Dynamic Duo

In this post I will tell you about (l-r) Cris and Marcio, the "dynamic duo." These two guys have been at the chácara for almost eight months. They are well on their way to recovery from substance abuse. Now they are serving as the two primary "obreiros" - assistants to Isaias, the director. They orient newcomers, give instructions, and help keep everyone on track in following the daily schedule. They bring to Isaias' attention any interpersonal problems that need to be resolved. They work very well together - in fact, sometimes they seem to me like long-lost brothers separated at birth!

Cris and Marcio are both in their early 20s. Cris worked as a day laborer, and Marcio has a mechanic's certification. Both are intelligent guys; Cris taught himself to speak English, and Marcio has studied things as diverse as philosophy and botany. Both made similar mistakes of getting involved with the wrong crowd (i.e prostiution, drug pushers) and literally fell into the gutter. Their families brought them here in January as a last-chance effort. They had never met before coming here, yet their friendship seems as if they've known each other all their life. They were baptized and are learning more and more of the Bible with each passing week. They are winning back the confidence of their families and have earned the respect of the other men with their right conduct and leadership.

Marcio and Cris have begun a new life in Christ, and they want to finish what they have started. Once they have passed the nine month mark, they will begin looking for jobs and transition out of the chácara and back into society. They would continue to live at the chácara at night and work during the day. Pray that they will stay firm in their faith, that doors of employment opportunity will open for them soon, and they will continue to be good examples for the rest of the brothers. Thank God for these two changed lives!