It's never too late to follow in God's footsteps.
Laura Napoli Goncalves is known affectionately by her fellow
church members as Grandma Laura.
At 75 years old, she learned about The Seventh-day
Adventist Church through an invitation from her granddaughters.
Grandma Laura was a firm believer in spiritistic practices, but as she came
to know the truth, through the study of God's Word and participation in church
services and events. her heart gradually filled with love for Jesus.
Even before descending into the baptismal waters, Laura participated actively
in evangelism, helping to greet visitors at prayer meetings and collecting food
for the needy, among many other activities.
She especially likes to read Ellen White's books.
The most important thing to Laura is to go to church
to be with her church family.
She always present for services, regardless of the cold weather,
rain or intense heat.
Laura especially loves the week of prayer.
All this love led her to baptism on December 13, 2015, at the age of 80.
Laura joined a group that was organized to take the Word of God and good news
of salvation in Jesus to community members.
She is a faithful Christian, missionary,
and giver, and her life demonstrates a contagious joy for being
part of the Adventist family.
Grandma Laura is a living testimony that the best place in the world
is at the feet of the Savior, and she looks forward to Jesus' return
when she can be with Him forever.
Grandma Laura is engaged in the mission and social projects of the church,
including the building of a new church to safely accommodate all the community
members.
The building currently rented by the church is too small
and doesn't have a separate room
for the youth and children.
They meet outside, leaving them subject to the dangers of traffic, heat,
and bad weather.
This quarter's 13th Sabbath Offering will establish churches in South America,
including one in Grandma Laura's town.
There will be so much joy when church members can worship together
in this new space, and the youth and children are sheltered indoors.
Please pray for this group and others throughout South America.
Thank you for giving to the 13th Sabbath Offering.