Brazilian religions are tempted to place Jesus as another idol on their shelf.

Part of the team has focused its efforts on the Hunsrik people group, an under-reached population of five million, of whom only 1.5 percent are evangelical. Living primarily in mountain towns of southern Brazil and speaking an unwritten German dialect, many Hunsriks have a strong sense of independence and dedication to traditional religion that creates resistance to the gospel.  

The team launched two Bible studies in short succession: one in Ivoti in 2010 and, a few months later, another in neighboring Dois Irmãos. As new members trusted Christ and began learning God’s Word, both groups expanded, and the Ivoti study grew into a church plant in 2011. The gospel is being preached, and people are hearing the truth in Brazil.  

Gifts to the Global Gospel Fund help empower ABWE missionaries across the globe, including this team in Brazil, to minister to unreached and overlooked people groups. The fund does this by providing workers with vital resources, training, and logistical support to empower them to focus on their primary task: making disciples among all the nations.