27Jul2023

Chris Wallis, Abundant Life Course, N. Argentina

27th July 2023

As I reflect on the past few months, I am reminded of Joseph’s special cloak, which some interpret as being of many colours while others emphasise its long sleeves. Regardless of the exact details, what made it special was the deep affection his father had for him. In the midst of my contemplation, I cannot help but give thanks to my heavenly Father for the extraordinary variety of experiences He continues to bless me with in His immense generosity. My prayer is that I may become more generous in giving back as much as I receive.

Bermejo team in Bogota

Allow me to share just a few of these vibrant experiences:

Teaching Lectio Divina in the diocese’s course for future indigenous pastors has taught me invaluable lessons on reading the Bible and deepening my prayer life.
Facilitating SEAN’s Abundant Life course in the Wichí language to two church groups in the Rivadavia area of Salta province has revealed the deep longing of the Wichí people to know and understand God’s Word.
Teaching interpretation and translation to approximately 30 Wichí students who are preparing to become interpreters in the judicial system has opened my eyes to the incredible richness and beauty of language.
Working closely with a dedicated team of six Wichí men and women from the Bible Society, who are embarking on the translation of the New Testament into the Bermejo dialect of the Wichí language, has truly amazed me. Their genuine care and support for one another is truly inspiring.

Interpreters Workshop

As I reflect on these colourful areas of ministry, I feel a calling to make this Bible translation project my primary focus in the months and years ahead. I humbly ask for your prayers and support for this very special team as we embark on this significant undertaking.

Thank you for joining me in prayer and for being part of this mission. Together, let us embrace the diversity of God’s work and seek to make a lasting impact in the lives of the Wichí people.

In gratitude and with heartfelt blessings,

Chris Wallis

27Jul2023

Pastor Esteban Alvarez, Antofagasta, Chile

27th July 2023

SAMS

Chile, News, PRAY

Greetings in the name of the Lord! over a decade ago, I served as a volunteer with SAMS Ireland in Craigavon. Today, I am honoured to serve as the Pastor of an Anglican church situated in the beautiful port and mining city of Antofagasta, Chile, near the Atacama desert. Alongside my pastoral role, I also hold the esteemed position of being the national coordinator of the Langham Preaching Ministry in Chile, an organisation founded by the renowned Reverend John Stott.

In addition to my current responsibilities, I have been appointed by my diocesan bishop, Rev. Samuel Morrison, to act as a crucial link between our diocese of Valparaiso and SAMS Ireland. Together with SAMS Ireland we are actively seeking service opportunities both in Chile and Ireland. As part of this endeavours, we are encouraging young Chileans to serve in the Church in Ireland through the Fusion Program. Likewise, we are working on compiling a list of service opportunities in Chile for our Irish brothers and sisters, including short and long-term missions, church planting projects, ministerial apprenticeships, continuing education for clergy and laity, and social work initiatives. We warmly invite the churches in Ireland to join us in these endeavours by coming, praying, or offering financial support.

Despite our progress towards self-sustainability, there are still areas where we require assistance to advance and initiate new projects.

In light of these developments, we humbly request your prayers. Please pray that God may open doors in both directions, facilitating meaningful service opportunities. Additionally, we ask for prayers for the commitment of believers in Chile, as we navigate the gradual return to in-person gatherings amid the challenges posed by inflation and the aftermath of the pandemic. Many churches are facing financial struggles related to salaries and contributions for ongoing projects.

Lastly, we seek your prayers for the transitional phase our diocese is undergoing. Starting from August, our diocesan bishop will focus exclusively on bishop’s work, which presents both blessings and challenges. We are grateful for your unwavering support and prayers, and we hold the SAMS Ireland family close to our hearts. It was genuinely a privilege and a blessing to connect with you at FNL last February.

May God bless you abundantly.

Yours in Christ,

Rev. Esteban Alvarez

27Jul2023

Ordination of Pastor Guillermo Diana

27th July 2023

SAMS

News, Paraguay, PRAY

We rejoice with St. Paul’s Church in Concepcion, Paraguay, as they recently celebrated a significant milestone. After nine years of fervent prayer, the church’s longing for a new Pastor was answered. On June 4th, Guillermo Diana was officially installed as their new Pastor.

Guillermo’s journey to ministry has been deeply intertwined with St. Paul’s Church. Although he grew up in the nearby community of San Juan, it was within the walls of St. Paul’s that he found his faith and spiritual home. From an early age, Guillermo has carried a burning passion for sharing the gospel. His heartfelt desire is to witness people coming to know Jesus Christ as their Saviour and to witness the church thriving both in numbers and in the depth of their faith and service.

Guillermo is married to Rosa, and they are blessed with six children and two grandchildren. As they embark on this new chapter of leadership, we ask for your prayers of thanksgiving for Guillermo and Rosa. May the Lord anoint, protect, equip, and encourage them in their ministry. Pray that they will be granted wisdom, assistance, hope, faith, and love as they lead God’s people.

Furthermore, we ask for prayers of intercession for the church as a whole. May the light of Christ shine ever brighter through their collective witness. Pray that the church will continue to grow in strength, unity, and the transformative power of the gospel.

Together, let us lift up our voices in prayer, expressing gratitude for the past and seeking God’s guidance and blessings for the future.

6Jul2023

Summer Daily Prayer for Mission 2023

6th July 2023

SAMS

News, PRAY

Introducing a Summer Daily Prayer Diary for the Church in South America!

Exciting news! We’re glad to unveil our new “Summer Daily Prayer for Mission” designed to help your prayer and strengthen your continuing commitment to mission in South America. Experience a summer journey of prayer, focusing on mission themes inspired by Paul’s own prayers while in prison.

Embark on this prayerful adventure and discover prayers of perseverance, unity, boldness, open doors, discipleship, empowerment, provision, healing, justice, and more. Each short daily theme is crafted to keep your prayers focused, impactful, and in line with the Anglican Church’s mission in South America.

Download the Summer Daily Prayer for Mission 2023 and join us in partnering with the church in South America through prayer. Let’s make a difference together!

15Mar2023

St. Andrew’s School in Asuncion, Paraguay celebrates 60 years

15th March 2023

SAMS

News

SAMS Ireland has been able to assist with the placement of volunteers from Ireland to schools in South America.

For many years there has been a particular close working relationship with St. Andrew’s School (Colegio San Andrés) in Asuncion, Paraguay. Many people have volunteered from several months to a year, some have even stayed for up to 2-3 years. This month of March celebrates 60 years since St. Andrew’s school was founded. A short video can be viewed below.