The worship music takes on a Brazilian rhythm, dancing is allowed in the auditorium, and drama groups usually perform during the worship services. The service is held in Portuguese and the message is unmistakably purpose driven.

At first sight, a visitor might think they were worshiping in South America, but First Brazilian Baptist Church (FBBC) in Pompano Beach, Fla., brings the flare of South America to south Florida.

Members of the FBBC have unique needs only known to immigrants. That’s why church leaders construct worship services that minister to individuals and families trying to make America their home.

“Our community is formed from immigrants with great material, emotional, and spiritual needs,” said Silair Almeida, pastor of First Brazilian Baptist Church. “We want everyone to find a family environment in the church. Since immigrants live away from relatives, they need a support group. Our church seeks to give this support. During our services, the songs and sermons, besides bringing encouragement and comfort, show that each person needs to have a personal experience with Jesus.”

The 11-year-old church also hosts a satellite Brazilian consulate once a week so that members who live 30 miles away from the church don’t have to drive to Miami for services. The church also ministers to immigrants through a project called “A Car for Everyone.” “People donate cars and we lend them to those in need,” Almeida explained. “Then they bring the car back when they are able to purchase their own.”

The social ministry of the church also offers clothes and food to those who need them. “We serve Sunday lunch and other meals to promote fellowship. We also offer opportunities for sports activities, especially soccer, which is a Brazilian passion.”

Almeida began using Purpose Driven resources in 1997 and said, “As a pastor, I changed my style of preaching and hundreds of people have been transformed.” Two years ago, the Sunday evening attendance was 1,000 and today it is 1,600.

“In 2005, we participated in the 40 Days of Purpose campaign. It was a landmark for our congregation,” he said. “We bought 1,000 books and gave them to each person. We made it a priority to help the church participate until the end. Many people testified to how God worked in their lives. There was an awakening for volunteer service. Our small groups almost doubled.”

When Hurricane Wilma hit south Florida, Broward County was heavily affected. Several people in their community had serious problems with their houses and thousands were without power, water, and phone service for days.

“Our staff had a mission trip scheduled to China, but we postponed it so that we could assist our people,” he added. “For two weeks, we served around 4,000 hot meals, besides helping some individuals with their insurance issues. We counseled hundreds of people.”

The church will begin the 40 Days of Community campaign in August and Almeida said he shares the Purpose Driven model everywhere he goes. “I have had the opportunity to speak in several cities in Florida and in Brazil about purpose driven churches. In October 2005, we had the privilege to host the first Purpose Driven church seminar in Portuguese in the United States. We had more than 200 registered that included several pastors from more than 20 denominations.”

At FBBC, new believers are incorporated into the church quickly and are challenged to be baptized. They also are encouraged to participate in a small family group and discipleship classes. “We offer two classes to help their spiritual growth,” Almeida said, adding that 500 people are involved with discipleship ministries.

Members also find service opportunities through frequent ministry fairs. “We have even taken several members of our church on mission trips,” Almeida added. “By 2006, we had been to China and the Amazon, visiting one of the biggest tribes in Brazil. In our church, each member is a servant of Jesus Christ.”

Ministering to their community in the name of Jesus Christ is the standard at First Brazilian Baptist Church. “Undoubtedly, God has blessed our ministry,” the pastor said.

All 2006 Church Health Award winner information is correct as of Jan. 1, 2006.