Chadash, which means "renewal" or "restoration" in Hebrew, ministers to women who are involved in a life of prostitution. The ministry’s goal is to win these women to Jesus, nourish them with good fellowship and discipleship (MDA), and free them forever from the bondage of prostitution.
With financial assistance from Samaritan's Purse Canada, PAZ launched Chadash in January 2004, in the city of Guajará-Mirim, which straddles the border between Brazil and Bolivia; a city notorious for prostitution and drug trafficking.
Expanding: The New Chadash Building in Guajará-Mirim
Chadash offers courses in English, Spanish, computers and a variety of crafts. The skills acquired in these classes provide women with an ethical way to make a living (similar to the Mary & Martha Ministry in Santarém). Prayer is held during each class, and a Bible study each week. Chadash also plans special programs geared towards evangelizing and building relationships with the students.
Since the students tend to give more value to things they pay for, a small fee is charged for each class. However, scholarships are offered to women who do not have the means to pay. We periodically hold graduation ceremonies for our students, awarding them certificates of completion.
The First Baptism involving serveral girls from Chadash
People from the local PAZ church also get involved with the ministry, building friendships, evangelizing, inviting the women to weekly cell groups and church services.
It is amazing how many people from the community—believers and nonbelievers alike—enjoy just coming into the reception area at Chadash and talking with the staff. Chadash offers them peace and a sense of security. For many girls, it's the first time they've ever been truly valued. People know they are welcome to just come in and share anything that's going on in their lives. We thank God that He is using Chadash and our presence in Guajará-Mirim to change lives!
