SARA: Retreat Ministry for Pastors in Brazil July 2025
Strengthening Pastors Across Brazil Through Mentorship
In August of last year, the SARA Institute made an intentional shift in how it communicates its mission. The word “association,” which felt too much like a social club, was replaced with “SARA Fraternity,” a term that better reflects the ministry’s deep commitment to journeying alongside pastors in friendship and relationship.
Coming out of the pandemic years, we’ve seen our Regional Hubs grow stronger, and many have resumed their annual retreats. Each mentoring group now holds two retreats a year. Already, in just the first half of this year, SARA has led 10 mentoring retreats. In addition, the Lutheran Church has requested special retreats specifically for pastors serving in their synods. As a result, we’re seeing growing interest from both male and female pastors who want to join our Monthly Mentoring Groups.
At the heart of the SARA Institute is a vision to serve pastors across Brazil through mentoring. This vision centers on cultivating a new way of thinking about pastoral ministry—one that emphasizes not working for God, but working with God. It is a vision rooted in spiritual vitality, where devotion comes before ministry. Many pastors have testified that their mentoring relationships have deeply impacted their personal lives, families, and ministries.
We are so grateful for your ongoing support—your prayers and gifts have made all of this possible. Your partnership is truly making a difference.
Testimonies from the Field
From Salvador, Bahia (Northeastern Brazil):
“I’m Rev. José Edson Ayrosa, a Minister of the Word and Sacraments in the Independent Presbyterian Church of Brazil (IPIB), currently serving in Salvador.
One truth I’ve learned over the years: no one grows alone. My mentor, Rev. Mário de Gois, has been a steady and transformative presence in my life. His honest counsel, thought-provoking questions, and faithful example have helped shape the way I think, lead, and live.
Through his listening ear, I’ve learned to discern wisely, face dilemmas with courage, and value the process as much as the results. In times of uncertainty, his voice has brought clarity; in times of discouragement, his words have given me strength.
I’m so grateful. Mentoring hasn’t just helped me grow—it has taught me how to live with deeper meaning. To God be all the glory!”
From São José do Rio Preto, São Paulo:
“Grace and peace to my colleagues. I’m Pastor Carlos Alberto dos Santos, born and raised in São José do Rio Preto.
My journey with the SARA Fraternity began in 2013 during one of the darkest moments of my ministry. I was emotionally exhausted and enduring a personal and pastoral crisis. I hit a breaking point during a church leadership meeting, where I stood up and said, ‘I don’t want to be here anymore.’ I didn’t want to visit anyone, take phone calls, or respond to messages.
Thankfully, SARA stepped in. My mentor listened, prayed with me, and recommended the book Leading on Empty by Wayne Cordeiro. He also invited me to a pastor’s retreat—a space where I received care, healing, and fellowship with others in ministry.
That retreat marked a turning point. I continued to receive mentoring and support from SARA, and it gave me the strength to walk with my wife through her eight-month struggle with panic disorder—something we overcame by God’s grace and the help of mental health professionals. The SARA Fraternity has been a lifeline.”
Throughout all these years, the SARA Institute has reached over five hundred pastors. Because of this work, hundreds of pastors have rekindled their passion for pastoral ministry, and many are seeing their churches grow again.
In Christ,
J.C. Pezini and Odete
THE OPPORTUNITY
The Outreach Foundation is seeking gifts to support the SARA: Retreat Ministry for Pastors in Brazil. This ministry helps restore and support pastors who are weary from a life of pastoral ministry. All gifts of any size are welcomed to help offer more regional groups and retreats. You may make a gift by sending a check to the address below or you may make an online gift via the button below.