Weaving a Masterpiece

In Spring 2008 the MB Mission church plant in Massama, Portugal began a ladies’ craft night as a way to get to know the women in the neighborhood and share the word of God. They decided to learn Arraiolos, an old form of Portuguese tapestry.

MB Mission Church Planter Marjorie Ekk and the ministry team in Massama invited all of the women they knew in hopes that a few would come. God brought a variety of women to the craft nights who were all interested in learning Arraiolos. As they continue to meet together weekly to weave fabrics and colors, God is weaving a story of beauty and healing into one special woman.

This woman is different. The very first craft night she entered the room with a big smile but did not say anything. At first glance one might believe she is mentally incapable of working on a hand craft, but the group of women welcomed her to sit in anyway. Many had heard her story. For years she was severely beaten by her husband, and because of her nationality and ethnicity, she was rejected by others.

This lady, Odete, was handed material and yarn like the rest of the group and they all began to learn together. Each week she would show up with her big silent smile and more of her tapestry completed. To everyone’s amazement her handiwork was beautiful. Each week she would work alongside the circle of women and listen as they read a devotional and prayed together. As the weeks progressed Odete began to greet the ladies with some words and answer them when they would ask her questions. With unconditional love and encouragement, this special lady is blossoming in front of their eyes. Odete has begun attending the bible study on Sundays, and although she has not yet made a verbal confession of faith, the Holy Spirit is at work in her life. Much like the tapestry being woven together, God is creating a beautiful masterpiece, stitch by stitch.

Pray for Odete and for the Massama church plant in Portugal. Ask God to reveal Himself to all of the women in the craft group, that they might become beacons of light in their home and amongst their community.

“He who began a good work in your will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”
Philippians 1:6