Leadership Development

Jeff and Laura have a ministry to couples through mentoring and evangelistic camps and retreats. They believe their work is vital because they have helped establish a growing, vibrant church that is in a location physically and socially where it can make a difference in Londrina. Also, they invest in strategic leaders who can multiply themselves and strengthen the Brazilian church. In addition, Jeff served as a pastor at Shalom Community church for 20 years and was responsible for leadership development, mentoring, leading Bible studies, counseling and preaching, and he was a professor at Londrina Bible Seminary (LBS). He also served as the president of the LBS board and as member. Laura coordinated the graduate programs in advanced marital counseling and Christian counseling for several years. She also serves as professor at Londrina Bible School and the graduate school, and she works as the Member Care coordinator, a counselor and in leadership development. 

After growing up in Brazil as the son of OMS missionaries, Jeff returned to the United States and attended Asbury College, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in 1986. In 1992, he completed his master’s degree in theological studies from Wheaton Graduate School, and he is now finishing a doctor of ministry degree in pastoral care and counseling. Laura earned her bachelor’s degree in Christian counseling from Berean University in 1996, and a master’s degree in clinical psychology in 1998 from Wheaton College Graduate School.

Jeff and Laura have two daughters: Katie and Kendra. Katie and her husband Thiago minister in Brazil to a youth group and to young married couples, and they are candidates for OMS Spain short-term missions. Kendra ministers through drama and discipleship and attends Taylor University. 

Missionary ID #801604