Keep Marching!
Perseverance, providence, and faithfulness in the history of the Presbyterian Church of Brazil.
1859 — 2026
Rev. Jader Santos
A reflection on perseverance, providence, and faithfulness in the history of the Presbyterian Church of Brazil.
On August 12, 2026, we celebrate 167 years of the Presbyterian Church of Brazil. As we look back on this history, we recognize God’s faithfulness throughout the generations.
In 1859, Ashbel Green Simonton arrived in Rio de Janeiro. At that moment, he could not have imagined the reach that Presbyterian work would eventually have in Brazil.
Yet the arrival of Presbyterianism was not the result of chance. Rather, we see the Lord’s providence guiding people, circumstances, and opportunities for the advancement of the gospel.
Therefore, remembering this history means more than simply looking back. It also means recognizing our responsibility to continue proclaiming God’s Word today.
“The Lord has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy.”PSALM 126:3
A History Marked by God’s Providence
From 1859 to our generation, the Lord continues to sustain and guide his church.
The Beginning of the Presbyterian Church in Brazil
Ashbel Green Simonton arrived in Rio de Janeiro as a young missionary. From a human perspective, his work seemed small in comparison with the challenges he would face.
However, God was already directing a much greater story. Simonton’s arrival marked the beginning of a work that would reach many generations.
Thus, the 167 years of the Presbyterian Church of Brazil remind us that great works often begin with small steps of obedience and faith.
The Legacy of Ashbel Green Simonton
Simonton left the comfort of his homeland to serve in a challenging context. Access to the Scriptures was limited, and religious opposition was significant.
Even so, he remained faithful. In a little more than seven years of ministry, he worked intensely for the advancement of the gospel in Brazil.
In addition, he took part in organizing the First Presbyterian Church of Rio de Janeiro, establishing the Imprensa Evangélica, training theological leaders, and organizing the first presbytery.
Therefore, his life teaches us that faithfulness should not be measured merely by the length of a ministry, but by obedience to God’s calling.
God Uses the Proclamation of the Gospel
Simonton understood an essential truth: God’s Word must be proclaimed.
Paul teaches that people need to hear in order to believe. For this reason, preaching remains central to the mission of the church.
Our responsibility is not to control the results. Instead, we are called to proclaim faithfully and trust in the sovereign work of the Lord.
“And how can they hear without someone preaching to them?”ROMANS 10:14
The Church Belongs to Christ
The history of the church does not depend on a single leader. Men pass away, and generations change.
Christ, however, remains. He is the cornerstone on which his church is built.
Therefore, the continuity of the Presbyterian Church of Brazil cannot be explained merely by human ability. God has sustained his people throughout history.
“Built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone.”EPHESIANS 2:20
167 Years Later, the Mission Continues
What do we, at the Presbyterian Church of Campo Belo, have to do with this history?
Absolutely everything.
We are part of the same church called to bear witness to Christ. Therefore, we should not look at the past merely with nostalgia.
The best way to honor those who came before us is to remain faithful to the same Savior they proclaimed.
The God who sustained his church in the past continues to sustain his church today.
Men pass away, and generations change. Contexts also change. Christ, however, continues to be the foundation and Head of the Church.
What Do 167 Years of the Presbyterian Church of Brazil Teach Our Generation?
The history we have received must continue to be lived, taught, and passed on.
Remain in the Word
We must study the Scriptures and grow in the knowledge of truth. In addition, we are called to pass the gospel on to future generations.
Worship God
The church exists for the glory of God. Therefore, our worship must remain centered on Christ and guided by his Word.
Proclaim the Gospel
We are also called to love our neighborhood, serve people, and make Jesus known. In this way, the mission continues in our generation.
“Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith.”HEBREWS 13:7
Keep Marching!
Celebrating the 167 years of the Presbyterian Church of Brazil means giving thanks for the past and recognizing God’s faithfulness. At the same time, it means embracing our responsibility to serve Christ today.
The journey of Simonton and so many other servants encourages us to continue proclaiming the gospel, making disciples, and serving the church with perseverance, firmly grounded in God’s grace and Word.
In the love of Christ,
Rev. Jader Santos
