Ministry Update: Israel Shalom (Brazil)

Israel Shalom is making a profound impact in the Brasilândia community of São Paulo, Brazil, by using music, dance, and Christian ethics classes to develop at-risk children and adolescents. Over the past twenty years, it has reached over 2,000 young people, giving them a new outlook on life.

Led by Pastor Israel Lemos, Israel Shalom has a proven track record of rescuing children from lives of crime and addiction and setting them on a new path towards a vibrant relationship with Jesus Christ. Through its holistic approach, it not only shares the good news but also develops the students’ sense of responsibility, social skills, and hope for the future.

The ministry’s key goal is to use musical education with a Christian focus to share the gospel, which can redirect the lives of these at-risk youth. It uses different elements of culture, particularly music, to gain the students’ attention and point them towards the abundant life that only the gospel can provide.

Israel Shalom successfully completed the purchase of its headquarters building this year, which is now legally owned by the association. This property will serve as a permanent base for its activities, allowing for better organization and expansion of its programs.

The ministry has seen a notable increase in participation, with over 50 new individuals joining its activities. This includes an average of 11 participants in its weekly gospel teaching sessions and a ballet group that has grown to include 20 girls.