Ministry Update: Ruama (Brazil)

Ruama has had a presence in Favela do Murão in São Paulo, Brazil, for over 40 years. It provides daily nutritious meals to children in its programs and provides families with additional healthy meals at home. In its before- and after-school programs, it provides physical education and sports to help with the children’s physical health. Children receive training in computer and other digital skills, in addition to tutoring in math and reading. In its weekly Bible studies, the kids are introduced to Bible stories, memorize verses, and learn key Biblical concepts. In its counseling classes, discussions address issues such as drug use, sexual abuse and exploitation, and community peacemaking.

A few years ago, the staff at Ruama realized that some of the children didn’t know their birth dates, and many of them had never had a birthday party. They decided to host a quarterly party to celebrate those who had birthdays in those months, both among the children and the Ruama staff.

One staff member notes, “It’s a simple party but full of joy, games, costumes, music, cake, and all the other goodies that every child loves. For us, a birthday is a celebration of life, which we should celebrate and be thankful.” Just as with birthdays at Reformed Heart Orphans Center in Kenya , these parties are seemingly small but significant ways to communicate to these children that they are special and loved by the Lord and His people.