DBU students find hugs, attention cross language barriers in Brazil

DALLAS—A 21-member student group from Dallas Baptist University who participated in a weeklong mission trip to Atibaia, Brazil, learned language creates no barrier to being the hands and feet of Christ.

Justin Halferty, a graduate student at Dallas Baptist University, plays with children in Brazil. (PHOTO/Courtesy of Jon Dooley)

"The DBU students started learning Portuguese words but found that special attention and hugs are universal signs for showing love," said Jon Dooley, trip sponsor and camp-sport ministry director at DBU.

The missions team worked at a camp for children ages 5 to 12. The camp is connected to the Word of Life headquarters in Brazil, a retreat and training center for pastors and missionaries.

In addition to leading recreation, the students also led worship, performed skits and presented the gospel.

After fulfilling their assigned roles during organized activities, students also found time to play a game of soccer or paint fingernails, giving the children time and individualized attention.

"Each person played a vital role," said Justin Halferty, a graduate student at DBU. "It was neat to see the body of Christ work together and utilize our strengths to minister to others."

Trip sponsors marveled at the way the students gave so much of themselves to their mission.

"The students all jumped in and loved the kids with all the energy they had," Dooley said.

Tyler Walker, a student at Dallas Baptist University, befriends a boy from a children's camp in Brazil. (PHOTO/Courtesy of Jon Dooley)

"It was such an incredible sight to see the love of Christ being shared with kids all over the campground at the same time."

To prepare for the trip, students leading music learned three worship songs in Portuguese. But even with limited language skills, the students discovered God could use them.

"The language barrier caused us to make sure the Lord's love was displayed through our actions, not just our words," senior Lindsay Sanders said. "God allowed those kids to feel his love through our actions. This is what we had prayed for, and God was faithful to fulfill it."

As Edi Morris, a senior music major at DBU, led music throughout the week, she realized the reason she had been called to the trip was to use her musical gifts to glorify God.

"By being flexible and willing to serve, God provided our team with the opportunity to lead worship in many different settings—from a church service to singing songs on the streets," Morris said.

God's faithfulness proved to be the theme of the week for team members as they saw needs met and prayers answered. From having a team member who spoke fluent Portu-guese to receiving visas just days before leaving for the trip, the DBU team was encouraged by how details fell into place for a successful trip.

"I learned that God is exalted among the nations," Sanders explained. "God is God of all nations, and he is greater than we can imagine."