A few years ago, we met Fernando and Júlio, two young men passionate about God and remarkably willing to serve. They worked with us as Bible workers in southern Mozambique, assisting with Bible studies and discipleship, and planting two churches. The time came when we felt we should take the next step: sending them to study at the School of Theology. Today, they are students at the Adventist University of Mozambique (UAM) in Beira and share their experiences with us each month. This article is based on their reports from the first semester—stories that show God’s hand guiding each step.
For Fernando, arriving in Beira was a cultural, spiritual and emotional leap. The city’s linguistic diversity surprised him—languages like Chisena, Chindau, Chimanawa and Chimaswabu are spoken among the locals, creating a rich yet challenging environment for someone coming from another region. With patience, he learned to greet others in one of the local languages, even without knowing which one it was.
Júlio, on the other hand, faced challenges as soon as he arrived: financial limitations and the loss of a bucket containing food were the first obstacles. But God provided. A friend of Fernando’s helped them, offering transport and meals at just the right moment—something Júlio describes as being “fed like Elijah by the ravens.”
The first weeks were marked by sleeping on mats and constantly battling local unsanitary conditions. Even so, both recognized God’s providence in every detail. Reuniting with friends, such as Pastor Francisco, brought relief and spiritual guidance. Meeting people like Sister Fernanda and Maestro Salésio also created a sense of family far from home.
At the university church, Fernando and Júlio were entrusted with responsibilities. Fernando was elected Sabbath school director and a member of the organizing committee for an upcoming major evangelistic campaign. Júlio was ordained as a deacon and appointed as an assistant director of mission outreach—a rare achievement for a first-year student. He also became the church choir’s treasurer and has been actively involved in evangelism, cleaning the facilities with other students, welcoming members and organizing communion services.
Academic life brought its own challenges. Hebrew, with its right-to-left writing and unfamiliar symbols, was a real trial for both. Still, Fernando sees the subject as a hidden blessing, while Júlio acknowledges the effort it requires, but also rejoices in not having to worry about tuition fees thanks to your support.
Fernando began giving private English lessons, walking nearly 20 km (12.4 miles) a week to teach. Júlio, who trained as a teacher, was invited by local community members to instruct their children. These extra activities not only help financially but have also opened doors for friendship and mission.
The community where they live has become a school in itself. Initially seen as outsiders, Fernando and Júlio are now more accepted. Although there are still security concerns, such as attempted break-ins, these two young men bear witness to God’s constant protection.
During the university’s Week of Prayer, Fernando led his group’s prayer room. Meanwhile, Júlio was elected class leader after the previous leader stepped down. This role required him to mediate conflicts and further develop leadership skills that he had been cultivating as a Bible worker, but had never had to use so intensively.
A Calling Confirmed
Despite difficulties such as fragile health, culture shock and scarce resources, both testify that God’s hand has never stopped guiding them. God is shaping them not only as theologians but also as spiritual leaders, missionaries and husbands. Fernando and his fiancée, Lizete, though separated by distance, are participating in a pre-marriage counseling course. Fernando has also been spending time with Júlio, praying and planning.
Fernando and Júlio are not just adapting and overcoming challenges; they are living with purpose. As we follow their reports and hear their voices over the phone, we are certain that the decision to send them to UAM was God-led. Thanks to your support, our mission partners, their story continues to be written.
Join us in reaching the unreached in Mozambique. Scan the QR code and click the “Give to this project” button or contact AFM, letting them know that you would like to become a sponsor of the Tonga-Mozambique team, Geovan and Daniele Machú.
