Araujo Francisco appointed an evangelist

By Theo Sesinyi

“In the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who will judge the living and the dead, and in view of His appearing and His Kingdom, I give you this charge: Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction.” (2 Timothy 4:1-2) 

The appointment of Araujo Francisco as an evangelist during the 21^st birthday service of the Johannesburg church moved not only him but many to tears. Araujo and Ilse Francisco who now lead the Maputo church have been an inspiration to many disciples in Johannesburg and in other parts of Africa.

Araujo came to South Africa in 1995 from Angola to be trained as a terrorist. During that same year he was arrested.  On the weekend he was released prison he was invited to church. Shortly after that he was baptized into Christ. He has since planted the church in Luanda, Angola. He then came back to South Africa to help start the Portuguese ministry in Pretoria, went back to lead the church in Angola and was sent from there to help lead the Maputo church where him and his wife continue to do an incredible job. 

Some of the words used by Ivor Botha as he appointed him were “From prison to prophet, God called you to change the history of Southern Africa”. The events of that day seem very much like a chapter that was written in the Bible. Through the appointing of Araujo, the dreams of many have been renewed. Our faith and hope have been strengthened, because once again we are reminded that God can use anyone if they avail themselves to the Spirit. 

In the Central East region of the Johannesburg Church of Christ we are indebted in many ways to the way that Araujo and his wife have served us. 

Araujo and Ilse congratulations! And to God be the glory!