On January 6,2025,Pastor José Wellington Bezerra da Costa marked a remarkable milestone,celebrating 45 years as the president of the Ministry of Belém in São Paulo. The event, held during the First General Assembly of Workers of the State Convention, gathered assembly leaders from across Brazil, highlighting his influential role in the Brazilian evangelical community. At 90 years old, Bezerra da Costa is a pivotal figure, having previously lead the General Convention of the Assemblies of God of brazil (CGADB) for nearly three decades, where he significantly expanded the church’s reach and administrative strength. His legacy was honored by Pastor José Wellington Costa Junior, who emphasized the inspiration Bezerra da Costa has provided to generations of church workers. The assembly featured prayers, songs, and heartfelt tributes, reaffirming his status as a leading voice in Brazilian Protestantism today.
Interview: Celebrating 45 Years of Leadership in the Brazilian Evangelical Community
Time.news Editor: On January 6, 2025, pastor José Wellington Bezerra da Costa celebrated an incredible milestone of 45 years as president of the Ministry of Belém in São Paulo. How significant is this achievement in the context of Brazilian evangelical leadership?
Expert: This milestone is monumental, not just for Pastor Bezerra da Costa personally, but for the entire Brazilian evangelical community.Leading a large ministry for such an extended period reflects both resilience and adaptability, notably in navigating the evolving challenges within the religious landscape. His leadership during these years has undoubtedly shaped the direction of the Assemblies of God,contributing to its growth and prominence in Brazil.
time.news Editor: The event was part of the First General Assembly of Workers of the State Convention,bringing together various assembly leaders. What does this gathering signify for network building and collaboration among church leaders?
Expert: The gathering is a vital opportunity for networking and collaboration. such assemblies foster a sense of community among leaders and encourage the sharing of best practices and also resources. When leaders come together, they can strategize on outreach efforts and unify their missions, reinforcing their collective impact in Brazilian society.
Time.news Editor: At 90 years old, Pastor Bezerra da Costa has had a long and distinguished career. How has his leadership influenced the Assemblies of God in Brazil, particularly during his prior tenure as the leader of the General Convention of the Assemblies of God (CGADB)?
Expert: His influence has been profound. Under his leadership, the church expanded considerably, both in membership and administrative capability. He focused on strengthening the organizational structure, ensuring that the church could effectively reach new congregants while maintaining doctrinal integrity. His tenure ushered in an era of modernization, which allowed the Assemblies of God to establish a robust presence throughout Brazil and even internationally.
Time.news Editor: His legacy was honored by Pastor José Wellington Costa Junior, highlighting the inspiration he has been for generations.How critically important is the concept of legacy in church leadership?
Expert: Legacy is crucial in church leadership as it extends beyond the individual leader. A strong legacy inspires future generations of church workers and leaders, establishing a foundation based on integrity, service, and passion for the Gospel. When leaders intentionally pass down their values and experiences, they foster a culture of empowerment and mentorship, which sustains the church’s mission for years to come.
Time.news editor: The assembly included prayers, songs, and heartfelt tributes. What role do emotional and spiritual events like this play in reinforcing community ties among congregants?
Expert: emotional and spiritual events like this are essential for community cohesion. They provide a space for congregants to express gratitude and celebrate shared beliefs. Such gatherings strengthen bonds among participants,creating a sense of belonging and unity. They also serve as reminders of the church’s mission and the importance of collective worship, encouraging members to remain engaged and active in their faith journeys.
Time.news Editor: For readers interested in church leadership, what practical advice can you offer that stems from Pastor Bezerra da Costa’s long-standing presidency and the recent assembly?
Expert: one key piece of advice is the importance of adaptability. Church leaders should remain open to change and be willing to evolve their strategies to meet the needs of their congregations. additionally, fostering strong relationships within the community can enhance collaboration and support.Leaders should also prioritize mentoring younger generations, ensuring that the values and mission of the church endure as they transition to new leadership. Lastly, consistency in faith and active engagement are paramount in inspiring others and building a thriving community.