In 1975 young people of the church in Brasilia where Ernesto was Pastor went out into the streets to talk to people about Jesus and discovered people in desperate physical need. They accepted that the Gospel they preached was also a call to action and Ernesto set up the Assistência Social Evangélica de Brasília. Little did he realise then that two years later in 1977 ASEB would be asked to come to the rescue of over 80 ill-treated and abused youngsters … and Betel Children’s Home would be founded to receive them.

It was the founding of ASEB 35 years ago that was celebrated in Brasilia this year on Saturday May 15^th. Friends donated the use of the Rotary Club premises along with food for 200 guests, which included some who had been involved from the beginning, and also the cost of a commemorative booklet. Carlos and Ana had planned an informative programme, chaired by Ronaldo, one of the original 83 (photographed with his two sons), with a display of photos & a power point presentation, a performance by the Betel dance group and tributes from a variety of supporters some of whom received certificates for special services rendered. Of particular interest were contributions from a number of ex-Betelites; Farias who has his own catering-for-special-occasions company which cooked and served the meal; Jorge who is responsible for stocking the Seven Boys supermarket chain stores in three major cities; Alfredo a telecommunications technician who is applying to read Chemistry with a view to becoming a lecturer in the subject. It was also very encouraging to meet a number of ex Betelites with their partners and children. In his speech of thanks, Ernesto made special mention of Josefina’s partnership with him in all that had been accomplished over so many years. She has recently been having treatment for osteoporosis in her knees but her mobility remains very restricted and it looks as though an operation will be necessary.

May 15th was also Ernesto’s 67^th birthday. In addition to Farias’ cake in the evening, the occasion was marked with cake and ice-cream at lunchtime for the youngsters at Betel.

The joy of the Saturday celebrations was sadly overshadowed a few days later with the news that one of Betel’s longest standing helpers had been killed by a speeding motorist as she was crossing the road. Derley, seen here with Eriton and Jorge at the celebration, had been converted during Ernesto’s pastoral ministry and, amongst other things, had served as a cook at Betel’s Brasilia base. Aged 64 she had recently become one of ASEB’s board members