Dear Friends and Supporters,
While rummaging in some old files and articles,
I discovered some wonderful history about HTI, the orphanage in Moreira, Brazil. I hope you also will enjoy learning more about this wonderful home and how God has so beautifully taken care of His precious children time after time.
----------------------------
"The main objective of Holy Trinity Institute is to shelter, sustain, and assist the development of children, adolescents, adults and the elderly."
In 1932, the Reverend Urb Gedrat arrived in Brazil from Germany as a missionary to work in a village called Moreira, near the municipality of Three Crowns.
At that time, there was no intent to start a job of assistance to children and the elderly. Yet, in 1932, before the end of his first year, and barely knowing the language, pastor Gedrat brought in a girl who wanted to be educated and instructed in religion. The girl lived in his own home to attend parochial school. At the end of the year, she was no longer the only one.
In 1933, five more brothers were brought into the home whose mother had died and the father was unable to take care of them. They began to reside permanently in the house of the pastor.
The piece of news of the shepherd who was sheltering poor and orphan children ran quickly through the community. Many children came. That first girl grew and began to help caring for the younger children. So, the children's number was increasing day by day.
In 1938 the situation became frightening as more and more children needed to be sheltered, but the physical space had become too small.
In 1945, after a few years and many questions, a residence for the children was built. This wooden house, however, was uncomfortable and was far away from the pastoral house, church and school.
This forced the Institute to build a second home, more comfortable and closer to the other buildings. They also built a residence for the Minister, whose family went to reside with the children.
In 1946, necessary legalization arose, and the Foundation of Evangelical Lutheran Association for charity - AELB began to maintain the activities of Holy Trinity Institute."
---------------------------------
I so enjoyed seeing these photos and reading the history. And here we are. 2014. Some 82 years later. Yes, the facilities and grounds are constantly needing repair and upkeep. But I marvel to think of all of the children, adolescents, adults, and seniors who have been loved and cared for over the years, and who have come to know their Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. I am so happy that I have come to learn more about this special place.
And as always, we at Brazil Mission Society are so thankful for you - your prayers - your support - and your partnership as together, we continue to help this marvelous home in Moreira, Brazil.
