January - February 2026 // Update
We are Back!!!
We hope your year is off to a great start! Ours has been wonderful. We began the year still in Nebraska finishing up our trip. We thoroughly enjoyed our time there, but once we returned to Portugal, we realized we had been gone a little too long. We truly missed it here and loved reconnecting with all the people God has placed in our lives.
Rain Rain Go Away
This winter (January and February), Portugal experienced several major storms, many bringing extremely strong winds and significant damage — especially in the central part of the country. These storms produced an incredible amount of rain and caused flooding in many areas.
In previous years, the average rainfall for the entire month of February in the Lisbon area has been about 2.6 inches. This February, some areas of Portugal received 9.8 inches of rain in just seven days.
Please pray for the many people affected — for their homes, businesses, and communities. Several people lost their lives, including a firefighter. Pray for comfort for grieving families and for a fresh outpouring of God’s Spirit, that many would turn to the Lord during this difficult season.
In early February, we had the opportunity to help collect water and raise funds, which we delivered to one of the storm-devastated regions. It was encouraging to connect with believers there who are faithfully reaching people with the gospel while also helping meet practical needs during this crisis.
NewLife International Church Update
As we have shared before, God has led us to begin an international English-speaking church in Montijo. As has often been the case on this journey, His ways are not our ways. We are seeking to remain sensitive to the Lord’s leading as we plant this church here in Europe.
Our goal is to begin hosting regional Bible fellowships next week. The primary purpose of these gatherings is to connect with others God has brought to this area who may desire to partner with us in planting this church. Please pray that God would clearly lead, guide, and stir hearts.
New Experiences Ahead
We are also excited to be teaching English as a Second Language classes during March, April, and May. One of our closest missionary friends here in Portugal has faithfully served for over 40 years. They have been such a tremendous blessing in our lives. One of their ministries is an ESL outreach, and we will be filling in while they are on furlough in the United States.
We have already begun helping in the classes, and this is such a meaningful opportunity. Many non-believers participate, giving us the chance to build relationships and gently point them toward Christ. This is certainly more of Mary’s gifting — and I’m just hoping I don’t get into too much trouble being back in English class! It can’t be worse than the first time around 30 years ago. 😬
Old Experiences Continue
One final prayer request: We will be restarting our couples’ marriage courses in March. This ministry has been a tremendous blessing and revealed a deep need and desire among Portuguese couples to strengthen their marriages. Please pray for wisdom, unity, and open hearts.
Thank you, as always, for your love and partnership. We are praying for you as you enter this spring season.
Together for the Gospel, walking in the Spirit,
Billy and Mary
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https://www.proclaimmissions.com/blog/1st-year-in-portugal-video